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Blog: Goldmedalplumbinganddrain.ca
The Top 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing A Plumbing Pipe
Making decisions about plumbing for your property can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t have any previous
plumbing experience. Your plumbing material choice is important, as it provides you with one of our most precious
resources: water. By gaining a better understanding of the factors you should take into account when choosing your
plumbing pipe material, you will be able to make a more educated decision.
From your trusted Mississauga plumbers at Gold Medal Plumbing and Drain, here are the top factors to consider
when making your plumbing material choice:
Water Type
Depending on where you live, the water going through your pipes may be corrosive. Corrosive water refers to water
that dissolves materials it comes into contact with. Corrosive water is problematic in your home because the last
thing you want is your pipes degrading only a few years after they’ve been installed. Although the water itself isn’t
harmful, when it corrodes copper and metal pipes, it also dissolves copper and lead into the water supply, which
does pose health concerns. A water test conducted by a professional determines the level of acidity in your water
source.
Plumbing Use
The amount of water pressure you require is another important determinant in finding the correct plumbing pipe for
your property. Chances are, if you are looking for a plumbing solution in a commercial space, you are seeking high
water pressure. To maintain a high water pressure, a pipe will need to be wide and durable enough to sustain
significant force. Plastic pipes are usually the best option in this case, as they are specifically designed for this use.
If you are looking to reduce operating costs, you should also consider the smoothness of pipes. A smooth inside
improves water flow, reducing the amount of resistance, and therefore water required. Brass piping is known to be
the smoothest because it doesn’t rust in the interior.
Soil Characteristics
The composition of the soil surrounding your pipes has significant effects on their durability. Soil with excess rocks,
moisture, and abrasive materials will eventually degrade your pipes. It’s also important to look at the chemical
composition of the soil. Sometimes, soil with excess minerals can create a reaction when it comes into contact with
certain pipe materials.
Exposure to Sunlight
Sun has similar effects on pipes as it does to our skin. Ultraviolet (UV) rays deteriorate the surface quality of plastic
pipes over time, making them more vulnerable to issues and decreasing their lifespan. Excess exposure to sunlight
can also cause problems related to changes in temperature. PVC pipes aren’t used to carry hot water, so it’s not a
good idea to have them installed in areas that naturally reach high temperatures. To combat this, many plumbers
will use insulating materials to prevent temperature fluctuations affecting pipe quality.
Gold Medal Plumbing and Drain is the leading provider of repiping services in Mississauga. With over 30 years of
experience, we have the knowledge required to solve your toughest plumbing issues. Learn more about
our services and the areas we serve by calling (416) 242-6111 today!