Plumbing systems can differ from one structure to another, and so can their specific plumbing problems. Stainless steel pipes have unique properties that make them very useful compared to the other pipe options. In this article, you will learn about the different stainless steel pipes along with copper, PVC, and galvanized steel so that you can make the appropriate decision regarding your plumbing system.
The mixture of steel with specific elements, including chromium, results in an alloy known as stainless steel. Its name itself indicates a positive steel pipe characteristic, as it does not corrode or rust. These traits make these pipes very useful in commercial and residential plumbing applications. Due to their exceptional resistance, durability, and strength, stainless steel pipes retain their integrity over prolonged use at elevated pressures and extreme heat.
Stainless Steel vs PVC Pipes: A Comprehensive Review
Without a doubt, the most commonly used type of pipe in plumbing jobs today is a PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe. A major reason for this is its low price, as well as being one of the easiest pipes to work with. However, like everything else, PVC has its drawbacks when matching it to stainless steel pipes. PVC can get brittle over the years when exposed to the sun, ultimately harming the pipe and causing leaks. In addition, PVC is not recommended for hot water usage, as the high temperatures will ultimately cause warping and deformation of the pipe. With stainless steel pipes, there is not loss of strength under high temperature situations. This allows stainless steel pipes to easily outperform PVC pipes when dealing with plumbing systems that require hot water transport.
Copper Pipes Benefits and Pitfalls
Older generations have always used copper pipes when plumbing a house as it has two main advantages: it has an antimicrobial feature while also being an excellent conductor of heat. These two are not without their setbacks however, as stainless steel and PVC pipes are at a much lower price range than copper pipes. Along with it, copper pipes also have the setback of corrosion due to acidic water, which will lead to leakages and low water quality. Although copper does have its perks, stainless steel pipes are a much superior choice in areas where the water quality is lacking.
Galvanized Steel Pipes: A Comparison
The steel pipes are first categorized because of their coating. Coated with zinc, the galvanized steel pipes are coated to prevent rusting. However, such treatment may wear off in over time, thus exposing the steel to corrosion. Resulting in leaks and mineral deposit buildups within the pipes that lead to reduced water flow. Unlike galvanized steel pipes, the stainless steel pipes do not require coating because they do not corrode. This protection makes them a more dependable choice for plumbing systems, especially in areas with hard water, where minerals can quickly corrode other types of pipes.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Plumbing
In essence, while each piping material has its pros and cons, stainless steel pipes have unmatched unparalleled durability, corrosion resistance and versatility. They can be used for most of the plumbing applications ranging from residential to industrial, and the longevity translate to an overall long term value. As it comes to decide the plumbing needs, purchasing stainless steel pipes will translate to less repairs required, improved water quality and most importantly, peace of mind.
The trend towards using strong and eco-friendly plumbing materials is on the rise. Modern plumbing systems prefer to use stainless steel piping because it can be recycled and lasts a long time. Also, better manufacturing techniques are decreasing the cost of stainless steel pipes making them more accepted as the plumbing solution.