Important Supply Tube Types For Faucets

Installing or replacing a faucet can be a challenging DIY project. One of the key components is selecting the right type of supply tube to deliver water from the main lines up to your new faucet. There are a few main options on the market with their own sets of pros and cons to consider before making a final decision.

Common Materials Used for Faucet Supply Lines

The most common materials used to manufacture faucet supply tubes include:

Copper

Copper has long been the traditional choice for supply lines in household plumbing systems. This durable metal is resistant to corrosion and can withstand very high water pressures and temperatures. Copper is rated on a thickness scale from M to L, with M being the thinnest and L the thickest. Type M copper is the minimum recommended gauge for faucet supply lines. Ensure any copper supply tubing is clearly marked with the correct thickness rating before purchase.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel offers increased flexibility over copper pipes. Supply tubes made of stainless steel are convenient to install around tight corners or in cramped cabinet spaces. Though not quite as durable as copper over the very long-term, stainless steel is still highly resistant to corrosion from exposure to water over time. Opt for low-carbon 304 or 316 stainless steel composition for potable water applications.

Plastic - PEX and PVC

More recently, flexible plastic tubing has grown in popularity for use as faucet supply lines. The most common options are cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Plastic tubes are inexpensive and the easiest for do-it-yourself installations. However, they may not hold up over many years of use when compared to metal varieties. Both PEX and PVC tubing are rated to minimum working temperatures and pressures, which must be confirmed before installation.

Key Factors To Consider When Selecting Faucet Supply Pipes

When deciding which material to choose for your new faucet hook-up, here are some of the main considerations:

Minimum Bend Radius

An important specification to note is the minimum bend radius of each supply line material. Copper, for example, should not be bent tighter than 5-6 times the outer diameter. PEX and stainless steel can handle much tighter bends down to 2-3 times their diameter. This flexibility makes installation simpler through confined areas.

Internal Diameter

The inner bore diameter is another vital statistic to match up. Standard sink supply tubes utilize 1/2" or 5/8" inner diameters. Bathtub filler lines may range from 1/2" to 1" across. Confirm your faucet inlet size before selecting new supply tubing with the proper corresponding ID.

Durability

How long do you expect the faucet and accompanying supply tubes to last? Copper offers superior longevity, followed by stainless steel. Plastic tubing tends to be less durable over two decades of use. Build quality also plays a role, with seamless drawn tubing outlasting lower cost extruded variants.

Ease of Installation

Flexible supply tubes make connecting the diagonal distance from shut-off valves to faucet far simpler, especially for DIYers. Rigid copper can be challenging to smoothly install around cabinet corners whereas PEX lines feature effortless maneuverability. But flexible also means more opportunity to kink or crimp during installation, potentially severely reducing flow.

Cost

Plastic tubing is generally the most budget-friendly option. Stainless steel costs a bit more. Copper tends to be one of the pricier choices which is why some homeowners opt for an alternative despite the durability advantage.

Pros and Cons Breakdown of Faucet Supply Line Options

Copper Faucet Supply Lines

Pros:

• Very durable - can last 50+ years
• Resists corrosion from water exposure
• Can withstand very high water pressures

Cons:

• Rigid form factor makes for difficult DIY installations
• Prone to pitting without proper pH balanced water
• Joints can develop leaks over time

Stainless Steel Faucet Supply Lines

Pros:

• Added flexibility versus copper for easier installation
• Resistant to corrosion over decades of use
• More durable than plastic options

Cons:

• Potential to crimp and restrict flow if kinked
• Costs moderately more than basic plastic tubing

Plastic - PEX and PVC Faucet Supply Lines

Pros:

• Very inexpensive option
• Easy for DIYers to install around corners

Cons:

• Durability is lower than copper or stainless
• Not as resistant to heat damage and deformation
• Can become brittle and crack over time

Recommendations for Supply Tube Types by Faucet Location

The optimum choice for your faucet supply line depends greatly on the specific location in the home. Consider these recommendations by faucet type:

Kitchen Faucets

In the kitchen, flexible braided stainless steel is an excellent option for the increased chance of grease exposure from dishes. More economical PEX also handles kitchen usage well. For very long expected lifespans, rigid Type M copper will withstand frequent use and high temperatures.

Bathroom Faucets

For bathrooms, time-tested copper tubing is the ideal selection for bathtub filler valves that see minimal manipulation during installation. PEX remains a top choice for connecting bathroom sink faucets along the diagonal back to supply stops.

Outdoor Faucets

When installing exterior hose bibbs, focus on maximizing corrosion resistance. Stainless steel supplies work well for outdoor faucets in moist environments. Seamless copper with frozen pipe sleeves also provides longevity in harsh above-ground conditions.

Finding the optimal faucet supply lines requires careful consideration of usage conditions, installation factors, and desired lifespan. Stainless steel provides an unbeatable blend of strength, value, and flexibility for many common sink or tub remodels. Consult local codes and manufacturer ratings before selecting supply tubing. With sound planning and periodic maintenance, your new faucet links should provide decades of reliable service.