PVC — Polyvinyl Chloride
A plumbing mainstay since the 1960s, PVC is the most widely used plastic piping in the plumbing and construction industry. In the U.S., PVC is made from natural gas and salt (yes, “salt”). PVC is corrosion-resistant and widely accepted by building codes for most piping applications (except hot water).
CPVC — Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
CPVC is the abbreviation used to describe the synthetic plastic material known as Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride. Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) is the further reacted form of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and expresses a few key similarities and differences to this widely utilized plastic. CPVC is a polymer and a plastic that is frequently used in the manufacture of pipes for plumbing and vents, of liners, structural materials, and chemically resistant equipment.
PEX — Cross-linked Polyethylene
PEX is a flexible plastic material made from medium- or high-density polyethylene. PEX piping has been used in hot- and cold-water distribution systems and for hydronic radiant heating in Europe for decades. Introduced into the U.S. in the 1980s, PEX is the most widely used flexible piping for plumbing and radiant floor heating applications. Due to its flexibility, it’s often a popular choice for remodels because it can be easily snaked through the walls. PEX tubing is recognized as acceptable for water distribution piping in all major model plumbing codes. Learn about the PEX manufacturing process.
