Last Updated: February 25, 2026 — Reviewed by Brian Hayes, Licensed Master Plumber
When it comes to residential plumbing pipes, there seem to be an assortment in existence today. And when all of them claim to deliver the best functionality, it makes it challenging to decide which one to get for your home. Each pipe has its own pros and cons.
Among the selection of materials available, plastic pipes are among the most common. And in this blog we will focus the spotlight on these pipes. What kinds of plastic pipes are there? Should we consider them for our homes? Let’s find out.
PVC or Polyvinyl Chloride Pipes are often used for the main water supply line for your home. It is also an excellent choice for your home’s bathtub, toilet, and sink drain lines and vent stacks. They are really good at carrying high water pressure. They are quite durable as they do not corrode, rust, or degrade over time. They are quite inexpensive and very easy to work with. However, you have to keep PVC pipes away from hot water as the latter can easily warp them.
CPVC or Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Pipes are a good choice for pipes to be used for your drinking water as their extra chlorine makes it safer. They are also easy to work with and are recommended for those who like DIY projects. Unlike PVC, CPVC can be used for both cold and hot water supplies. They are also more flexible than PVC. What’s not so good about them? There is a possibility that they would split when they freeze. They are not recyclable, either.
PEX or Cross-Linked Polyethylene Pipes are amazingly versatile pipes that can easily snake through walls and can be extended across your home using just one piece! They are very heat-resistant so that means they can be used for either hot or cold water supply. They are best used for retrofits. However there are some discussions about the safety of using PEX pipes as some environmentalists fear that because of how they are produced, there may be some risks of contaminating your drinking water.
Other plastic pipes include Grey Plastic Polubutylene or PB Pipes which are an inexpensive substitute for copper as they are very easy to install and work with, as well as quite prone to leaks. Another type is the HDPE or High-Density Polybutylene Pipes which are also flexible and resistant to corrosion, giving it a longer lifespan.
If you still are unsure about what type of pipe you should get for your home, or if you should consider plastic pipes, we suggest that you call one of our experts at Hayes Plumbing to know what will work best for your specific needs.
Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call a plumber for plastic pipes?
You should call a licensed plumber for plastic pipes when the issue persists after basic troubleshooting, involves water pressure changes, or requires access to pipes behind walls. Hayes Plumbing serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering.
How much does plastic pipes cost in Durham Region?
The cost of plastic pipes in Durham Region depends on the complexity of the job and parts required. Hayes Plumbing provides upfront pricing before beginning any work so there are no surprises.
Should I try DIY or hire a professional for plastic pipes?
While minor issues can sometimes be addressed with DIY methods, plastic pipes often requires a licensed plumber to ensure the work meets Ontario plumbing code. Hayes Plumbing is fully licensed, WSIB certified, and BBB accredited.
Need help with plumbing repairs or installations? Hayes Plumbing & Bathroom Renovations serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering. Contact us or call (905) 576-3043 for a free estimate.
