HomeDesign Element | Scotty's Heating & AirBlogDesign Element | Scotty's Heating & Air

The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Home Piping Materials

Choosing the Right Piping Material for Your Home Plumbing in Wichita, KS

Selecting the right piping material is essential for ensuring the long-term functionality, efficiency, and reliability of your home plumbing system. With many options available today, each offering distinct benefits and drawbacks, it’s important to understand the differences before making a decision. Whether installing new plumbing or upgrading existing pipes, this guide will help homeowners in Wichita, KS, and nearby areas choose the best piping solution with expert support from Midwest Mechanical.

Copper Piping: Durable and Reliable

Copper has been a trusted choice for home plumbing due to its longevity and resistance to corrosion. It withstands high temperatures, making it ideal for both hot and cold water lines. Copper’s biostatic properties help prevent bacterial growth, ensuring clean water supply. Additionally, copper does not leach harmful substances, preserving water quality. However, copper piping is more expensive than alternatives and requires professional soldering during installation. Over time, especially in areas with acidic water, copper pipes may develop pinhole leaks that require maintenance.

PVC Piping: Affordable and Versatile

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipes are popular for their affordability and ease of handling. Lightweight and easy to install, PVC is commonly used for drain and waste lines as it resists chemical corrosion well. However, PVC is unsuitable for hot water applications because heat can warp or damage the material. It can also crack under extreme pressure or temperature fluctuations. Proper installation is critical to avoid leaks and maximize the lifespan of PVC piping.

PEX Tubing: Flexible and Easy to Install

Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) tubing is rapidly gaining popularity due to its flexibility and durability. PEX tubing requires fewer fittings, reducing leak points and speeding up installation. It resists scale buildup, corrosion, and chlorine, and is less likely to burst in freezing conditions—making it ideal for cold climates like Wichita. However, PEX cannot be used outdoors since UV exposure degrades it. Though relatively new, early signs show PEX is a highly reliable material.

Galvanized Steel Piping: Sturdy but Prone to Corrosion

Once a standard for plumbing, galvanized steel is strong and durable but prone to internal rust and corrosion over time. This leads to reduced water pressure, clogged pipes, and discolored water. Galvanized pipes generally last about 40 years but are rarely used in new construction. Homeowners with older galvanized systems should consider inspections and replacement to avoid plumbing issues.

Aluminum Piping: Light and Corrosion-Resistant

Aluminum piping is valued for its light weight and corrosion resistance. It is easier for technicians to install and is sometimes used in specialized applications like certain gas lines. While generally durable, aluminum requires careful handling and installation due to sensitivity to chemicals and water quality. Specialized fittings are necessary to maintain integrity and prevent leaks.

Making the Best Choice for Your Home

Each piping material comes with unique advantages and challenges. The right choice depends on factors such as installation location, water temperature, budget, and long-term maintenance considerations. Our team at Midwest Mechanical helps homeowners weigh these factors and choose the ideal piping solution tailored to their specific needs.

Professional Installation and Maintenance Matter

Proper installation is key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of your plumbing system, regardless of material. Our skilled technicians provide expert installation and routine inspections to catch and resolve issues early, ensuring your system remains efficient and reliable for years to come.

Trust Midwest Mechanical for Expert Plumbing Solutions

Choosing the right piping material is a critical decision that affects your home’s plumbing integrity and efficiency. Midwest Mechanical is committed to guiding you through the options with professional advice and top-quality service. Whether upgrading or installing new pipes, rely on our expertise for durable, worry-free plumbing solutions.

Contact our Wichita plumbers today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a reliable, efficient plumbing system.

