If you are replacing a broken or leaking water line, you will need to make a decision about what type of replacement pipe to install. You may be thinking that you should replace the water line with the same type of material, but that’s not the case. In fact, if your old water line is polybutylene or galvanized steel, you are better off using a different material for the new water line.
Galvanized steel is a black rigid pipe that was used for water supply in the 60’s and 70’s. Galvanized pipe is rarely used anymore because it tends to corrode and leak after 20 to 30 years, its expensive, and difficult to work with. Polybutylene is a type of plastic pipe that is usually blue that was popular in the 80’s and 90’s. It is off the market because its starts leaking after 5 to 10 years.
Copper pipe is an excellent choice for water supply lines. Both flexible and rigid copper pipe is relatively easy to work with and very durable. The main problem with copper pipe is that it is expensive.
Polyethylene (PE) tubing is a flexible plastic pipe that is currently a popular choice because it is inexpensive and easy to work with. It is not quite as durable as copper pipe, but still a good choice for a water supply line.
PVC is rigid plastic pipe that can be used for water supply lines. It is easy to work with and inexpensive, but since it comes in ten or twenty foot sections, it requires numerous fittings each of which is potential site for a leak.
Your plumbing professional can help you decide which type of pipe will makes the most sense for your water line repair.
