About this Project

The first step in choosing pipe is to find out which type of pipe you have in your home. It's often easiest to use the same type when adding on, but you don't have to continue using that type. To change type, you must purchase special adapter fittings to switch from one material to another in the middle of a pipe run.

For supply lines -- the pipes that carry pressurized water to your fixtures -- the usual choices are copper and plastic. However, if your home is old enough to have galvanized pipe and you need to install only a short run of pipe, it makes sense to continue with galvanized. In many localities, plastic supply pipe is not allowed. Keep in mind that copper pipe will be difficult for you to install until you have spent time learning how to solder (see Working with Rigid Copper Pipe, Related Projects).

When making final connections to a fixture or a faucet, usually it is easiest to install a flexible supply line. Use copper or plastic flexible tubing. Be careful to avoid kinks.

Plastic pipe -- either PVC or ABS -- is now used almost exclusively for drains. If you have old cast-iron, galvanized, or copper drain pipes, make the transition to plastic. It is much easier to install and less expensive.

Before you buy any pipe, check with the local building department to make sure you're using material approved for use in your area.