Customer Testimonials

Hear from satisfied customers who trust us for reliable HVAC and plumbing service across Wichita.

stars
Lee and Midwest Mechanical has done a wonderful job every time. I've used them for a good ten years and love it. Thank you Midwest Mechanical! Very friendly and do a wonderful job! Oh and I called yesterday and they were here the next day. Very good service 👏 …
Michael K.
stars
Angel did my annual spring maintenance for my heating & air. He arrived on time and was very professional and thorough in his job. I have been using Midwest Mechanical’s services for the past 4 years and plan on continuing in the future.
Pam J.
stars
Crew arrived early--that's a good thing. They were courteous and got to work quickly. They were considerate by wiping their shoes entering & returning. They cleaned up after themselves and explained what they did and offered preventative tips. I'm VERY PLEASED with their work. I will definitely recommend them to my friends.
MaryKay L.
stars
Technician was great, kind, courteous, punctual. He even brought in a package off my front porch for me. I'm on crutches. Much appreciated. Have used before and will use them again.
Scott M.
stars
stars
WOW!  Midwest Mechanical just installed a Flux Capacitor on my A.C. compressor so they could fix the problem before it even started!!!
Plus, the technician, Lee was very professional, knowledgeable and informative.
We will definitely be doing business with them sometime again in the past.
G. A.
stars
stars
Midwest mechanical was professional and courteous. My technician Sam was very knowledgeable.
I'm prompt to my appointment. Thank you  Midwest Mechanical.
Eric G
stars
A friend recommended Midwest Mechanical. Long story short, the design of the vent from my half bath caused the drain pipe to freeze. Not only were these guys fast in getting here, they even replaced boxes they had to move to get to the plumbing. There's not a lot of cleanup for Mr to do either. Thanks, MM!
Cheryl M.
stars
The technician, Angel, was on time and got my furnace working promptly with no new parts.  He helped me understand my furnace and gave me advice on the proper filter for my system.  Thank you Angel!  I definitely recommend Midwest Mechanical.
John H.
stars
Midwest Mechanical has always had a prompt response and knowledgeable employees.  They have been able to quickly diagnose and fix any issue I've had.  I wouldn't hesitate to tell anyone to call them for good service.
Kyle M.
stars
We have used Midwest Mechanical for over 15 years and Shon and his crew always give excellent service. Lee and Angel are exceptional technicians that always go above and beyond what is expected.
Linda C.
stars
stars
Always get us scheduled quickly; their technician is friendly, polite, and knowledgeable. I appreciate that they’re willing to explain what they’re doing and never seem bothered by my questions.
Ruth T.
stars
stars
Midwest Mechanical has serviced my HVAC system for roughly 18 months now, and they are prompt, reasonably priced, thorough, and dedicated to keeping my older unit working in top condition.
John A.
Customer Testimonials
See why customers trust our licensed and background-checked technicians and the quality service we deliver every time.
stars
Midwest Mechanical has serviced my HVAC system for roughly 18 months now, and they are prompt, reasonably priced, thorough, and dedicated to keeping my older unit working in top condition.
John A.
stars
Always get us scheduled quickly; their technician is friendly, polite, and knowledgeable. I appreciate that they’re willing to explain what they’re doing and never seem bothered by my questions.
Ruth T.
stars
We have used Midwest Mechanical for over 15 years and Shon and his crew always give excellent service. Lee and Angel are exceptional technicians that always go above and beyond what is expected.
Linda C.
stars
Midwest Mechanical has always had a prompt response and knowledgeable employees.  They have been able to quickly diaignose and fix any issue I've had.  I wouldn't hesitate to tell anyone to call them for good service.
Kyle M.
stars
The technician, Angel, was on time and got my furnace working promptly with no new parts.  He helped me understand my furnace and gave me advice on the proper filter for my system.  Thank you Angel!  I definitely recommend Midwest Mechanical.
John H.
stars
Midwest mechanical was professional and courteous. My technician Sam was very knowledgeable.
I'm prompt to my appointment. Thank you  Midwest Mechanical.
Eric G.
GoodLeap logo

Financing

For your convenience, we work with a variety of lenders in offering a large selection of flexible financing options with approved credit.

Design Element | Midwest MechanicalDesign Element | Midwest MechanicalDesign Element | Midwest Mechanical