Sewer pipes are one of the important components of a good plumbing system. The most popular choices are cast iron and PVC sewer pipes. With these options, which pipe is better? Before you pick which pipe to use, make sure to know the difference so you can determine which material is best for your needs.
Facts About Cast Iron Pipes
Cast iron pipes have a long history of usage dating back as early as the 1600s. Most old buildings still hold cast iron pipes for many decades
(even centuries). Cast iron sewer pipes can withstand the test of time. The famous fountains of Versaille in France hold the oldest water supply system using cast iron from the late 17th century which is still in use up to this day! With its long history, we can say that durability is the main strength of a cast iron pipe.
Facts About PVC Pipes
PVC pipes have been used for 80 years in plumbing and construction. It is relatively young compared to cast iron pipes. This material is made from plastic and has many benefits. It is popularly used because it’s lightweight and most of all, versatile. PVC pipes are also durable and resistant to corrosion and increasing temperature.
Important Comparison Points Between Cast Iron and PVC Sewer Pipes
Flexibility
A cast iron is indeed a strong material. But when a blunt force is applied, it can become brittle and break. PVC on the other hand is much more flexible and resistant to blunt forces and does not break easily.
Friction In Water
Friction can fluctuate water pressure. PVC pipes are much smoother than cast iron pipes. That means, there is less fluid friction and flow rates are consistent with PVC pipes compared to cast iron.
Cost
PVC pipes are almost half the price of cast iron pipes. Since the material is lightweight, installation is much easier which can also lower the labor cost.
Fire Resistance
Cast iron pipes can resist high temperatures and won’t melt easily. The heat threshold of PVC is 450 degrees which can melt in the event of fires.
Noise
Vibration can produce sound
(noise). A cast-iron pipe is thick and dense and does not cause too much vibration when water flows through. Since PVC pipe is lightweight, it could vibrate due to water flows which result in noise.
Corrosion
Over time, a cast iron is subject to rust and corrosion and requires regular maintenance. That is not the case with PVC which can withstand rust and corrosion since it’s made of plastic.
Adjustability
Cast iron pipes are adjustable compared to PVC. The fittings can be adjusted even after the installation. However, with PVC, the portion of the plumbing system has to be replaced should there be changes needed.
Between Cast Iron And PVC Sewer Pipes, Which Are Better?
We highly recommend using PVC pipes for modern plumbing systems. The reality for most home and business owners today is that sewer waste contains much more than pure running water like the fountains of Versailles. Grease from the kitchen as well as other sewer waste can lead to significant corrosion and a shorter life expectancy in cast-iron pipes. Leone Plumbing therefore highly recommends using PVC pipes for modern plumbing systems. If you are unsure of the option,
contact us today for a consultation.
Photo Credit: Versailles Fountain – Ernelina at Pixabay
The good old days always bring nostalgic memories. Memories that are worth remembering especially if they happened in an old house. Older homes usually treasure cherished moments with family and friends. That is why for someone who owns an old house, it is very important to maintain each aspect of its structure including the plumbing system.
Sewer line repairs can happen anytime for a home or business establishment. There are methods or solutions in dealing with sewer repairs that can either be effective or cause inconvenience. In special cases, pipe bursting is one method that is proven to fix your pipes effectively with less damage to your property. But what is pipe bursting and when should it be considered?
Are you annoyed with the persistent clogs on your toilet, bathtub, or sink drain? Despite rigorous efforts to remove clogs such as toilet papers, baby wipes, hairs, or dirt, there is still something clogging your plumbing system. There can be a real problem here! Roots may be invading your pipes which require professional tree root removal.
With all of the events that happened last holiday season, have you thought of what went down to your drain? After the party when you are washing dishes, grease and food particles are washed down your drain. That is in addition to soap, hair, and dirt that are making their way through your plumbing system when you take a shower. When was the last time you scheduled a drain cleaning service? Perhaps, you need to prioritize giving your drain the service it deserves.
Tree roots can easily slip through and invade your sewer line. They are silent destroyers of your sewer line that can lead to numerous expenses. But they can be eliminated and prevented. In this article, we will discuss some of the alternative ways for getting rid of tree roots in sewer lines before they thrive and cause further damages. However, these approaches are NOT recommended due to their safety risks and tedious nature. We always recommend cleaning tree roots mechanically using a snake machine or sewer line replacement.
for several hours so they can bond together. Pour the mixture on your toilet and flush gradually to ensure it travels to the pipes. Do not flush your toilet until after 24 hours. The foam created by the mixture should coat the roots causing them to die. Caution: This can also kill nearby trees. If you go with this option, talk it over with your household.