The Latin word “plumbum” which means lead is the root for the word plumbing. Centuries ago plumbers used lead for making their pipes. The adverse effect of lead on health reduced its usage drastically, and other materials were used to manufacture these plumbing items.
During ancient times pipes made of clay; earth and copper were used for plumbing works and this has continued to influence plumbing activities in many parts of the world. About 5 centuries ago, people of London used wooden pipes for supplying water. Similar wooden pipes were used in America during the 1800s and this had continued till the middle of the last century. Most of these were used in drainage activities especially in culverts, sewers, and conduits, and for allowing water to pass under highways. The armed forces also used these pipes for plumbing.
Cast iron pipes came into use mainly due to their low cost when compared to pipes made of copper. Iron gave way to steel pipes especially steel that is galvanized to prevent formation of rust.
Galvanized steel was not only expensive but also required more expertise to handle. However, it was widely used mainly for its durability and strength. These pipes last for up to 50 years but the inner side is prone to rust formation and clogging due to collection of deposits. This happens due to the erosion of the zinc coating.
Copper pipes which had widespread usage during the beginning of the 20th century, lost its sheen as the price of copper started to shoot up, and people started to look for cheaper materials for their plumbing works. Pipes made of galvanized steel was in much use along with iron pipes.
During the yearly years of the 19th century plastic was discovered. This discovery paved the way for cost effective plastic pipes to flood the market. The demand for Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) increased drastically and today it is widespread usage in the plumbing industry.
Unlike in the earlier years when water was supplied by the using the force of gravity, in today’s world, the use of water pumps have changed the ways that water is supplied to houses.
Accordingly, plumbing has also undergone tremendous changes. The use of strong pipes made of copper, galvanized steel, and plastic has increased drastically and these have become the most commonly used materials for plumbing works now.
Interestingly, 60% of household plumbing works now use plastic as it is much easier to use.
The materials used for plumbing have changed over the centuries and in today’s world, there is a greater reliance on PVC and other plastic products. This has changed the way plumbing activities are being carried out.