To carry out a do-it-yourself plumbing project, or semi DIY projects, you first need to figure out how to recognize different types of pipes. The most popularly used pipes today are ABS, PVC or copper. However, for more critical plumbing projects or irrigation, seamless steel pipe should be used. Besides, if you look into older houses, you might come across a number of other pipe materials. For instance, houses constructed before mid 20th century used cast iron or galvanized steel, especially for plumbing systems.
By knowing different types, you can create unique, modern feel for indoors and outdoors – thanks to the sleek looks of pipe, design friendliness and functionality.
Take a look at different types of steel pipes used in semi DIY projects and critical applications.
Cast iron
It is one of the most popular materials before 1960s, used in vent stacks, vertical drain and also horizontal drain lines. Cast iron is durable, but today more durable options have come up. It can rust over time. If you have done little bit of plumbing before you can replace rusted sections of the pipes with PVC or ABS or at least can purchase the products and then call a professional plumber for correct transition fittings.
Carbon steel
Carbon steel is a mixture of alloy like carbon and iron. It has numerous benefits over other metals and is used in locations diverse as Asia, Europe and Africa. Carbon seamless steel pipe is in-demand these days because of carbon steel’s endurance to extreme environment. Carbon steel tubes and pipes are not easily affected by pesticides, glues and other preservatives. But, what makes carbon steel seamless pipe and tube production even more acceptable is because of its less damaging effects on the environment.
Many industries consider carbon steel a better choice for critical applications where sturdiness is a key factor.
Plastic
By plastic we mean two popularly available products, either acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene also known as ABS or polyvinyl-chloride also known as PVC. Majority of modern homes now have plastic pipe and fittings because it is corrosion resistant, inexpensive and easy to install. One can easily pursue with their DIY project as the joints can be glued with primer or liquid cement easily.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel pipe are not as robust as carbon steel pipe. Galvanized steels are mostly seen in homes constructed before 1970s. Unlike seamless steel pipes that are made of carbon steel, galvanized pipe can lasts around 50 years, not more than that. If you want to fix the damage, you better consider replacing it. Although galvanized pipes are dipped in a protective coat of zinc to prevent corrosion and rust, but better products are out there in the market today.
