COPPER OR PVC PIPES?
The pros and cons of each type of plumbing pipe
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If you’re going to be updating the plumbing in your house or building a new home, you’ll need to consider whether to use copper or PVC pipes for your plumbing. Both types of pipe have their own attributes and advantages. So the real question is not, “Which material is better?” but rather, “Which material is right for my project?”
Copper Pipes. One of the big advantages is copper’s smaller diameter, which makes it easier to bend for use in tight places and requires fewer elbows and joints—a characteristic plumbers and do-it-yourselfers love. And because it’s a natural element, copper is highly resistant to flame and bacteria growth.
On the negative side, copper is rather expensive. It also can actually break down at temperatures above 180ºF and can sometimes give water a slightly metallic taste.
PVC Pipes. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a vinyl resin. Pipes made from PVC are fairly inexpensive, can stand up to much higher water pressures and are self-insulating so they can easily conduct very hot water.
PVC pipe is lightweight so it’s easy to handle. PVC is also naturally resistant to rust, lasts longer than copper, and its joints are connected with what amounts to glue, so you don’t have to deal with dangerous .aspx)
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However, PVC does have its faults. Its large diameter makes it a little more difficult to maneuver and the joints are rather bulky. Because PVC is a man-made plastic, it isn’t exactly environmentally friendly either.
There is no one answer to which pipe is better—it depends on your plumbing needs and your preferences. If you want more guidance in choosing between copper and PVC, contact Rescue Rooter® today and we’ll help you make the right decision.