While indoor plumbing has been around for a long time, the types of materials used in plumbing applications have gone through many changes˳ Learn about the different types of plastic pipes Ace has in stock, then browse our large selection of PVC piping˳
Benefits of Using Plastic Pipes
PVC pipes have many benefits and may often be preferred over other types of piping options˳ To help you decide on the right type of plumbing pipes for your next project, here are a few benefits of using plastic pipes:
- Corrosion-resistant: PVC piping isn’t subject to corrosion from water and household chemicals˳ The formulas used in plastic water pipes are often adjusted to stand up to the demands of an array of residential plumbing needs, including drainage and water supply˳
- Hassle-free Installation: Unlike metal pipes that require soldering upon installation, plastic water pipes are lightweight, easy to handle and relatively cost-effective˳
- Low Heat Conductivity: Unlike metal pipes, plastic pipes don’t conduct much heat˳ Their low heat conductivity makes them better equipped to maintain consistent temperatures when transporting water˳
- Moisture Resistant: PVC pipes also stay dry even without insulation, which is incredibly helpful for moisture-prone applications like boilers and air conditioning condensation drains˳
- Flexible Designs: Abrasion-resistant and long-lasting, flexible PVC tubing is incredibly easy to install and perfect for uses where rigid plastic tubes are impractical or undesirable˳
Despite their many benefits, it is important to consider the potential downside of using plastic tubing˳ Plastic pipes can be sensitive to sunlight, meaning they can become brittle when in the sun for extended periods if they are not buried or properly treated˳
PVC Pipes: Schedule 40 vs Schedule 80
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes offer great performance, flexibility, durability and affordability˳ The two main types of PVC pipes are schedule 40 and schedule 80˳ Schedule 40 PVC pipes have thinner walls than schedule 80˳ Other PVC pipes may have different schedule numbers, and the higher the number, the thicker the wall of the pipe˳ PVC pipes with thick pipe walls can handle more flowing water safely˳
Choosing Between PEX and PVC Pipes
Cross-linked polyethylene pipes, also known as PEX pipes, are one of the most popular plastic pipe types used today˳ Polyethylene pipes are often installed in place of copper pipes or used as a more flexible alternative to other types of plastic pipes, like PVC˳ These pipes can deliver both cold and hot water, and they’re known for their versatility, ease of fitting, low price points and their ability to maintain consistent water pressure˳
However, PEX plastic pipes can be more expensive than PVC pipes, and will not tolerate UV exposure nearly as well˳ This places a limit on how you can use it for home improvement projects, as PEX piping is not suitable for above-ground outdoor installation˳ What’s more, unlike PVC piping, PEX is not eco-friendly, meaning you are unable to recycle it at the end of its life˳
Shop PVC Pipes at Ace Hardware
The importance of a successful home plumbing system cannot be overstated˳ We offer a variety of PVC piping and other plastic tubing from brands like Charlotte Pipe and Bk Products to help you take care of your plumbing needs˳ Whether you need a simple replacement or are undertaking a complete renovation, find the PVC piping you need at your local Ace Hardware store˳
