The Hardware Man - Piping and Plumbing

Howdy Folks,

One of the biggest learning curves we had when we bought our store was understanding plumbing and the different solutions and options available. We carry a broad range of products for everyone from the professional to the emergency DIYer. Knowing the standards and differences of the most common elements of an in-home fresh-water plumbing system can save wasted trips and frustration. I’ll specify fresh-water plumbing versus drain or waste lines.

For years, the standard in homes was copper water lines. Straight and sturdy, they withstood temperature fluctuations and rarely leaked unless frozen solid. Cleaned joints were adhered with a torch and solder and had little room for error once set. Repairs took expertise, as flame and melting metal were all necessary to properly complete the job. Copper pipe is typically sized by its outside diameter for fittings and connections, but the actual measurement is a “nominal” size that’s 1/8” larger than the stated size (e.g., 1/2” pipe has a 5/8” OD).

CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) pipe is a durable thermoplastic used for hot/cold water applications and is beige in color. Its fittings are glued and the pipe has a high heat tolerance up to 200°F. Over time, CPVC can become brittle and prone to cracking, especially when exposed to high temperatures and certain chemicals. These vulnerabilities can lead to leaks and water damage. CPVC is measured by the outside diameter of the pipe similar to copper pipe.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is also used often in homes, but primarily for cold water applications, venting or the drain side. The primary difference between CPVC and PVC comes down to temperature and chemical resistance, with CPVC handling much hotter water (up to 200°F vs. PVC’s 140°F) due to extra chlorine. PVC is budget-friendly for cold applications, and PVC and CPVC use different solvent cements and aren’t interchangeable. PVC is measured by the inside diameter of the pipe.

PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene) pipe is a flexible, durable, and cost-effective plastic tubing widely used in modern plumbing for hot/cold water supply and radiant heating systems. It is often color coded for hot or cold water, making identification simple. Its flexibility has better freeze tolerance than rigid lines like Copper or CPVC and its low cost makes it attractive in today’s building economy. PEX comes in three styles, PEX-A, PEX-B and PEX-C.

PEX-A is most flexible and repairable and uses expansion fittings for secure connections. It is larger in diameter than PEX-B. PEX-B is most common, affordable, and chlorine-resistant, and uses a crimp or clamp ring for fittings. PEX-C is least common. We mostly carry PEX-B in store.

Perhaps the biggest change in plumbing was the connections that make it all work. With bends, tees and valves in a line, ease of install and repair are important factors. Push-Fit connections (e.g. Sharkbite fittings) are simple devices that ensure a leak-free quick connection without the need for open flame, glue or additional tools. While most expensive compared to other fittings, they have a business case for time savings and flexibility due it their ability to be removed from a line.

Plumbing tasks have become easier for a homeowner to handle because of the advances in technology. Understanding the main differences in pipe and fitting options can help simplify a fix. However, when in doubt, call a plumber.

---

Daniel Karns and his wife own Clintonville Hardware & Rental along with other businesses. Join the discussion by contacting him at info@clintonvillehardware.com.