5 reasons to choose plastic plumbing fittings & pipe

The advantages of plastic pipes and fittings are well known throughout the industry; they are versatile, durable, practically leak-proof, and easy to transport and install. As with most things, though, it’s probably easier to put into perspective the benefits that plastic brings to buildings by looking at the challenges we would encounter without JG Speedfit’s range of plastic push-fit fittings, and pipes. In this blog post, we outline the reasons why we are so enthusiastic when it comes to plastic, by highlighting some of the things you just couldn’t do without it.

Gone are the days when the plumber’s toolbox is heavier than their van. With plastic, plumbers and installers can arrive for a job with considerably less weight to carry, since fewer specialist tools are required to install plastic fittings.

Unlike press-fit methods of plumbing, plastic push-fit fittings require no tools at all for installations. Once cutting, measuring and deburring of the pipes has been completed, you only have to twist & lock® the push-fit fitting to make the connection. In contrast, copper pipes and fittings require the use of a soldering iron, spanners, PTFE tape, and other items that can weigh down the toolbox.

By opting for plastic push-fit fittings, plumbers can enjoy a more streamlined workflow, improved efficiency, and reduced physical strain. The convenience, reliability, and compatibility of plastic fittings make them an ideal choice for modern plumbing installations.

New building developments are increasingly specifying plastic over copper for first-fix plumbing, not only for ease of installation but because plastic can increase the value of a property over time. This is because plastic materials are highly resistant to corrosion, scale buildup, and chemical reactions, which can compromise the integrity of traditional copper systems. By employing plastic for first-fix plumbing, developers can offer homeowners a reliable and low-maintenance solution that withstands the test of time. This, in turn, contributes to the long-term value and desirability of the property.

You only have to look at JG Speedfit’s work on the Royal Wharf development in London for evidence of this! JG Speedfit's involvement in this prestigious project highlights the confidence and trust placed in plastic materials for first-fix plumbing. By utilising innovative plastic push-fit fittings, the development showcases the reliability, efficiency, and long-term benefits of plastic installations. The choice to incorporate plastic in such a high-profile development demonstrates the growing recognition of plastic's value and its ability to meet the demands of modern construction.

How?

Although when we talk about plastic, we are actually referring to cross-linked polyethylene in regard to fittings, and polybutylene and polyethylene for pipes. These are specially engineered materials which have been specifically designed to ensure robustness over extended periods. They are so strong; they can withstand our internal pressure tests up to 60 bar (although our technical specification still needs to be followed).

What that means is that plastic pipes and fittings do not corrode easily and can last a lot longer than those engineered with alternative materials such as copper. This can have a significant impact on the overall value of a new build since there is confidence that the plumbing system will not fail.

It is generally accepted that plastic push-fit fittings are as much as 40% faster to fit and install than those made from alternative materials. Not only is this because they do not require specialist tooling to fit, but because they are engineered to make the installer’s life easy.

For example, the material properties of plastic compared to copper mean that it can be manufactured in different colours for added installation convenience.

JG Speedfit offers both red and blue pipes for projects where quick and easy identification of hot and cold, or flow and return pipework is required. This colour-coding system eliminates confusion during installation, allowing installers to work more efficiently and accurately.

The widespread acceptance of plastic push-fit fittings as a superior alternative to traditional materials highlights the industry's recognition of the benefits they bring. Plumbing professionals can enjoy the ease of installation, reduced labour time, and enhanced convenience offered by these fittings. As the demand for efficient and streamlined installation methods continues to grow, plastic push-fit fittings remain at the forefront of the industry, empowering installers to work more effectively and deliver exceptional plumbing solutions.

The beauty of using plastic push-fit fittings for the first fix is the fact that an installer can quickly resolve an issue in the event of making an installation error, such as a misaligned pipe or an incorrect connection. To address the problem, the installer can simply disengage the fitting by carefully releasing its locking mechanism. This enables the removal of the fitting from the pipe, providing access for necessary adjustments or corrections. If the pipe remains undamaged, the installer can then proceed to either replace the fitting with a new one or re-fit it in the correct position. The straightforward demounting and reinstallation process significantly reduces downtime.

The simplicity and convenience of demounting plastic push-fit fittings not only saves time and effort but also contributes to cost savings. Installers can avoid the expenses associated with replacing entire sections of pipes or undertaking extensive repairs. Instead, they can swiftly address installation errors by repositioning or replacing individual fittings, promoting efficient workflow and reducing project costs.

Many modern buildings follow a similar structure to pre-1960s buildings, which typically had wooden joists on the floor, and floorboards on top. With modern buildings, the joists are specially engineered and therefore more stable than normal wooden joists, but equally difficult to thread a copper pipe through.

With plastic, though, plumbers and installers can thread pipework through the joists like cabling systems, and can even hide away unsightly pipework behind walls, to add a more pleasing interior aesthetic. If you’ve ever tried threading a copper pipe through a joist, you’ll know how much easier it is with plastic. The smooth and flexible nature of plastic makes the task considerably more straightforward and less time-consuming. Plumbers and installers can navigate the pipework through the joists with greater efficiency, resulting in improved productivity and overall project timelines.