The use of cast iron pipes for plumbing has been gradually declining over the years, with a shift towards other materials such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastics, copper, and various types of steel. The decline in the use of cast iron pipes started in the mid-20th century and continued into the 21st century. The timeline can vary depending on the region and local building practices. Here's a rough overview of the decline of cast iron pipes:
Mid-20th century: Cast iron pipes were commonly used for plumbing in residential and commercial buildings during the mid-20th century. Their strength and durability made them a popular choice.
1960s-1970s: The use of PVC and ABS plastic pipes began to gain popularity due to their lightweight nature, ease of installation, and resistance to corrosion. These plastic pipes started replacing cast iron in many residential applications.
1980s-1990s: Copper pipes became more commonly used for water supply lines due to their excellent corrosion resistance and flexibility. They are still widely used in modern plumbing systems.
Late 20th century to early 21st century: The use of cast iron pipes in plumbing systems continued to decline, especially in residential construction, as other materials offered more benefits in terms of cost, ease of installation, and maintenance.
cast iron pipes are still used in some specific applications, particularly for larger water mains and sewer lines in certain municipalities or for specific building renovation projects where preserving the historical authenticity of older buildings is important. However, in most new construction and modern plumbing systems, cast iron pipes have been largely replaced by other materials that better suit the specific needs of contemporary plumbing practices.