Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jan 06, 1999 09:23am | #1

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   Flowgard is a brand of plastic pipe - chlorinated
   polyvinyl chloride (CPVC). In some areas where you have "agressive" water, plastic is a better choice than copper. However, I would consider using PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) before I would use CPVC - fewer fittings and less expensive for both labor and materials.

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   Guest_ | Jan 07, 1999 02:26am | #2

   *Concur w/ 'allaround'. PEX usually won't break under freezing conditions. I used PEX in my own house and ran it underground to several spigots in my yard . It's only 6" - 12" under the surface and we get 3' frosts. I don't drain the pipes and they work great each spring.I recommend to all my clients to go with PEX rather than copper. Still a tough sell but PEX will someday (maybe soon) subplant copper as the plumbing supply of choice. Copper knows that too - notice all the full page glossy ads the past few years? Notice the new 50 year limited warrentee (read the fine print).Flowguard is OK but PEX is best.

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   Guest_ | Jan 07, 1999 03:34am | #3

   *A vote for CPVC (NOT PVC). It's inexpensive, easy to install (one tool...fine tooth saw), delivers purer water than Cu, and is available everywhere. The problem I had with PEX was lack of general availability and transition fittings for fixtures.

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   Harlen_Mallis | Jan 09, 1999 01:43am | #4

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   I need a drinkable supply for backyard use, will the CPVC and PEX work? Is the copper problem only the lead in the solder?
   thanks
   h

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   Guest_ | Jan 09, 1999 03:00am | #5

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   Harlen: There hasn't (shouldn't have) been lead in solder for potable water pipes since 1985. Any of the piping system approved by NSF are good enough for me. But if you're paranoid about heavy metals (maybe you have acidic water) - lower IQ in kids, memory loss, getting your mords wixed, paranoia, (like the mad-hatter in Alice), GI-tract upset - then go plastic. But if the very low levels of organic solvents that leach out of the pipe, and especially the glue, concern you because of their possible teratogenic, mutagenic and carcinogenic nature, then go metal. If you're still worried, tip your head back and open your motor during a rain storm. But seriously, just check with your building department on what they accept for potable water - the code authorities have looked at this in great detail and any remaining risk, now that the lead is out of new piping systems, is very low. You take more risk by eating in a resturant that allows smoking. -David

1. 
   Guest_ | Jan 09, 1999 03:19am | #7

   *Harlen,If you live in a frost prone area you should definately go for PEX. it can withstand (check with suppler though)freeze / thaw. Copper and cpvc may burst unless drained for winter. Even then, some residual water in 'drained' pipes can freeze.I Concur w/ David re toxic problems / nonproblems with each choice.

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   Mike_Canty | Jan 09, 1999 03:19am | #6

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   My contractor is suggesting something called "flowguard" (or a name similer to this - I'm not sure...) Anyone ever use this for a feed? Comments or suggestions ???