Installation of a metal-plastic water pipe.
In general, the construction of a metal-plastic pipe is a combination of three basic elements of different material, namely:
- the inner surface of the pipe is made of polyethylene;
- the outer surface is covered with a plastic layer;
- between them is an aluminum interlayer.
With the help of special glue all three layers are connected together. Such a composition of the binder element is developed with the use of high-tech processes and possesses sufficiently reliable strength characteristics. Aluminum, which is part of the middle layer, adds to the pipes a certain flexibility during installation, the inner polyethylene layer ensures unimpeded passage of liquid, and the outer plastic does not allow the water pipe to collapse under the influence of external factors. Installation of a plastic water pipe with your own hands due to these qualities of the material will become a simple and reliable construction in your summer residence.
Before starting the installation of the water pipe, it is necessary to install a ball valve that cuts off the water supply at the beginning of the section. After that, meters( if necessary), filters and check valves are installed. After carrying out these manipulations, we proceed to the pipe routing through the cottage area. 
Before starting the installation of a plastic water pipe, you need to make a schematic layout of the pipes and get the required number of pipes. Also get the connecting elements for the supply of pipes to the plumbing units. Tools that will be required for the self-installation of plastic water pipes:
- two adjustable wrench;
- hand hacksaw or electric power tool for cutting pipes;
- silicone seal for fittings;Pencil, tape measure, knife.
Metal shears are not suitable for cutting plastic pipes, because they deform the outer layer.
We connect the pipes with each other using fittings - the elements of the water distribution system. Metal-plastic pipes are connected by two kinds of fittings - compression or pressing. What kind of choice depends on whether you have the necessary tools and sufficient skills.
Compression fittings.
For the connection of pipes to the water pipe by hand with the use of compression fittings, it is necessary to provide two adjustable keys and a tool to remove the bevel at an angle of 30º from the inner surface of the pipe. This can be done, for example, with a velvet file, or a nail file, so that the rubber seal on the fitting can easily fit into the pipe. The gasket itself is lubricated with silicone and covered from above with a nut and brass ring. We screw the nut on the fitting first with our hands, then press it with the adjustable wrench. The second key is the fitting itself. 
Application of press fittings.
If you have a press pliers in your arsenal of tools, then you can ensure a reliable connection of plastic pipes between each other by press fittings. There is an opinion that such a connection is more reliable from possible leaks. To perform this operation it is necessary:
- very precisely and accurately cut the pipe at a right angle;
- remove the chamfer from the inner edge of the pipe;
- on the pipe we put special pressing sleeve;
- all together we put into the fitting until it stops, be sure to make sure that the sleeve has entered the required grooves;
- clamps the sleeve with a press pliers to ensure maximum tight connection.
Some useful tips for installing plastic water pipes with your own hands.
- minimize the use of fittings, since any wiring reduces the pressure of water;
- conduct a regular inspection of the entire water supply system and, at the slightest leakage, tighten the union nuts;
- when masking a plastic water pipe under plasterboard or other finish, ensure that special fitting holes are installed in the fitting places for possible maintenance and repair.
