The material of your pipes may cause avoidable issues like leaking pipes or other serious plumbing problems. When installing new plumbing in your home, ensure you choose pipes that will last a long time, withstand the freezing Idaho winters, and handle most of the common underground issues, like subtly shifting land caused by the small earthquakes and floods common to the area.
At Express, our team is experienced in all things plumbing, including the pros and cons of the different materials commonly used in plumbing systems throughout Idaho, such as galvanized steel pipes, copper pipes, and PEX pipes. Read on for a plumbing pipe comparison that’ll give you the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.
Understanding the Contenders: Galvanized Steel, Copper, and PEX
The following are the most commonly used Idaho pipe pros and cons to help you choose the best material for your needs and budget.
Galvanized steel
Galvanized steel pipes are coated with zinc to prevent rusting. They were the most popular choice in homes built before the 1960s as a safer alternative to lead pipes.
This pipe type has a long lifespan, lasting between 40 and 100 years, but they tend to accumulate mineral deposits. They’re prone to rusting and corrosion, which can cause an unpleasant taste or discoloration in the home’s water supply, rust in the water, or leaks. If your home has failing galvanized steel pipes, consider replacing them with a more modern option like copper or PEX.
Copper
Copper pipes are a good choice for homeowners looking for a long-lasting option. They last an average of 50 years but require maintenance and care to avoid corrosion, scale buildup, and bursting in freezing temperatures.
Copper piping is rigid and needs to be cut to size and soldered together, so it can take time to install properly. Only an experienced plumber should install your copper pipes.
PEX
PEX pipe is made from cross-linked high-density polyethylene. Its predicted lifespan is between 25 and 50 years, depending on the manufacturer and how it’s being used (although some plumbers find it fails prematurely in some cases). PEX is corrosion-resistant and less likely to have scale buildup than its metallic counterparts.
While PEX is made from plastic, it’s BPA-free and has been approved by NSF/ANSI standards to be safe for all uses, including transporting hot and cold drinking water and withstanding a high amount of water pressure. It’s more resistant to bursting in freezing conditions than metal because the material is more flexible and can expand and contract.
Its flexibility also means it can bend, which may save you money in material costs, as you can reduce the number of connection points during installation.
Lifespan and Durability Showdown
When it comes to pipe durability and pipe lifespan, your old galvanized steel pipes may seem like the clear winner, as they’re known to last for up to 100 years (although most have a lifespan of around 50 years). The issue is that these pipes tend to disintegrate from the inside out, causing reduced water pressure, restricted water flow, leaks or ruptures, and the potential for water damage to your home.
Copper has a proven track record for being durable and reliable and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It’s resistant to UV rays and won’t easily corrode, even when exposed to harsh chemicals and solvents.
While PEX is safe and works well in certain situations, it may not be the best choice if you’re looking for the longest pipe lifespan. PEX isn’t suitable for rocky soil or soil with lots of debris. Underground connections usually need extra protection, like silicone tape.
PEX pipes are highly susceptible to damage from UV rays and can crack or fall apart, making them a poor choice for outdoor use. They’ve also been known to degrade quickly when exposed to certain chemicals, acidic substances, or harsh drain cleaners and solvents.
Cost Comparison
Galvanized steel pipes tend to be the most expensive option and can be costly to install and repair. Copper can be a costly material, but it may still be a good choice if you value durability and reliability.
PEX is generally the most cost-effective option for plumbing pipes, but concerns about its long-term efficacy may affect your home’s resale value, especially after a few decades.
Maintenance and Repair Considerations
All piping eventually needs maintenance or repair for issues like cracking, rusting, or corrosion. Boise is known for having fairly hard water, meaning residents also have to worry about mineral deposit build-up, which affects metal pipes more than PEX.
If you’re in the Boise area, call Express Plumbing for pipe maintenance, inspections, repairs, or replacements. We’ll keep your family’s water clean and safe, no matter the type of piping.
Which Pipe Is Best for Your Home?
There’s no right or wrong answer for which pipe is best for your Boise home repiping job, but this pipe material comparison should give you a better idea of what type of pipe you want to use in your renovation or new build.
If you’re still unsure, contact Express Plumbing and a professional plumber will discuss your options with you. We’ll go over the pros and cons of each type of pipe and help you decide the best fit for your project, future needs, and budget.
Contact Express Plumbing Today
Need pipe installation, repair, or advice on which type of pipe to choose? Contact Express Plumbing today to schedule a service call with an expert. We offer helpful financing options so you can replace older leaking pipes or upgrade your home now. We offer high-quality service at a fair price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should I consider when choosing plumbing pipes for my home?
Consider the longevity and reliability of the pipe material while making sure it’s suitable for the placement and job. For example, PEX degrades under UV light and can’t tolerate sunlight exposure.
Are there any health or safety concerns associated with different types of pipes?
Yes. If you have older galvanized steel pipes, you’ll likely need to replace them to avoid rust and scale seeping into your drinking water. Replace older lead pipes immediately to eliminate the serious risk of lead poisoning.
