Water Line Repair in Fort Worth

Plumbing a House

Plumbing of any kind, like anything else will wear out and eventually require replacement. Over time the materials used for pipes have changed.

In the early 1900’s leaded pipe was used. Leaded pipe where it still remains should be replaced without delay due to the potential for lead poisoning. Galvanized pipes were once very popular in homes, but were used less when PVC/CPVC became available. If your home has older galvanized pipes having them inspected may be a good idea, especially if you see rusty water when you turn a faucet on. Copper pipe is time proven, dependable and has been the plumber’s choice for over 70 years. The latest arrival in plumbing materials is PEX pipe and is gaining in popularity.

Copper Pipe

Copper pipe has proven its reliability through the years, and is generally a very reliable metal pipe. Copper is impermeable and biostatic, that is to say that contaminants can’t penetrate it, and it inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria. Copper pipe is highly resistant to corrosion and doesn’t become brittle with age. Copper plumbing is one of the most reliable of plumbing materials.

PVC/CPVC Pipe

PVC pipe is used for the transport of cold water, whereas CPVC is used for the transport of hot water. They are very similar in features and properties with CPVC being more tolerant of deformation and pressure making it even more crack resistant. It is manufactured to a higher standard in order to withstand the transport hot water.

PVC/CPVC costs very little when compared to other plumbing and is generally a very reliable plumbing material. PVC and CPVC require the use of a primer and cement to join pipes and fitting.

Polybutylene

Polybutylene pipe is no longer available in the US due to its poor quality and rapid degradation. If you are in the market for a home built before 1996 ensure your home inspector knows to check for the presence of polybutylene plumbing as it will require replacement.

PEX

PEX pipes have been in use in Europe for 30 years but is relatively new to the US. The popularity of PEX has been growing in recent years due to its flexibility and relatively low cost. According to the PEX website the following are the advantages of PEX over copper pipe.

• Fewer Leaks: Due to its extreme flexibility PEX plumbing installations utilize fewer fittings than rigid pipe, reducing the potential for leaking joints.
• Flexible: PEX tubing is unrolled from spools and can be installed in long runs eliminating the need for couplings, and can make 90 degree turns without elbow fittings.
• Corrosion Resistant: PEX resists the scale build-up commonly seen with copper pipe, and does not pit or corrode with exposure to acidic water.
• Freeze Resistant: PEX is more resistant to freeze-breakage than copper or rigid plastic pipe due to its greater ability to expand and contract.
• No Water Hammer: Water flows more quietly through PEX tube, and “water hammer” noise due to the sudden shut off of water is virtually eliminated.
• Less Expensive: PEX tubing is less expensive than copper pipe and installation time is reduced because fewer fittings are required.

When plumbing is located inside of walls, PEX has the advantage of possible retrofitting plumbing without tearing out walls unlike rigid copper pipe.

If you suspect your plumbing may be in need of replacement give our dependable plumbers a call, we will be happy to provide a full evaluation.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Fort Worth provides professional experienced plumbers for all of your plumbing needs. You deserve quality plumbing services, and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Fort Worth ensures that you receive it each and every time, backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Give us a call for dependable, prompt service when you need water line repair in Fort Worth or any other plumbing services .