What material should I use to repipe my home?

Repiping plumbing lines in your home is a big job – and it’s a job you want to get right. But the range of plumbing pipe materials to choose from can make it confusing. Here we look at some of the characteristics of the major pipe types to help you choose the right pipe for your plumbing.

Uponor PEX - A

A standard, cost-effective repipe is PEX repiping. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is the newest pipe for residential use. Approved in many regions of the country, PEX is relatively easy for a plumber to install because it cuts easily, is flexible, and uses compression fittings. Permanent connections are created using a unique crimping tool. We recommend PEX for Houston repipe work because its flexibility makes it easy to insert in existing water line pathways with less wall destruction. Our specialists only use high-quality PEX for your repipe. PEX is the more affordable and contemporary option for repiping. We only use the best PEX materials, Uponor's lead-free plumbing system from inlet to the faucet, providing you and your family a safe, clean, and healthy system for transporting water. Learn more about repipes and the repiping process.

PVC piping

This white or cream-colored pipe is the most commonly used pipe for drain lines. PVC pipes are often used for the main water supply to your home, as well as the home sinks, toilet, and bathtub drain lines or vent stacks. It’s durable, untouchable by chemicals, and seems to last forever! Drawbacks are it can’t be used for hot water as it warps when exposed to heat and the concerns over effects on drinking water and the environment.

CPVC piping

Similar to PVC but is heat resistant and eliminate the drinking water concerns. If this material is frozen, it splits, requiring complete replacement.

Copper Piping

Copper pipe resists corrosion, so it’s commonly used pipe in water supply lines. It costs more expensive than PVC, but it lasts! There are two common types of copper pipe:

Rigid copper comes in three thicknesses. Type M is the thinnest but is durable enough for most homes. Types L and Type K are thicker and used in outdoor and drain applications. To cut rigid copper, you’ll need a wheel cutter, tube cutter, or a hacksaw. Pipes are usually connected with soldered (sweat) fittings and compression fittings can connect the plumbing to shut-off valves.

Flexible copper, which is often used for dishwashers, refrigerator icemakers, and other appliances that need a water supply. It’s easy to bend, but if it kinks, you must cut the piece off and replace it. Sections of flexible copper pipe are joined using either soldered or compression fittings.

The primary drawbacks in using copper is the significantly higher price tag due to the material itself and the increased labored required for installation. Copper requires more wall destruction during a repipe.

Do you still have questions? Call and speak to an expert 832-819-8337.

Are You Looking for a Reliable Repipe Company to Replace Your Plumbing?

The experts at We Do Repipes Inc can help you discover your repiping options. A whole-house repipe will permanently eliminate these plumbing issues.

Our whole house repipe services includes:

• pulling permits

• a professional repipe by repipe experts

• removing old accessible pipes

• wall repair

When the plumbing repipe work is done, we also provide wall patching, texturing, and painting. We leave your home looking like we were never there. Call us today for a consultation and a no obligation quote. Call 832-819-8337.