There is a lot of speculation about using PVC pipes for shower. People often wonder whether they will prove to be durable and whether the PVC fittings are sustainable.
In this article, we are going to discuss whether you can use PVC for showers, plumbing, shower head, and such.
We will also discuss the sizes of PVC pipes that you should use for shower drains and plumbing. In addition, we will give you a thorough insight into the types of pipes that you can use as alternatives to PVC. So let’s read ahead to learn more about PVC fittings.
Can I use PVC for shower (plumbing, shower head, etc.)
You can use PVC for showers. You can use PVC pipes in drain lines in your shower, both indoors and outdoors. It is also appropriate for use in a bathtub, shower head, shower drain, and so on. You can use CPVC for water supply lines in your home. It can connect the shower valve and spout.
PVC pipes have been an item of interest for homeowners around the world. This is due to this product’s durability, functionality, and affordability.
So we have designed this article to help you understand whether you should opt for PVC pipes for your shower, plumbing, shower head, and so on.
The quick answer is that you can definitely use PVC for showers. This product is greatly appropriate for showering drain lines, bathtubs, and so on. You can also use it for drain lines outdoors. It is protective against the elements of nature and can serve you for several years.
However, you should make sure not to use PVC pipes for hot water indoors. These pipes are not designed to withstand the heat of running hot water. So you will have a hard time maintaining PVC for showering indoors, especially if you are using hot water.
PVC is so lucrative because of its building features. The product has gained increasing popularity over the years because it is highly durable. It is now used very commonly in both residential and commercial houses.
The white PVCs are generally used for plumbing activities. They will not rust, and nor will they corrode. These pipes are built to serve you for a long time.
PVC pipe for shower drain:
You can use PVC pipe for the shower drains. These pipes are long-lasting and have been designed to withstand elements of nature. They do not rust or corrode, which offers you a great advantage.
So you can definitely use these pipes for shower drains. They will be able to serve you for a long time.
This material has been infused into the modern piping system, and for all the right reasons. You will be able to leverage its benefits for a long time, without having to worry about the plumbing system.
PVC pipe for shower plumbing:
You can use PVC pipe for shower plumbing as well.
These pipes are greatly appropriate for plumbing, both indoors and outdoors. So you will be able to enjoy its benefits in the shower plumbing without any worry.
PVC pipes are resistant to corrosion and rust. So you will be able to use these pipes for a long time. This is great for residential houses.
PVC pipe for shower head:
You can use PVC pipe for the showerhead. These pipes are appropriate for the setting. However, there are much better alternatives for showerheads in the market, including steel.
You can opt for PVC pipes for the showerhead as these materials are quite cost-effective. So you will be able to save a lot on the plumbing system if you opt for PVC pipes.
What size PVC pipe is used for shower drains and plumbing?
A 2-inch PVC pipe is used for shower drains and plumbing. This is the appropriate size of pipe for shower drains and plumbing’s, both indoors and outdoors. You can comfortably install this pipe in your home as well.
If you do not have any prior experience in this field, we recommend you hire professional help. This is crucial in order to ensure a long-lasting service from the pipe.
And if you’re looking for a pipe for your kitchen sink, then we suggest you opt for a PVC pipe of 1 and a half inches. This would be a great fit for kitchen sinks, bathtubs, as well as a bathroom vanity.
On the other hand, for shower stalls, washing machines, and so on, you may opt for a PVC pipe of 2 inches. You may even use these pipes in a vertical stack of kitchen sinks.
And for toilets, you can opt for a PVC pipe of three inches. These are commonly used for plumbing toilets.
What type of PVC is used for the shower drains and plumbing?
There are several types of PVC pipes in the market. You will be amazed to learn about their functionality. Different type of PVC is used for different functions around the house.
For shower drains and plumbing and plumbing, you will have to use polyvinyl chloride or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride pipes.
These pipes are specially equipped to fight against rust and corrosion, the common problems that might occur during plumbing.
How long does PVC plumbing last?
Traditionally, PVC plumbing used to last for something between 25 to 40 years. However, in recent years, PVC pipes show greater potential. Thanks to the advancement in technology, PVC plumbing now lasts as long as 70 years.
So you will be able to enjoy a very durable service with PVC pipes. These pipes are pretty affordable as well as durable, which makes them a very lucrative choice for homeowners.
On the other hand, some experts have reported, by running independent research, that a properly designed and effectively installed PVC pipe can last as long as one hundred years.
In fact, they have reported that it is only a conservative estimate, implying that the pipes are likely to last even longer.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using PVC for shower drains and plumbing?
There are several advantages and disadvantages to using PVC for shower drains and plumbing. Let’s take a look at some of the most prominent advantages and disadvantages in this case. Read ahead to learn more about it:
Advantages:
Let’s look at the advantages of using PVC pipes:
Corrosion-resistant:
Deterioration of water pipes due to corrosion is a very common problem, one that we have to deal with just a few years after installing water pipes.
So it is important to ensure that you are using corrosion-resistant pipes. PVC pipes are resistant to corrosion, which adds as a great advantage.
Less blockages in waste water pipes:
PVC pipes come with highly smooth linings on the inside. So you will be able to enjoy great durability with these pipes. There will be less blockages in wastewater pipes.
Easy to install:
You will be able to install these pipes very quickly and easily. It has been proven than PVC pipes up to 30% less time than concrete pipes of the same size to install. So you will be able to save a lot of time and energy with these pipes.
Disadvantages:
Let’s look at the disadvantages of using PVC pipes:
Lightweight:
These pipes are very lightweight. So they are highly prone to cracking. These pipes are very likely to break or crack after a while of installment. So you will need to be careful around them.
Lack flame resistance:
PVC pipes can withstand hot water running through them. But these water pipes are not flame resistant. So if they ever face fire, the PVC pipes will melt rather quickly.
What other types of pipes are used for shower drain and plumbing?
Let’s now take a look at what other types of pipes are used for shower drain and plumbing. Read ahead to learn more about it:
Concrete and clay:
While PVC pipes are affordable and easy to install, they have a rather durable alternative. You can use concrete and clay pipes for shower drain and plumbing instead of PVC.
While concrete pipes are highly durable, the clay pipes are very flexible. So you can surely use them instead of PVC pipes.
Metal pipes:
Another alternative to PVC pipes are metal pipes. You can use copper pipes instead of PVC pipes for shower drain and plumbing. These pipes are equipped with the widest range of joints and fittings.
Final thoughts
You can use PVC for shower, plumbing, shower head, etc. These pipes are very easy to install. They are durable and affordable as well. And the PVC pipes come in a range of sizing options as well, so you will offered a good range of choices while working with these pipes.