Copper has been the material of choice since the 1960’s for residential and commercial piping. Though it is a top-rated piping material, copper can present with some issues. With that said, there are definite pros to copper piping and some cons as well. The team here at Steve Mull Plumbing wants to take this time to acquaint our valued clients with some of the pros and cons of this piping material.
THE PROS OF COPPER PIPING
There are a number of reasons why copper is such a popular choice for piping.
- Easy installation and lightweight – For contractors, especially, this is one of the best overall advantages of using copper for piping. Copper is extremely flexible which makes it a very safe material to use and provides for an easy installation.
- Resists Corrosion – It is also a good deal more resistant to corrosion that metal since it does not rust and typically remains clean and shiny for years and years.
- Highly durable and fire resistant – This piping material can handle pressure near to 1000 psi and can easily meet the demands of families and businesses for a lifetime. Further, it is fire resistant. Because of its durability, copper does not require the use of any support materials or equipment to meet with your specific requirements.
- Withstands temperatures – This piping is able to withstand extreme cold and hot temperatures. In addition, it is less likely to freeze in the winter months as compared to a number of other piping materials.
- Lifespan – The life expectancy of copper piping ranges from 50 up to 70 years and is dependent upon surrounding climate, operating patterns and water quality.
THE CONS OF COPPER PIPING
There are a few downsides to copper.
- Sensitivity to different water types – Though copper is typically resistant to corrosion it can react to waters that contain high levels of acid. Acid can cause the interior of the pipes to corrode and deteriorate over time. When this occurs, you will notice a very unpleasant copper like taste to your water supply. Further, when high levels of acid are in the water, it can, over time, create leaks that can ultimately lead to more serious plumbing problems.
- Sensitivity to high pressure – If the water velocity in your home or business is too high, copper piping can become physically damaged as a result of the extremely high overall water pressure.
- Expensive material – Copper is far more expensive than other plastic piping used for plumbing such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or even cross-linked polyethylene (PEX).
NEED AN EXPERT OPINION – TRUST THE PROS HERE AT STEVE MULL PLUMBING
The team of highly skilled plumbers here at Steve Mull Plumbing strives to deliver the best all-around plumbing products and services this side of Lebanon. Our team of professionals is steadfast in our effort to meet the individual needs of all our valued clients. Whether you are in need of a plumbing system inspection or require any type of plumbing repairs or services, then we are the team for you. Our team takes pride in providing you with not only the products and services you need, but affordable prices and fast turnaround times as well.
If you are concerned that you may have a copper piping issue in your home or at your business, then be sure to let the experts here at Steve Mull Plumbing come out and take a look at the problem. We will identify the source of the problem and provide you with effective solutions as needed. It is always best to be safe and be proactive, then to allow a problem to linger and turn into damages and repairs that can be quite costly. For more information about piping materials or to schedule a service appointment, reach out to one of our team members today!
