🔧Pipes & Plumbing

GI Pipe vs CPVC Pipe — Should You Replace GI with CPVC for Home Plumbing?

GI (galvanised iron) pipes are the traditional metal plumbing standard that corrode over time, reducing water quality. CPVC offers corrosion-free, lightweight plumbing with 50+ year lifespan for both hot and cold water.

Option A
GI (Galvanised Iron) Pipe
₹120-250 ₹ per metre (½ inch)
VS
Option B
CPVC Pipe
₹80-150 ₹ per metre (½ inch)
🏆

Winner: CPVC Pipe

CPVC is the clear winner for new construction. For homes older than 15 years with GI plumbing showing rust, replacement with CPVC is strongly recommended.

Side-by-Side Specifications

SpecGI (Galvanised Iron) PipeCPVC Pipe
Lifespan15–25 years50+ years✓
Corrosion ResistanceCorrodes over timeCorrosion-free✓
Water Quality ImpactRust can contaminate waterZero impact✓
InstallationThreading required (skilled labour)Solvent cement (easy)✓
Price₹120–250/m₹80–150/m✓
Price (₹ per metre (½ inch))₹120-250₹80-150

Pros & Cons

AGI (Galvanised Iron) Pipe

✅ Pros

  • + Very high pressure rating
  • + Fire resistant
  • + Suitable for gas lines
  • + Familiar to older plumbers

❌ Cons

  • − Corrodes and rusts — reduces water pressure over time
  • − Rust contaminates drinking water
  • − More expensive
  • − Requires specialized threading tools

BCPVC Pipe

✅ Pros

  • + Corrosion-free for life
  • + Lighter and easier to install
  • + Cheaper material
  • + No rust in drinking water
  • + Better for hot water

❌ Cons

  • − Not suitable for gas lines
  • − Cannot withstand fire (melts)
  • − Requires solvent cement — no threading

Best Use Cases

Choose GI (Galvanised Iron) Pipe for:

  • ▸ Gas supply lines
  • ▸ Fire fighting systems
  • ▸ High-pressure industrial applications

Choose CPVC Pipe for:

  • ▸ All residential plumbing (new construction)
  • ▸ Hot and cold water supply
  • ▸ Replacing old corroded GI pipes
  • ▸ Concealed plumbing in walls

Popular Indian Brands

GI (Galvanised Iron) Pipe

Tata GI PipesJindal GIAPL Apollo GI

CPVC Pipe

Astral CPVC ProSupreme CPVCPrince CPVCFinolex CPVC