Determine the required parameters of the pipes (wall thickness, diameter) for any scheme of water supply, in principle, it is not difficult. Another thing is the material – let’s figure out what, from this point of view, pipes for water piping in the house is better to choose.

On the one hand, the choice is quite simplified, because the requirements for products mounted in the system of hot water, not so high, as, for example, for the heating circuit. At least because in the plumbing the factor of thermal expansion does not play a special role. But on the other hand – the range of pipes is so great (just only one species and subspecies numbers more than a dozen) that the average consumer is lost.

Before analyzing the pros and cons of the corresponding types of pipes, it is useful to clarify what criteria the “private customer” is primarily guided by:

• Longevity of the circuit.
• The ability to perform all technological operations (both in the installation of pipes and in the need to repair the water supply in some areas) by their own efforts.
• Ease of installation and maintenance of the system.
• Reasonable cost of products.

Types of water pipes according to manufacturing material

Steel

Advantages:

• Mechanical strength.
• A long operating period (on average – about 50 years).

Perhaps these are all the advantages of steel pipes, which can be noted. But the disadvantages are much more.

Disadvantages:

Significant weight of the pipe.
Installation of plumbing from metal in some cases associated with certain difficulties, and primarily with the fixation of the pipe on the walls. If a private house is erected by frame technology or from foam concrete, fixing brackets will require both time and experience.

The formation of condensate.
And it will appear on the pipes systematically. Firstly, the water in the loop by definition is cold. Secondly, the intensity of this process is affected by the temperature inside the house and its fluctuations outside. Therefore, it is almost impossible to completely eliminate the formation of moisture droplets on the water pipes. And excessive moisture, in addition to a certain discomfort, leads to peeling (flaking) paint on the metal, so you will have to regularly update this coating.

Corrosion.
Minimize its effects and increase the period of life without repair of water pipes can be if you choose galvanized pipes. But it will not be possible to completely avoid the development of rust. And rust as a consequence will lead to tears in the material and will have to hire water leak detection service to avoid costs and further destruction. One way or another, but its smallest fractions will get into the water, so you will have to additionally install devices for better water purification, because one “mud detector” will not be enough.

Unevenness of the walls.
This primarily concerns the inner cavity of the pipe. If to the touch it seems smooth, it is not quite so. Microscopic convexities and notches are areas where foreign deposits appear over time. As a result – reduced water pressure in a home and interruptions with the work of some household appliances (eg, a heating boiler).

The complexity of working with a metal pipe.
If the threading and coupling special difficulties (with the appropriate tools and materials) does not cause them to bend when laying plumbing – already a problem and the possible damage that over time could lead to water leaks. The risk of water leaks in the joints of pipes. And they will eventually, even if the installation of plumbing is made according to all the rules.

Conclusions:

For a private home, steel water pipes – not the best option. They can be used only if it is necessary to replace some part of the route, if it was originally laid of metal.

If it is necessary to install steel pipes, galvanized products should be chosen. Ferrous metal blanks for plumbing are the worst solution to the problem.

Copper pipes

Such pipes are devoid of most of the disadvantages that characterize the steel counterparts. Plumbing, installed from copper samples, is characterized by reliability and durability.

A significant advantage – the pipes do not have to constantly touch up, and in addition, they, thanks to their “noble” appearance, organically fit into any interior. The route of the water pipe will not even have to hide.

But not everyone can afford the arrangement of such plumbing. The reason is too high costs. Higher financial costs are associated not only with the price of copper, but also with the specifics of connecting the pipes.

First, independently, without practical experience, it will not be possible to make a water pipe. You will have to invite professionals.

Secondly, to bind the pipes you will need a torch, a cylinder with gas, a special wire. Such equipment does not belong to the category of “household”. Buy it only in order to mount a private house hot water circuit is hardly advisable.

Conclusion

the plumbing of copper pipes in all respects is the best option for a private home. But only if the owner is not embarrassed by the high costs of its installation.

Metal-plastic pipes

By its structure, such pipes are composite products. As a reinforcing element, a metal frame located between layers of plastic is used. Structurally, the “core” can be performed in different ways: in the form of a spiral winding, solid or perforated intermediate level. In all respects – the cost, ease of installation of plumbing and a number of others – the option is not bad, but not for a private home.

There are several reasons.

1. First, while the pipes themselves are cheap enough, the fittings are quite expensive.
2. Secondly, this kind of plumbing requires regular maintenance, mainly because of the need to constantly tighten all the connections, which are not known for their durability.

Conclusion – metal-plastic pipes are more suitable for laying outside the house, on the territory, on the dacha site. To install the circuit of hot water inside the building is better to choose an alternative.

Plastic pipes

This is a generalized name for such pipes, as they can be made of polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride or polypropylene. Depending on the material, there is a slight difference in certain properties of products, but in relation to water supply the differences are so insignificant that all their advantages and disadvantages can be combined.

Advantages of pipes made of plastic:

• Low weight.
• Durability combined with elasticity.
• The convenience of working with the products, the ease of installation of plumbing.
• Long period of operation of the pipes.
• There is practically no decrease in the inner diameter, since no deposits accumulate on the perfectly smooth surface (inside).
• Plastic pipes are not subject to corrosion.

What to consider when installing plastic pipes:

Polyvinyl chloride, according to experts, can emit toxic substances. If the pipes are not from a well-known manufacturer, there are certain risks.

To bind products made of polypropylene, you will need a special welding machine. In addition, they do not bend well, so if the route of the water pipe is complex, you will have to make a lot of connections (for example, in the corners of the rooms). Welding plastic pipes is described in detail in this manual.

Polyethylene pipes are easier to work with. For plumbing, it is desirable to use cross-linked polyethylene. Most professionals do not doubt that this is the best option for a private home.

Pros of plastic pipes:

Inertness of the material to low temperatures, differences in values. Consequently, polyethylene pipes can be installed in the water supply system both inside and outside the private house.
High durability of joints. The risk of water leakage is practically eliminated.

Installation technology is the easiest.
All pipes are joined by fittings, which are crimped with a special device.

General conclusion

For plumbing in a private home should choose pipes made of plastic. In terms of practicality, the best solution – products made of polyethylene. Such pipes are somewhat more expensive than analogs made of polymers, but these costs, given the specific functioning of the system, more than justified.