Copper Vs. Plastic Pipes: Find What Works for You

When choosing plumbing pipes, you should understand the different materials and their application. The choice of pipe material depends on how you intend to use the pipe. On the same note, the type of installation necessary will also affect your choice of material.

Use this comparison of plastic and copper pipes to help you overcome your plumbing dilemma.

Installation
Plastic is flexible; this property makes plastic pipes flexible due to the quick assembly of its accessories. Connecting plastic pipes is hence a speedy process for plumbers during installation.

Copper pipes, on the contrary, take a longer time to assemble and are challenging to move because they are heavier than plastic. Copper is rigid, and the professionals need to cut it to the correct size when fitting. Moreover, copper requires elbow fittings every time it hits a corner.

More connections mean more installation work. On this account, if installation time is a constraint, plastic pipe fittings are the way to go.

Cost
Copper plumbing pipes tend to be more expensive than plastic pipes. The initial cost of installing copper pipes is relatively higher than that of its counterpart. However, copper is often less expensive in the long run. Copper pipes require fewer repairs and are low maintenance.

Plastic pipes' cost of installation is lower. Plastic is the preferred material, especially when constructing large-scale projects. In addition, plastic pipes are more affordable to handle and transport because they are very lightweight.

Overall, plastic has a low startup cost than a similar copper plumbing project. For this reason, homeowners who want to save may also opt for plastic pipes.

Durability
In terms of durability, copper has a clear advantage over plastic. Copper pipes can withstand a higher pressure at room temperature. The average life span of copper pipes is 50 to 70 years, depending on climate, water quality, or surroundings.

Unlike plastic, copper is fire-resistant because of its high melting point and is not flammable. Copper pipes can also withstand high and low temperatures. Copper’s thermal resistance property allows plumbers to embed copper pipes in concrete during installation.

The life expectancyof plastic pipes is relatively similar at 50 years or more. However, depending on exposure to UV light and other elements, plastic may not achieve its full life expectancy.

Visual Appeal
Copper and plastic have different appearances. A plastic plumbing pipe has many practical designs and aesthetic advantages. For instance, plastic pipes are usually gray. In some cases, the plastic pipe is either red or blue, depending on whether you use them as a hot or cold water supply.

Plastic is the perfect choice if you run water pipes under the sink or behind the wall. However, if you want to create a more industrial style in your home or commercial property, then copper is the one for you.

Temperature
Plastic pipes are not always suitable for boiling water. Plastic releases dangerous chemicals when it overheats. Hot water causes plastic pipes to warp, meaning they cannot always deliver the hot water to domestic appliances.

In addition, long-term exposure to ultraviolet light degrades plastic. Therefore, plastic material is more suited for indoor or underground piping. Copper tolerates extreme temperatures well without losing its strength. Therefore, copper pipes can supply cold and hot water wherever you need it on your property.

Before starting any plumbing work, do your research to ensure that the plumbing material you choose is suitable for you. A professional plumber will often help in finding the most suitable materials for your property. Whether installing a new plumbing system or needing some repairs, rely on us to provide you with the best plumbing services. Contact us for all your plumbing needs.