Performing your own home plumbing projects can save you a lot of money and give you the satisfaction of a job well done. In order to achieve these outcomes, though, you need to ensure that you use the right tools and materials to do the job. With so many different plumbing materials to choose from, this first step can be quite a challenge. To help you succeed with your plumbing projects, here are some tips on what makes the best plumbing materials for DIY home plumbing projects.
PVC
The standard for many plumbing projects, PVC pipes perform admirably under a variety of conditions. Since these pipes are made from plastic, you don’t have to worry about rust or corrosion, which can be an issue with other types of plumbing materials. PVC pipes work especially well when used as drain pipes because they allow you to install long pipe runs at a nominal cost.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel might not be the first material you consider when you think of plumbing projects. However, when it comes to the connections between pipes and fixtures, stainless steel is one of your best bets. Stainless steel valves do a great job at resisting rust and corrosion, which is crucial when you need the valves to work for years, sometimes in emergency conditions. Another good aspect of stainless steel is that it looks good, meaning that if your plumbing project is visible, it won’t be an eyesore.
Copper
There’s a reason you’ll see at least some copper piping in most homes: it is excellent at the job that it does. Copper piping works especially well as supply lines because it isn’t bothered by changes in water temperature. It is also good at resisting corrosion, meaning your supply lines won’t be blocked, even if you have hard water. On top of that, copper is fairly easy to solder, allowing you to create custom configurations to fit your unique space.
PEX
When it comes to ease-of-use, there are few materials as effective as PEX. PEX is a flexible piping material that allows you to easily lay out your desired configuration before putting it in place. Even if you make a mistake, PEX pipe is quite forgiving, meaning it is a good material for someone new to plumbing projects. Due to its formulation, PEX piping is rated to last years longer than copper piping, meaning you won’t have to worry about replacement for a long time to come.
In some cases, there may be state or city laws concerning the types of materials you use for your plumbing projects. Therefore, before you begin, it’s a good idea to research these laws so that you don’t have to undo the work that you’ve already completed. Once you figure out the best materials to use and the laws pertaining to those materials, you’ll be well on your way to a finished plumbing project.