What material is typically favored for flexible vent piping?

Flexible vent piping is commonly made from ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) due to its unique properties that make it ideal for such applications. ABS is lightweight, easy to install, and resistant to impact and certain chemicals, which are advantageous for venting systems. Its flexibility allows for easier routing around obstacles and facilitates quick adjustments during installation, making it a preferred choice in many scenarios.

While other materials have their applications, they may not offer the same combination of durability and flexibility as ABS. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is rigid and less flexible, making it less suitable for applications where adaptability is needed. CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) is typically used for hot water systems, not venting applications. Galvanized steel, though durable, is heavy and can be more challenging to work with in flexible applications, often leading to increased installation time and effort. Thus, ABS stands out for vent piping applications because of its balance between flexibility, ease of installation, and performance in various environmental conditions.