What material is commonly used for water pipes?

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is widely used for water pipes due to its numerous beneficial properties. It is lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and has a high tensile strength, making it suitable for various water distribution applications. Additionally, PVC does not rust or corrode over time, which ensures a longer lifespan compared to other materials. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to work with, which contributes to lower installation costs. This versatility and efficiency make PVC the preferred choice for many water distribution systems.

While other materials like steel, ceramic, and rubber have their applications, they typically do not offer the same combination of cost-effectiveness, durability, and ease of installation that PVC does in water distribution. For example, steel can be prone to rusting, which can compromise water quality and pipe integrity over time. Ceramic, on the other hand, is often used for different purposes such as fittings rather than full piping systems, and rubber may not provide sufficient structural support for the pressures found in water distribution networks. Therefore, PVC stands out as the most commonly used material for water pipes in many systems.