Metal Pipes for Plumbing: Advice from an Atlanta Plumber
After working for many years as a professional plumber I can tell you that there are lots of variations in piping used in this craft. Different types of metallic pipes for plumbing are available in the market, each of which serves its own distinct and vital purpose on the industry. It is therefore important to know the basic functions of each of these types to get a better understanding of residential piping systems.
Metal pipes come in several standard types, one of which is the Galvanized pipes. This heavy, metal pipe is distinctive for its dull, grayish-silver exterior. They have long been used for both cold and hot piping systems in homes. However, the use of metal pipes started to decline as other simpler pipes have already replaced them.
Generally, galvanized metallic pipes are used to drain water out of homes and are buried deep underground. Due to their galvanized coating, these pipes are fairly resistant to rust. However, they somewhat rust easily along the pipe’s threaded ends where the galvanized coating has been removed.
Another type of metal pipe for plumbing is copper. Pipes of this kind are generally used for water-carrying systems behind the walls of houses. Copper pipes are also perfect for both cold and hot water systems because of its good heat tolerance and high resistance to rust.
Copper pipes come in different sizes and styles: the inflexible type L copper is often utilized for home use, while the M and K types are ideal for other piping applications.
The expensive stainless steel pipes, on the other hand, are somewhat rarer than copper or galvanized pipes. They are especially used for highly-corrosive settings, such as in marine environments or in houses along the ocean.
Though not used to carry water in piping systems, black iron pipe is a type of metal pipe of similar price and size with the galvanized pipes. These metal pipes are solely used to carry gas as it does not have any coating to protect them against rust.
For more basic plumbing information check out Plumber Atlanta, a great free resource on plumbing info.
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