Homeowners can choose from a variety of materials for their plumbing needs. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks that you should research.
Copper Pipes: The “Gold” Standard
Copper, a durable and long-lasting plumbing material, is very popular. Copper fittings should be used for copper pipes. They will need to be soldered or crimped together. Although they may be able to use brass or PVC fittings for copper pipes, they will need to ensure that the fit is perfect and will not corrode.
Copper is a common option for plumbing. However, homeowners may not prefer it for certain reasons. This metal tends to be more costly, which can raise the overall cost of the project. Copper is great for fires but can freeze pipes. Over time, pipes can be damaged by highly acidic water. Leakage can result from pipes that are not the right thickness, especially if they are underground.
PVC Pipes – Affordable But Limited
PVC pipe is a tough material that can be used for limited plumbing purposes. This type of plastic has a rigid shape and is very durable. PVC piping is not bendable so homeowners will need to buy fittings just like copper pipes. PVC is often the cheapest option and is readily available in stores. It is usually available in various widths and lengths, suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
PVC can be installed quickly by homeowners who can easily cut it and connect it with no soldering. This makes it more sustainable. It is not suitable for high temperatures and should not be used in hot or drinking water.
Types And Applications Of Fittings In Home Plumbing
There are many fittings homeowners might encounter in their plumbing. Many are simple to install while others require special tools. The likelihood of your plumbing not leaking or corroding increases if you know how to properly use them.
Solder Fittings – Higher-Effort, But Strong
Soldering and fitting is the most difficult process in Plumbing installation but it creates solid connections. This method is often used for copper pipes. You will need to know how to solder:
Soldering Material
Soldering or sweating pipes involves heating the pipe to heat the soldering material so that it flows into the pipe between the fitting and pipe. This creates a leak-proof connection.
Screw Fittings: Diy-Friendly
Threaded fittings are also known as screw fittings. They use threads to attach pipes and fittings. These fittings require no special tools or equipment and are the easiest to install for homeowners. To prevent leakage from certain pipes and fixtures, a plumber’s tape may be used.
Crimp Fittings: Ideal For Large Projects
Crimp fittings allow homeowners to connect PEX piping pieces or use soldering without the need to solder with copper. To make the fitting watertight, plumber Castle Hill simply needs to insert the pipe and use a clamping tool. A crimping instrument can be quite expensive, so it is practical for larger projects but not as useful for smaller repairs.
Push Fittings – Easy, But Expensive
Push fittings have been a popular choice for DIY projects due to their simplicity. However, they can also be quite expensive. The connector snaps into place, creating a watertight seal. It is easy to take out the connector for minor repairs and maintenance.
Compression Fittings: An Alternative To Solder
These compression fittings are a great alternative to soldering for homeowners who don’t want to use them. They can withstand high water pressure without cracking. A compression fitting is made up of a screw and ferrule. When compressed together they create a tight seal. This isn’t permanent, unlike soldering, and can be disengaged quickly. This can increase the risk of leakage over time, especially if pipes are flexible or move.
