Metal vs PVC Pipes: What's Better?

 

If you are in the process of upgrading your plumbing system, you will come across the option of using either metal or PVC piping. You may wonder what the pros and cons of each are, and what’s better suited for your needs. Here are some useful insights on metal pipes and PVC pipe of water distribution:

 

 

1.     PVC pipes are corrosion resistant: Metal pipes are prone to corrosion which not only contaminates the water but also degrades the metal pipes, shortening their lifespan. This leads to unnecessary costs in repair work and replacement.  On the other hand, PVC pipes are resistant to underground external corrosion as well as internal pipe corrosion. This makes them a good choice for transporting potable and drinking water.

 

2.     PVC pipes are leak-resistant:

One of the factors that make PVC pipes a favourite is that it requires zero metalwork for welding. Most leaks occur at the joints. Joints that are required in PVC pipes can be easily sealed with solvent cement.

 

3.     PVC pipes ensure smooth flow rate: Pipe blockage is one of the most faced problems in the sewage system which involves costly and complicated repairs. The major reason for this is the slow flow of water through the metal pipes.  When corrosion builds up in a metal pipe and it restricts water flow, it causes low water pressure and a slow flow rate. PVC pipes for water distribution have a smooth lining when compared to metal pipes. Smooth lining reduces the flow resistance and provides a better surface for the water to flow easily. The pressure is also not reduced as there is less resistance when compared to metal pipes.

 

4.     Safe for drinking water: PVC pipes for water supply are considered to be a safer option as the material does not leach into the water which often happens in the case of metal pipes. As metal pipes are prone to corrosion and the metal can get easily leached into the water. Therefore, PVC pipes are not prone to bio infections causing bacteria breeding grounds. Hence, they are better for public health.

 

5.     PVC pipes are durable: Corrosion is the major cause of shortened life of metal pipes. PVC pipes being corrosion resistant have a better lifespan and can work efficiently for up to 100 years for underground piping.

 

6.     PVC pipes are lightweight: In comparison to other metal pipes, PVC pipes have a major advantage when it comes to weight. PVC pipes are lightweight which makes them easy and cost-effective to transport over heavy metal pipes.  Being lightweight, the installer does not get hurt while installing. Even a single person can handle a large piece of PVC pipe individually with ease. PVC pipes also take less time for installation. As PVC pipes are light-weight, they are easy to transport and less labour is needed, making it a cost-effective option in comparison to metal pipes.

 

7.     PVC pipes are cost-efficient: Comparatively the total cost of ownership of PVC pipes for water distribution is less in comparison to metal pipes. The cost of installing, operating, and maintaining PVC pipes is lower than that of metal pipes. Also, during the time of installation of PVC pipes, heavy lifting equipment is not needed.

 

 

If you are looking for PVC pipes for water distribution, consider Utkarsh India. 

They manufacture PVC, uPVC, HDPE and CPVC pipes. Their pipes have national and international standards and have been approved by various authorities such as SGS, CE, DNV, BVQI, TUV, and more. They manufacture pipes in various sizes following international standards. They use high-grade raw materials for manufacturing from Kobe Steel Ltd, Nippon Steel, and JFE Steel located in Japan.