Ways to Identify Different Pipe Material
Below are some helpful hints and photos to help you identify common water line materials.
Galvanized Pipe
- Galvanized pipe is dull, silver-gray color.
- Magnets will stick to this pipe.
- Where it is connected to a fitting you will see threads.
- You may see rust color where the pipe has oxidized.
- Tapping on galvanized pipe with a metal object will produce a metallic "clinging" noise.
Lead Pipe
- Lead is a dull, silver-gray color.
- Easily scratched with a coin.
- Magnets will NOT stick to lead pipe.
- Connections to other pipes or fittings look large and are typically either "ball" shaped or "flared".
- Tapping on the lead pipe with a metal object will produce a dull sound.
Copper Pipe
- Copper is the color of a penny but can have a teal/green patina.
- Connections to fitting can be made by soldering, compression, or crimping (ProPress).
Plastic Pipe
- Plastic pipe comes in a variety of colors but most commonly blue, white, or black.
- Text is usually stamped on the pipe indicating what type of plastic and the pressure rating.
- Magnets will NOT stick to plastic pipe.
- Tapping on plastic pipe will produce a dull sound.
- Connections to fittings can be made by solvent weld (glueing), crimping, or compression.
