What Are the Different Types of Plumbing Pipes?

Common Types of Plumbing Pipe

Several pipe materials are common in residential plumbing systems. Each has different strengths, limitations, and costs.

1. PEX Pipes: Flexible and Affordable

• Cost: $0.30 to $0.82 per linear foot
• Best for: Hot and cold water supply lines

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is popular in modern plumbing because it’s flexible and easy to install. It’s often used in renovations and new construction since it can bend around corners, reducing the need for fittings.

Pros:

• Fast installation and fewer connections
• Resistant to freezing and bursting
• Budget-friendly compared to copper

Cons:

• Not ideal for outdoor use because UV exposure can damage it
• May require special tools and fittings

2. Copper Pipes: Reliable and Long-Lasting

• Cost: $1 to $3 per linear foot (larger 1 1/2″ to 2″ copper for drain/waste/vent applications can cost $6.70 to $8.40 per linear foot)
• Best for: Hot and cold water supply, especially higher temperature or higher pressure needs

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Copper is a traditional plumbing standard known for strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. It’s suitable for hot and cold water lines and often lasts 50+ years when properly installed and maintained.

Pros:

• Long-lasting and corrosion-resistant
• Handles high temperatures and pressure well
• Does not leach chemicals into water

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than many alternatives
• Can corrode faster in highly acidic water

3. PVC Pipes: Cost-Effective and Durable

• Cost: $0.50 to $5 per linear foot
• Best for: Drain lines, vent systems, and cold water supply (where allowed)

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is lightweight, affordable, and easy to work with. It’s commonly used for non-pressurized applications like drainage and venting. Standard PVC is not recommended for hot water because it has lower heat resistance.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available
• Resists rust and corrosion
• Lightweight and simple to install

Cons:

• Not suitable for hot water supply lines
• Can degrade with UV exposure if used outdoors

4. CPVC Pipes: Versatile and Heat-Resistant

• Cost: $0.40 to $1.56 per linear foot
• Best for: Hot and cold water supply, especially higher temperature applications

CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is similar to PVC but treated to improve heat resistance. It’s often used for hot water lines and can be a practical alternative to copper in many homes, including systems connected to hot water equipment.

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Pros:

• Handles hot water temperatures up to 200°F
• Resistant to chemical corrosion
• Relatively easy installation

Cons:

• More expensive than standard PVC
• Can become brittle over time

5. Galvanized Steel Pipes: Strong but Outdated

• Cost: $2 to $5 per linear foot
• Best for: Found in older homes (typically built before the 1970s)

Galvanized steel was once the standard in residential plumbing, but it’s prone to internal corrosion and buildup. Many homeowners replace galvanized pipes with PEX or copper during renovations.

Pros:

• Strong material for its time
• Can handle high pressure

Cons:

• Prone to corrosion and clogging, which can reduce flow and affect water quality
• Heavy and difficult to work with during repairs

Choosing the Right Plumbing Pipe for Your Home

In general: Use PVC for drains/vents, CPVC for hot water supply, and PEX or copper for most supply lines, then fine-tune based on climate, pressure, and water quality.

When selecting plumbing pipe, consider:

1. Budget: PEX and PVC are typically lower cost; copper and CPVC often cost more upfront.
2. Application: PVC is common for drainage; CPVC is common for hot water supply; PEX and copper are widely used for supply lines.
3. Climate: Homes in colder regions may benefit from PEX’s freeze resistance.
4. Water pressure: Copper performs well in high-pressure applications; PEX and PVC often fit standard needs.
5. Durability goals: Copper and CPVC can offer long service life with proper installation and maintenance.

A licensed plumber can confirm what’s best for your home’s layout, local codes, and water conditions.

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Long-Term Benefits of Quality Plumbing Pipes

• Reduced repairs: Durable materials help lower the risk of leaks, clogs, and other plumbing issues.
• Longer lifespan: Copper and CPVC can last 50 years or more in many homes.
• Improved water quality: Non-corrosive materials (like PEX and CPVC) can help maintain cleaner water.
• Energy efficiency: Better temperature retention and proper insulation can help reduce heat loss on hot water lines.

Cost of Plumbing Pipes

Pipe costs vary by material (not including fittings and labor):

• PEX pipes: $0.30 to $0.82 per linear foot
• Copper pipes: $1 to $10 per linear foot
• PVC pipes: $0.50 to $5 per linear foot
• CPVC pipes: $0.40 to $1.56 per linear foot
• Galvanized steel pipes: $2 to $5 per linear foot

Additional costs can include fittings, permits, wall access/repairs, and labor. Professional installation commonly adds $500 to $1,500, depending on project scope. Plumber rates per hour can range from $45 to $150 as of 2026, depending on location, experience, and job complexity.

Understanding pipe options helps you make smarter choices for repairs, upgrades, or full repipes. Whether you need the flexibility of PEX, the durability of copper, or the affordability of PVC, choosing the right material supports a safer, longer-lasting plumbing system.

For more on pipe costs and to find a licensed contractor, visit Modernize’s Plumbing Repair Cost Guide. Let Modernize connect you with trusted pros who can handle your plumbing project with care.

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