Pipe Systems Guide
Understanding your home's pipe systems. Compare materials, learn Denver code requirements, and know when it's time to repipe.
Pipe Material Comparison
Copper Pipes
Use: Supply lines (hot and cold water)
Advantages
- Long lifespan
- Resists corrosion
- Doesn't leach chemicals
- Handles heat well
- Recyclable
Disadvantages
- Expensive
- Can freeze and burst
- Requires soldering
- Theft target
- Can corrode with acidic water
PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene)
Use: Supply lines (hot and cold water)
Advantages
- Freeze resistant (expands)
- Easy installation
- Flexible
- Fewer connections
- Affordable
- Color-coded
Disadvantages
- Can't be used outdoors (UV damage)
- Rodent damage possible
- Not recyclable
- Newer technology
CPVC (Chlorinated PVC)
Use: Supply lines (hot and cold water)
Advantages
- Affordable
- Easy installation
- Corrosion resistant
- Handles hot water
Disadvantages
- Brittle in cold
- Can crack over time
- Chemical sensitivity
- Not as flexible as PEX
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Use: Drain, waste, vent (DWV) lines only
Advantages
- Very affordable
- Easy to work with
- Corrosion resistant
- Lightweight
Disadvantages
- Not for hot water supply
- Can warp with heat
- Degrades in UV light
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
Use: Drain, waste, vent (DWV) lines
Advantages
- Strong and durable
- Easy installation
- Handles cold well
- One-step cement
Disadvantages
- Can warp in heat
- Louder water flow
- May not meet all codes
- UV sensitive
Galvanized Steel
Use: Older supply lines (being phased out)
Advantages
- Strong
- Long history of use
Disadvantages
- Corrodes internally
- Restricts water flow over time
- Lead concerns at joints
- Should be replaced
- Heavy
Cast Iron
Use: Older drain lines
Advantages
- Very durable
- Quiet (dampens sound)
- Fire resistant
Disadvantages
- Heavy
- Rusts eventually
- Expensive
- Hard to work with
- Joints can fail
Denver-Specific Considerations
Freeze Protection
Denver's cold winters require insulation on exposed pipes. PEX is more freeze-resistant than copper.
Water Quality
Denver's water can be slightly corrosive. Copper and PEX handle it well; galvanized steel corrodes faster.
Altitude Effects
Lower atmospheric pressure at 5,280 feet affects some pressure calculations but not pipe selection.
Building Codes
Denver follows IPC codes. PEX, copper, and CPVC approved for supply; PVC/ABS for drains.
Galvanized Replacement
Many older Denver homes have galvanized pipes that should be replaced with copper or PEX.
Signs You Need Repiping
- Discolored or rusty water
- Low water pressure throughout house
- Frequent leaks or pipe repairs
- Visible corrosion on pipes
- Home has galvanized steel pipes (pre-1960s)
- Lead pipes or lead solder (pre-1986)
- Polybutylene (gray) pipes (1978-1995)
- Water tastes or smells metallic
Freeze Prevention Tips
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas (attic, crawl space, garage)
- Seal air leaks near pipes
- Let faucets drip during extreme cold
- Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air circulation
- Maintain minimum heat of 55°F even when away
- Know location of main water shutoff valve
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before winter
- Consider pipe heating cables for vulnerable areas
More Plumbing Information
Learn about fixtures, water heaters, and emergency repairs.