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Types of Plumbing Pipes Used in Commercial Buildings

Various plumbers tools and plumbing materials including copper pipe, elbow joint, and wrench. MidCity Plumbers.

In every commercial building, different sets of pipes should be used. It is important to determine the right type of pipe for your commercial building as each type corresponds to a certain need and use. For you to choose the right materials, you need the professional help of plumbing experts. We have rounded here all the things you need to know about the basics of plumbing used in commercial buildings. 

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes are perhaps one of the most expensive pipes out there. The copper pipes are usually found in the construction of water supply lines or refrigerant lines in HVAC systems. This type of pipe can be manufactured as soft or rigid copper. Its key feature is to offer excellent corrosion resistance and reliable connections. So, you won’t have to worry about repairing corrosion damages.

Also, copper pipes are a popular and common option for residential and commercial plumbing applications. There are two types of copper pipes: rigid copper and flexible copper. Rigid copper has three thicknesses—Type K, Type L, and Type M—used mainly for the water supply. Flexible copper, on the other hand, is soft and malleable. This is usually used where flexibility is needed. That’s why MidCity Plumbers has trained professionals to install plumbing systems using copper pipes. 

Copper pipes and fittings plumbing work for connection of water or gas systems. MidCity Plumbers

Brass Pipes 

Brass pipes are usually known for their high resistance to rust and corrosion. They are also a durable choice for commercial plumbing applications with a long lifespan. Brass also performs better than stainless steel pipes. Brass pipes are often used for the safe delivery of both hot and cold water.

PEX Pipes

Cross-linked polyethylene, known as PEX, refers to a flexible plastic material made from medium- to high-density polyethylene. This is primarily found in hot and cold water applications for commercial properties. They often come in various colors like red and blue or white or grey depending on the application. PEX pipes offer a great benefit in the installation in commercial buildings. It is known to have a high tolerance to heat and cold. So, there can be different types of water supply applications. PEX pipes are incredibly flexible, which makes it easy to bend around obstacles for convenient installation and replacement, if necessary. 

Stainless Steel Pipes

Due to its high price point, stainless steel pipe materials are usually the least used for commercial plumbing repairs and even replacement. However, stainless steel is best known for its durability and ideal applicability for locations where corrosion is a significant problem. The strength of this type of pipe is vital for the building owners of commercial properties. 

Stainless steel pipe in stack waiting for shipment  in warehouse. MidCity Plumbers

PVC Pipes

Another common type of pipe is PVC. The PVC material is made of a combination of plastic and vinyl. PVC plumbing pipes are white, grey, or cream in color and typically found in drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems or high-pressure water areas. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are commonly used in both residential and commercial buildings. 

Also, keep in mind that the material is easily compromised with extended exposure to heat and ultraviolet light, which means it can only be used for indoor and some other drainage applications. PVC pipes are usually inflexible and need fittings for easy turns. Unlike PEX pipes, PVC pipes will break or split easily instead of expanding when exposed to freezing temperatures. 

CPVC Pipes

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride or CPVC is a chlorinated thermoplastic pipe for different plumbing applications, such as potable plumbing. Potable plumbing entails potable water that runs from taps in sinks and showers usually found in kitchens and bathrooms. 

In addition, Chlorinated polyvinyl (CPVC) is a low-price option that can handle the plumbing needs of commercial buildings even on regular use. CPVC pipes can withstand exposure to heat and are often approved for water delivery applications, including drinking water. However, like PVC, CPVC will break instead of expand when exposed to freezing liquids or high temperatures. 

CPVC pipe for a plumbing installation or repair in a bright red pipe cutter over a wooden table. MidCity Plumbers

Cast-iron Pipes

Cast-iron plumbing pipes are usually used as the primary sewer lines in commercial buildings for the distribution of water. They are made to withstand high pressure. They have the capacity to deliver large quantities of liquid. In addition, these pipes are also highly resistant to fire and suppress noise for waste disposal especially in apartment buildings. 

Call a professional for an estimate 

If you are thinking of having a commercial building, we can help you with an estimate. This way, you won’t have to worry about surprise costs along the way. If you are having trouble choosing the right type of pipe for your commercial property, our team at MidCity Plumbers can help! 

Our plumbing experts offer a wide variety of plumbing services to all customers in Burnaby and the surrounding areas. We cover all your plumbing needs, from leaks, clogs to piping needs. Our reliable team will deliver every service with excellence, never leaving an issue unsolved. 

If you also need emergency services for your sink drain blockage, give us a call on 📞 (778)-772-8676 today and we are more than happy to help you out!

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