Was your Jacksonville, IL, home built before 1965? If so, you likely have galvanized or copper piping, as these were popular piping materials during the first sixty-five years of the 1900s. These materials aren’t as widely used today because minerals react with the zinc coating inside the pipe, resulting in limescale buildup and eventually decreased water flow. For this reason, many homeowners with older plumbing seek the following professional repiping solutions.
Alternatives to Galvanized Piping
The most popular alternative to galvanized piping is cross-linked polyethylene (PE) piping, more commonly called PEX piping. Homeowners choose PEX piping to replace their old piping because it’s durable yet flexible, making it the perfect solution for repiping odd-shaped areas of the home. PEX piping also has superior high-density qualities. Many people also find PEX piping one of the more affordable and convenient professional repiping solutions. PEX piping contains no lead components, won’t corrode over time and is resistant to scale and chlorine.
Another option to consider is PVC-CPVC (polyvinyl chloride or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride). Often, people confuse PVC-CPVC piping with PEX piping because they look similar. However, PVC-CPVC is distinctly different from PEX in two ways: there’s more chlorine content in PVC-CPVC pipes, which can increase chlorine in the water supply, and PVC-CPVC can withstand a wider range of temperatures. Since PVC-CPVC pipes can handle up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s often the top choice for hot water applications.
How to Choose the Right Pipe Replacement
Deciding to repipe your home isn’t something you do on a whim. Depending on the project’s scope, it could cost several thousands of dollars. That’s why you want to work closely with plumbing service experts to understand all the options for your home. If you live in an older home with old piping, call HRI Plumbing to learn more about all your professional repiping solutions.
