Plumbing is a crucial component in every household because it controls the proper flow of water through pipes, faucets, and appliances. Whether you are building or renovating your house or any building, picking suitable plumbing materials can be hectic but essential. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step checklist to help you make the right decision before you reach plumbing material suppliers in Dubai.
Types of Plumbing Materials
There are many material types, each with advantages and disadvantages.
Copper
Advantages:
- Durable and long-lasting material
- Resistant to corrosion
- Can handle high water pressure
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Requires professional installation.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
Advantages:
- Affordable
- Easy to install.
- Corrosion- and chemical-resistant
Disadvantages:
- Unsuitable for piping applications in hot water.
- Tends to become brittle with age.
PEX
Advantages:
- Very flexible and easy to install.
- Resistant to heat and cold
- Durable, long-lasting
Disadvantages:
- Can be photo damaged by UV light
- Not suitable for outdoor use
Galvanized Steel
Advantages:
- Strong and durable
- Can handle high water pressure
Disadvantages:
- Prone to rust and corrosion.
- Heavy and tough to install.
CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride)
Advantages:
- It is resistant to chemicals and heat
- Durable and long-lasting.
Disadvantages:
- More costly than PVC
- Can become brittle with age.
Factors to Mull Over When Choosing the Best Plumbing Materials
Consider the Water Quality
The water quality in your area primarily determines the best plumbing materials. If the water is hard and contains a high level of minerals, then scaling in a pipe system is a significant problem, hence blocking and reducing the pace of the water flow. Therefore, slightly tougher materials resistant to scale build-ups, like PEX and CPVC, may be more suitable.
Check Building Codes Locally
As a responsible citizen, you are supposed to ensure that the plumbing materials you buy fit the recommended list in the local building code. However, some of these materials may not be approved for use in any particular area due to safety and health regulations.
Budget Considerations
The budget is often one of the primary considerations when exploring materials from different plumbing material suppliers in Dubai. Material choices like copper and, to some extent, CPVC assure more durability and reliability, but they are expensive. PVC and PEX are pocket-friendly but lack durability; therefore, a balance has to be struck between the two.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient plumbing materials and fixtures will save you a lot of money on your utility bills. PEX can retain radiant heat, meaning its pipes would work perfectly for hot water lines. In doing so, you’ll save the environment and your money in the long run.
Maintenance in Future
Think about the future maintenance of the plumbing materials you will choose today. For instance, copper is almost maintenance-free, while galvanized steel usually requires periodic checking for rusting and corrosion. Less maintenance materials save you time and money for repairs and replacements.
Installation Process
Materials like PVC and PEX can be relatively easily installed, which is an excellent choice if you make it a DIY project. On the other hand, materials like copper and galvanized steel demand professional installation. That is because laying these materials will generally involve some complexity in their procedures and require special tools.
Conclusion
You now know how to choose the correct plumbing materials. Factors to consider include water quality, local building codes, budget, and more to ensure an efficient and durable plumbing system for your home.
Obaid Masood is the best option if you are wondering where to find suitable material.
For over 30 years, Obaid Masood Building Material Trading L.L.C. has been one of the most trusted plumbing material suppliers in Dubai. We offer a wide range of plumbing materials for residential or commercial projects to meet your needs.