We recently remodeled our bathroom and all pipes in and out were replaced with PVC. The original water supply pipes are galvanized. I guess our code calls for copper or galvanized water supply lines. Am I screwed if I ever want to sell? Will I be forced to replace with copper?

Jeremy...

First of all...PVC is not rated for hot water installation. If you truly used PVC on hot water you can expect to see issues over time.

In terms of having to repipe... I'm betting you can use the PVC for cold water but may be required to install CPVC pipe for the hot water. Of course, depends on your local plumbing codes.

How did you connect to your water heater or boiler? You didn't use PVC to connect to these did you?

Let me know what you think...

MARK

I'll have to take a closer look when I get home to see if it's PVC versus CPVC. It is in fact white though. And it just joins to the existing galvanized pipe underneath the bathroom.

The only thing affected is the bathroom sink and shower. Am I going to start growing extra limbs? My cousin did the work. He is a carpenter and told me it is used in new construction in Wisconsin. However, he has developed a reputation for taking shortcuts and probably won't be helping us with any future work.

Check to see if PVC... You can't use PVC on hot water anywhere... PERIOD. It can leak at the worst times!

Otherwise, if only sink and shower I would let the cold water slide as PVC. Repipe hot water to cpvc... ;)

Call your local plumbing inspector and tell him you are thinking about having a plumber repipe bathroom and just want to know so you are prepared to discusss alternatives... ask if you can use pvc for cold and cpvc for hot... I'm betting that is OK..?

Let me know what you find out will you? Thanks...

MARK

Yes,you should never install pvc unless it' for irrigation or yard. Pvc should only be used outside, and even then there should be a device installed so that water does not make itself into the house. The glues you use on pvc are harmful and you can not drink that water. Copper is the right pipe for the job eddie

Well Eddie I think you're dead wrong. You been sniffing some of that PVC cement? PVC and CPVC have been used to water pipe houses for years. Where did you get your information from? Since it's obvious you're not a plumber I guess you can be excused but next time check before you post. Regards, Tom