Copper metal is one of the best materials for manufacturing plumbing pipes. Copper plumbing began to be used around 4,000 years ago. Ancient Egyptians used to distribute water using copper pipes during the agrarian revolution.
Copper pipes are pretty terrible. Copper reacts with minerals and chemical additives in the water. After a long time, the copper pipe will wear out. You end up with a leak.
Disadvantages of Copper Pipes
Copper piping is expensive. It can cost 10 to 15 times more when compared to other types of pipes. Copper may also freeze easily. If your home runs on well water, copper pipes could have problems if the water is acidic.
Copper pipes are widely used for water supply and distribution systems. Their excellent corrosion resistance ensures the water remains clean and safe for consumption. Copper pipes are highly compatible with hot and cold water, but caution should be taken as they are unsuitable for certain chemicals.
Copper is usually preferred for water supply lines and heating systems but plex is most often used for drain or waste lines because copper corrodes over time. Ultimately, it's up to the homeowner to decide where to spend the construction budget.
Vulnerable to Damage
Plumbing failures can be caused by defective copper pipes several years after installation. Acidic water can be very bad for copper systems. Scale builds up inside the lines and blocks the flow of water through the plumbing system.
Copper is more likely to freeze and break.
The challenge arises more frequently in older homes needing more insulation. If you reside in a colder region or have experienced water pipe freezing, opting for PEX when it's time for a repiping endeavor is a wise choice.
Should I use copper or PEX when building a new house? Generally, PEX is used in new home construction more often than copper due to the fact that it's easier to install, less expensive, and more durable against freezing conditions.
Copper systems are longer-lasting and more environmentally friendly, while plastic pipes offer more flexibility during the install, and are less expensive. The choice between them depends on various factors, such as complexity of the install and the specific needs of the homeowner or contractor.
Copper wire remains one of the most widely used and reliable materials in electrical systems, thanks to its excellent conductivity, durability, and resistance to corrosion. However, it is not without its challenges, including higher costs, weight, and vulnerability to theft.
Hard or acidic water can corrode copper pipes more quickly. High mineral content, chlorine, or low pH levels in the water can exacerbate the problem.
Properly installed copper pipes last 50 to 70 years on average, while PEX lasts 25 to 50 years.
Copper pipes generally last between 50-70 years
The expected life span of copper pipes depends on several factors, but in general they can be expected to last at least 50 years. Copper piping is fairly reliable and resistant to most forms of corrosion, but it doesn't last forever.
Its popularity soared after lead pipes became obsolete due to their unsafe nature. Today, plumbers still install copper pipes quite regularly, but you have a wide variety of other materials to choose from, too. PVC and PEX are both common and tend to be more affordable than copper.
What is the best piping for plumbing? PVC pipe is by far the most commonly used pipe in residential homes. This type of pipe is affordable and available in a number of different fittings and sizes. It's also a great choice for most warm and cold water applications.
The first is the lifespan of the materials. Copper piping has an impressive lifespan of 50+ years, making it one of the longest-lasting pipes on the market. In comparison, PVC pipes tend to fall apart much more easily. Of course, we also have to consider how well each type of pipe stands up to damage.
PVC pipes are the best option for most drainage projects due to their strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to install. PVC pipes are strong enough to withstand the weight of soil and water and are not easily damaged by roots or debris.
Copper is known for being recyclable. Scraps can easily be remelted and re-used for new piping. PEX can't be melted for reuse once it is cross-linked, but it can be repurposed. At the end of its life, PEX tubing can be ground up and used as a filler in composite lumber, playground equipment, traffic barriers and more.
PVC is most commonly used for drain, waste, and vent lines. It is not recommended for use in potable water lines because it can leach chemicals into the water.
Ensure you Have the Right Material for Your Pipes
Most plumbing codes require that copper pipes be used for water distribution systems and backflow preventers. However, some local authorities may allow other materials to be used in place of copper if certain conditions are met.
The Cons of Using Copper Pipes
Installation costs: Copper is more expensive than other piping materials. Since they're also rigid, you must incur the cost of elbow fittings. The rigidity makes them more challenging to cut and fix during installation. The longer it takes to handle the materials, the more cost you incur.
Of course, PEX piping does carry some disadvantages. It will crack and break apart under the influence of strong UV rays (making it unsuitable for most outdoor use). Plumbers require specialized tools to cut and join this type of modern pipe. Additionally, disposing of used PEX pipe sometimes proves problematic.