Different Pipe Lining Materials You Should Know About
There’s a vast selection for pipe lining materials for different kinds of reasons and purposes.
If you’re thinking about replacing your pipe lining, then here are just some of the different high quality pipe lining materials you should know about:
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
These pipes come in different thickness – schedules. The common ones are usually 40 and 80 schedules. The higher the schedule is, the thicker the walls are. Usually, people use Schedule 40. However, Schedule 80 PVC is stronger, which makes it able to handle high pressure. When you’re expecting these pipes to carry cold water, PVC is the best option for you. This is because hot water can’t go through PVC pipe lining material because it’ll easily breakdown. This is also the same when PVC is exposed to the sun. One of the advantages of PVC is that it doesn’t corrode or rust over time. In addition to that, it’s also a less expensive option if you’re expecting replacement and repairs. At the same time, you also need to make sure that you do proper maintenance on your s to keep them from breaking down too easily.
Copper
The good thing about lining material is that it can hold both hot and cold water because this metal is heat resistant, not easily corroded, and has natural anti-microbial properties. It’s a bit more expensive as compared to PVC pipe lining, but it is more durable and can withstand both hot and cold water. In addition to that, with an average life of 50 years, copper lasts longer before you need to replace them. Since it’s sturdy, you can use it underground along with sleeves as well.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
ABS is a bit more prone to deterioration as compared to PVC because of its weatherability due to damage from sunlight exposure. However, ABS is still strong and very easy to install. It has chemical resistance and great electrical insulation properties. It can be used for your pipes to carry hot and cold water. However, some of the shortcomings of this type of lining is being hazardous when burned. When installing ABS, you need to check with the regulations of your building and engineers if it is the right one to use over PVC.
HDPE Pipes
HDPE pipes are made from a flexible thermoplastic, so they are perfect for replacing damaged steel or concrete pipelines. These pipes are not only impermeable but also have unmatched tensile strength for durability. Furthermore, HDPE pipes are cost-effective, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight. Unlike in the previous decades, more companies are today opting for HDPE pipe fittings for their affordability and efficiency. Users recognize the environmentally friendly nature of HDPE pipes, hence, their application as a green solution. You can rely on HDPE pipes to significantly minimize your carbon footprint.
Galvanized Steel or Iron Pipe Lining Materials
Because these kinds of pipe lining are also covered with another layer of zinc, it prevents corrosion caused by water, making it stronger and more durable. One of the other advantages of having galvanized steel or iron as a pipe lining is the lower cost as compared to stainless steel. Even though it has a lower cost, the life expectancy of this type of lining is still quite long.
Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX)
Cross-linked polyethylene, which is also known as PEX, is one of the types of pipe lining materials used for cold and hot water supply lines. Because it’s very flexible, you can curve it around some obstructions or corners on the walls. In addition to that, it’s also not susceptible to corrosion and is very durable. Depending on the temperature, the material is made to contract and expand. Because of this, it’s freeze resistant and not very rigid. Since it can be snaked through your existing piping, it’s easier to re-pipe if you need to repair and such. This kind of piping is much less expensive as compared to metal pipe lining but it’s durable.
Lead
You must know what lead piping is because it is lead piping material that you need to avoid. Most of you might have already heard about lead content in water leading to many serious health problems, such as nervous system and kidney damage, just to name a few. Lead consumption, even in small amounts, can be harmful to the health of humans. Since it was widespread only until the 50s, the lead pipe lining material is usually found in old homes. So, if you’re installing pipe lining, avoid lead. Most importantly, if you live in an old house or are planning to purchase an old house, make sure to have an engineer check the kind of pipe lining material used. If it’s lead, you need to quickly change those before anyone gets sick.
Conclusion
The pipe lining material you should know about and need will depend on the use of your pipes. Different kinds of purposes will need a certain kind of pipe lining material. Using the guide above, you can check which ones you will need for your pipes.