The main difference between PVC and uPVC is that uPVC doesn’t contain phthalates or BPA. This makes it safer for transporting water, as well as making it fire-resistant.Know More
The term PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, and the term uPVC stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride. PVC pipe is often used to distribute water that people aren’t going to drink. It’s also used to insulate electric cables. The uPVC versions often replace wood when building window frames and sills. The uPVC pipe variant also often replaces pipes made of cast iron for drains, waste piping, downspouts and gutters.
Many people use PVC instead of metal, as PVC is much easier to cut than metal, and it’s also easy to use glue together. In addition, PVC is still fairly tough, so not much strength is lost. Most plastic piping around the globe is actually uPVC because of how resistant it is to degradation caused by chemicals, high and low temperatures and various pressure points. The uPVC version of piping is less flexible than regular PVC, but it's also more recyclable.
Although M and L copper pipes have the same outside dimensions, the interior walls of type L are thicker. Type M is typically used in personal homes, while the heavier-duty L pipes are used for projects such as commercial buildings, hot water heating systems and underground structures. Building inspectors should be consulted before a type of copper pipe is selected, because some areas have certain restrictions.Full Answer >
Water expands when it freezes, which causes pipes to burst. Pipes are strong, but the pressure imparted by solidifying water is often too much for them to bear.Full Answer >
To prevent frozen pipes, leave a trickle of warm water running from a faucet on nights when the temperature drops. The slow flow of water prevents ice from blocking pipes and also prevents freezing damage. In addition, leaving under-sink cabinets open allows warm air to circulate around pipes and keeps their temperature from dropping into the freezing range.Full Answer >
One of the most common causes of humming pipes after flushing a toilet is debris trapped in an inlet valve. Water carries small stones, calcium deposits and solder to the valve area which traps them, resulting in the annoying noise.Full Answer >