PEX vs. Galvanized Steel Drain Lines: Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to plumbing, choosing the right materials for your drain lines can make all the

difference in durability, cost, and long-term maintenance. Many homeowners in Middle

Tennessee wonder whether PEX piping or galvanized steel is the better choice for their

Homes.

At Twenty-Four Hour Plumbing LLC, we help customers understand the pros and cons of

each material so they can make the best decision for their plumbing system. Let’s break down

the differences and help you determine which one is right for your home.

What is Galvanized Steel Piping?

Galvanized steel pipes were once the gold standard for plumbing and drainage systems.

These pipes are made of steel coated in zinc, which was initially meant to prevent rust and

corrosion. Many older homes, particularly those built before the 1960s, still have galvanized

steel pipes in their plumbing systems.

Pros of Galvanized Steel Pipes

✔️ Strong & Durable – Thick steel construction makes these pipes resistant to physical

damage.

✔️ Can Handle High Water Pressure – Ideal for homes with high-pressure plumbing

systems.

✔️ Fire-Resistant – Unlike plastic piping, steel doesn’t burn, making it a safe option for fire

prevention.

Cons of Galvanized Steel Pipes

❌ Prone to Corrosion & Rust – Over time, the zinc coating wears away, causing rust

buildup inside the pipes.

❌ Restricted Water Flow – Corrosion can cause blockages and reduced water pressure.

❌ Heavy & Difficult to Install – Steel pipes require special tools and professional

installation, making them costlier and harder to replace.

💡 Galvanized steel pipes were once a top choice, but modern plumbing materials offer

better durability, efficiency, and ease of maintenance.

What is PEX Piping?

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a flexible plastic tubing that has become the most popular

plumbing material for modern homes. It’s widely used for water supply lines and drain

systems because of its affordability, ease of installation, and durability.

Pros of PEX Pipes

✔️ Corrosion-Resistant – Unlike steel, PEX doesn’t rust or corrode, ensuring long-lasting

performance.

✔️ Flexible & Easy to Install – PEX tubing bends easily, making it ideal for tight spaces and

retrofitting older homes.

✔️ Lower Cost – PEX is more affordable than galvanized steel in both material and labor

costs.

✔️ Freeze-Resistant – Because PEX expands when frozen, it is less likely to burst during

freezing temperatures.

✔️ Low Maintenance – No need for constant upkeep—PEX piping requires minimal

maintenance over time.

Cons of PEX Pipes

❌ Can Be Damaged by UV Light – PEX is not designed for outdoor use unless covered or

insulated.

❌ Not Fireproof – Unlike steel, PEX melts under extreme heat, so it may not be suitable for

some high-heat applications.

❌ Requires Specialized Fittings – While easy to install, PEX requires unique fittings that

should be installed by a professional.

💡 PEX piping is a great modern solution for homeowners looking for an affordable,

flexible, and low-maintenance plumbing system.

Which One is Right for You?

Choose Galvanized Steel If:

● You have an older home that already has steel piping and want to maintain its original

materials.

● You need high water pressure performance for a specific plumbing setup.

● You are concerned about fire resistance in certain areas of your home.

Choose PEX If:

● You want a cost-effective, long-lasting plumbing system that won’t corrode over time.

● You live in an area prone to freezing temperatures and need a system that can

expand and contract without bursting.

● You are building a new home or upgrading an outdated plumbing system with

modern materials.

💡 For most homeowners in Middle Tennessee, PEX is the superior choice due to its

flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and corrosion resistance.

Let Twenty-Four Hour Plumbing LLC Help with Your Plumbing Needs!

Still unsure which piping is best for your home? Our expert plumbers at Twenty-Four Hour

Plumbing LLC are here to help! Whether you're looking to upgrade to PEX or need

maintenance on your existing galvanized system, we’ll ensure your plumbing is built to last.

📞 Call us at (615) 785-3827 or visit twentyfourhourplumbingllc.com to schedule a

consultation today!

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