As part of your home plumbing system, the drain infrastructure is an important component. You want a proper system to dispose of sewage water to ensure safe and hygienic practices within your household.
The number one way to ensure you have proper drainage is by investing in good quality pipes. There are several kinds of pipes used in home drainage systems but over the recent years, PVC pipes have emerged to join the ensemble of home drainage pipes.
Older pipes normally comprise of cast iron, galvanized steel, and copper ensemble. These types of drainage pipes tend to exhibit quite a strong build. However, the majority of households built with such piping are normally old – thus, at present, if you experience problems with your drainage pipes, the most common cause is corrosion.
Compared to PVC, metal pipes such as cast iron and steel also have a higher heat tolerance. However, the use of chemicals, especially acidic liquids in the sinks easily accelerate their corrosion rate. Older materials such as ABS, fully known as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, on the other end have been entirely banned from use with newer houses. This is because the black plastic piping has not proved to be durable and is normally prone to breakage and bursting.
Newer PVC pipes have so far settled in well. Picked as an ideal choice by many homeowners, PVC pipes have eliminated the worries of rusting on your pipes. Additionally, the light-colored plastic pipes are also known to be highly durable and weather resistant thus, allowing them to survive in versatile conditions. Some of the best and high-quality PVC pipes can handle both hot and cold water.
And listed below is an outline of why PVC is a more favorable piping option for your home drainage compare to the older options;
When you experience problems with your drainage system – simply play it safe and call a drainage repair specialist! Professional drainage specialists have garnered the right skills and hold the right tools to diagnose your system. Additionally, with the ever-so evolving industry, they are also well placed to advise you on investing in proper drain pipes.
But how does an untrained individual identify problems with their home drainage system? There are several obvious signs that your drainage has a problem. However, there are four common signs that if identified, are a sign that you should immediately call your plumber.
If water on your sinks takes time to drain or if you hear a gurgling sound after you flush your toilets, this is the number one alert that your drainage system has a problem. If you notice soggy grounds in your backyard on a dry day, chances are that your drainage pipes are leaking or burst. You can even retrace their position to make sure that it is, in fact, your drainage pipes.
Unpleasant sewage smells may also accompany the leaking liquids that make the grounds soggy- this is a confirmation that your drainage pipes are damaged. And the deal sealer is always the backing up of sewage into your sinks or even toilet. This alerts you to call the plumber as soon as possible, because it may result to clean water contamination and even compromise the hygiene of your household.
Your home’s plumbing system plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe and hygienic living environment. A key component of this system is the drainage infrastructure, which ensures proper disposal of wastewater. If you’re considering upgrading or repairing your drainage system, understanding the differences between old clay pipes and modern PVC pipes can help you make an informed decision.
Investing in high-quality pipes is essential for efficient drainage and long-term reliability. Over the years, PVC pipes have become a popular choice for home plumbing systems, offering numerous advantages over traditional materials like clay, cast iron, and galvanized steel.
Older homes often feature pipes made from materials such as:
Cast Iron
Galvanized Steel
Copper
Clay
While these materials are durable, they come with significant drawbacks:
Corrosion: Metal pipes are prone to rust, especially when exposed to acidic substances.
Heavy Weight: These pipes are cumbersome to install and repair.
Fragility: Clay pipes are prone to cracking and breaking under pressure or with age.
Banned Materials: Some older materials, like ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), have been banned in modern plumbing due to durability concerns.
The Advantages of PVC Pipes
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes have revolutionized plumbing with their lightweight, durable, and cost-effective nature. Here’s why they are a superior choice:
Corrosion Resistance: PVC pipes don’t rust or corrode, making them ideal for long-term use.
Weather Durability: They withstand various environmental conditions, including extreme heat and cold.
Easy Identification: Their light color makes it simple to identify pipe diameter and temperature thresholds.
Affordability: PVC pipes are significantly cheaper than metal alternatives.
Ease of Repair: Repairs are straightforward and require minimal effort.
Chlorinated PVC (CPVC) pipes, in particular, are excellent for indoor plumbing due to their ability to handle high temperatures.
Common Signs of Drainage Problems
Recognizing the signs of a failing drainage system can help you avoid costly repairs. Here are the top indicators that you may need to call a drainage repair specialist:
Slow Draining Water: If sinks or tubs take a long time to drain, or you hear gurgling sounds after flushing the toilet, your pipes may be clogged.
Soggy Ground: Unexplained wet spots in your yard, especially on dry days, could indicate leaking or burst pipes.
Unpleasant Odors: Foul sewage smells often accompany leaks and are a clear sign of damage.
Sewage Backups: Wastewater backing up into sinks or toilets is a serious issue that requires immediate professional attention.
Why Hire a Drainage Specialist?
When faced with drainage problems, it’s best to consult a professional. Drainage specialists have the tools and expertise to diagnose issues accurately and recommend the best solutions. They can also guide you in selecting high-quality pipes and provide preventative maintenance tips to keep your system in top condition.