METAL OR PLASTIC? NEW WATER PIPE INSTALLATION IN SOLANA BEACH

Pipes are a vital part of any Solana Beach home’s plumbing system. Pipes transport clean potable drinking water from a municipal water supply or well into a home and remove wastewater and products from the home, delivering them to a septic tank or sewer main for processing. Water pipes are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but age, corrosion, and other factors may necessitate the new water pipe installation in Solana Beach, CA.

1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration offers new water pipe installation in Solana Beach. We can replace your old, damaged pipes or extend your home’s piping system to incorporate a new bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor patio. We’re even available 24/7 for emergency plumbing repairs in Solana Beach in the event a pipe fails and starts to leak.

When it comes to choosing new water pipes, homeowners have two options: metal or plastic pipes. There are several factors to consider when deciding between the two, such as installation, environmental conditions, cost, and longevity. In this blog, we’re going to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of metal vs. plastic water pipes.

METAL WATER PIPES

Water pipes have traditionally been made from materials like copper, lead, and galvanized steel. Copper is the most widely used for residential plumbing today, while galvanized steel is more common in older homes. Lead pipes are no longer used but may still be found in older homes.

The advantages of metal pipes include:

• Durability and longevity. Copper and steel are both resistant to corrosion and can last for decades (50+ years). They are particularly durable in high-pressure systems and can withstand extreme temperatures.
• Heat resistance. Metal pipes can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for hot water distribution without deforming or breaking down over time.
• Non-permeable. Metal pipes do not allow external contaminants (e.g., chemicals or gasses) to penetrate the piping, ensuring clean water flow, which is especially critical for drinking water. Copper has natural antimicrobial properties that help prevent bacteria from growing inside the pipes, reducing the risk of bacterial contamination in water.
• Structural integrity. Metal pipes are rigid and offer more support in longer runs without the need for as much bracing as plastic pipes. This makes them useful for larger buildings or high-rise structures.

There are some disadvantages to metal water pipes. Metal pipes are generally more expensive than plastic ones. They’re heavier and require more labor to install, including specialized fittings and soldering, which increases the time and cost of installation.

PLASTIC WATER PIPES

Many local homeowners are choosing to go plastic for their new water pipe installation in Solana Beach. Common types of plastic pipes include PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride), **PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene), and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). There are many advantages to installing plastic water pipes, such as:

• Lower costs. Plastic pipes are generally more affordable than metal pipes, both in terms of material costs and labor for installation. They’re lightweight, easy to cut, and require fewer tools and specialized skills for installation compared to metal pipes. Plastic pipes often use push-fit connectors or simple glue joints, which are quicker and easier to work with.
• Corrosion resistance. Plastic pipes do not corrode, rust, or scale over time, making them ideal for areas where water may be slightly acidic or prone to corrosion issues. This makes them a good choice for plumbing systems in homes with hard or soft water.
• Flexibility. PEX pipes, in particular, are highly flexible, allowing them to be bent around corners without the need for many joints or fittings. This flexibility reduces the risk of leaks and speeds up installation.
• Low thermal conductivity. Plastic pipes do not conduct heat as easily as metal pipes, meaning they retain the temperature of the water better, reducing energy loss in hot water systems. They are also less prone to freezing in cold climates.

What about disadvantages? While plastic pipes are durable, they may not have the same lifespan as metal pipes. PVC and CPVC are brittle and can be vulnerable to cracking, especially when exposed to freezing temperatures or UV light over time. PEX tends to be more resilient but may not last as long in extreme environments.

Certain chemicals in the water or external environment can degrade some plastic pipes over time. Many types of plastic are not suitable for high-temperature applications, and they may warp or fail if exposed to water temperatures above their rated limits. Plastic pipes can also be permeable, allowing small amounts of oxygen or other gasses to pass through the pipe wall, affecting water quality.

NEW WATER PIPE INSTALLATION IN SOLANA BEACH SINCE 2012

1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration has been providing expert new water pipe installation in Solana Beach and surrounding communities since 2012. Our team of licensed Solan Beach plumbers have the tools and training to repair, replace, or install just about any type of metal or plastic water pipe. Let us help you make the right choice based on your needs, location, and budget.

Call us at 866-437-0205 or contact us online to learn more about our new water pipe installation in Solana Beach services and receive a free quote.