The Different Types of Materials for Plumbing Fittings

The plumbing system in your house can contain different materials for different uses. Which type you find for which application depends on the age of your home and plumbing system. Let’s explore a few of the different types of materials for plumbing fittings you can find in your home.

PVC

PVC or poly-vinyl chloride is a white rigid plastic that’s standard for in-home waste line material. Professionals often use it to repair broken sections of iron waste pipes and other drain lines. It’s a tough heat- and chemical-resistant pipe that professionals can easily cut and fit into various places.

It’s easy to cut with a tubing cutter or hacksaw, and professionals generally use PVC for vent or drain pipes and waste lines. They join the sections together using a special chemical solvent.

Chromed Brass

This pipe has a shiny chromed finish and a large diameter. Professionals typically use it for exposed traps and drains. They use a slip fitting to join the line after cutting it with a hacksaw. You’ll often see it on visible waste lines instead of PVC.

CPVC

CPVC is an inexpensive dull-white plastic that can withstand high temperatures and pressure. Professionals install CPVC for cold and hot water supply piping. It’s easy to cut with a hacksaw or tubing cutters. They join CPVC with other materials using solvent glue, grip fittings, or plastic fittings.

Copper

There are two types of copper pipes: flexible and rigid pipes. Three varieties of wall thickness also exist, called K, L, and M. M is what plumbing professionals typically use in water supply situations. They use stiff copper piping for longer water supply runs and flexible piping for short runs. You can also find copper piping functioning as gas lines.

Copper has made a name for itself over the past decades due to its reliability and resistance to corrosion. It’s the costlier option, but there are multiple benefits to using copper piping for plumbing in your home because of its durability.

Understanding the different types of materials for plumbing fittings helps you make informed decisions about your home’s plumbing. Refer back to this post if you forget when it comes time to make decisions.