Copper vs PVC

Is copper or PVC pipe better?

For years, handymen and plumbers have disagreed about which is best for the plumbing in your home. Copper or PVC pipes. There are advantages and disadvantages to both options, just like in every two-option situation, but don’t worry—Royal Flush Plumbing is here to help! For you, we’ve compiled some advantages and disadvantages so you can decide more quickly.

PVC Pipes

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a sturdy, lightweight, and long-lasting plastic material that plumbers and do-it-yourselfers have used for years as pipes in plumbing. PVC pipe is almost the only option for DIY plumbing today and is utilized for the plumbing systems in many new residences.

Pros

• Even under high pressures and water velocity, it is quieter.
• Because plastic doesn’t corrode and PVC pipe is thicker than copper pipe, it resists corrosion and impact damage better than copper pipe. This indicates that it is preferable for locations where the pipe will be exposed in busy areas
• Installs more easily than copper pipe. Simply apply some PVC cement with a brush to the joints to seal them.
• More affordable than copper pipe.
• Less likely to freeze. This is so because copper conducts heat better than PVC does.

Cons

• Doesn’t last as long because the joint-bonding cement can eventually degrade and leak.
• Joints are less flexible.
• Despite the fact that there is no evidence connecting PVC with any health issues, some people assert that water running through PVC pipe runs the danger of becoming chemically contaminated.
• PVC pipe can’t fit into as small of spaces as copper pipe can since it is thicker.

Copper Pipes

Plumbing for homes used to only be available with copper pipe. Copper pipe systems are already present in the majority of older residences. Copper is a naturally occurring metal that is robust, flexible, and can be utilized to create pipes with extremely thin walls that are yet quite strong. It’s frequently the professional plumbers’ and contractors’ first option. Some homeowners prefer the metallic flavor that copper pipes can provide their water, while others do not.

Pros

• When the water going through is not acidic, it lasts longer than a PVC pipe.
• Squeezes into smaller areas. Copper pipes’ thin walls and low profile are perfect for plumbing small spaces.
• Because PVC pipe is less flexible at the joints, it is less resistant to vibration damage, making it a better choice for earthquake-prone areas.
• Cleaner. Like PVC, copper is only metal and doesn’t include any compounds. The majority of people assert that copper pipe poses less of a health danger than PVC pipe does.

Cons

• If the water passing through it is acidic, it may corrode.
• More challenging to install. The best option for installing copper pipe is frequently to hire a professional plumber because copper pipe joints must be soldered.
• Greater in cost than PVC pipe.
• Especially at greater pressures, it is noisier.

Are copper pipes outdated?

Well, it depends. Check out our article for more detailed information, as we answer this question briefly.

Which is cheaper PVC or copper?

In general, plastic piping is less expensive than copper or other types of metal piping, and the materials are also less expensive. In addition to this, plastic piping installation expenses are also reasonable.

What kind of pipe lasts the longest?

Knowing how long your pipes will last can be difficult. Everyone has a different plumbing system, so to begin with, your pipes are usually just as old or new as your plumbing system itself, depending on when your house was built unless of course they have been upgraded. But more importantly, the quality of the materials used to construct your pipes will determine how long they survive. In the paragraphs that follow, find out more about the most common types of pipework and when to replace them based on the materials they are made of.

PVC Pipes

PVC pipes were originally made available in the 1960s as a replacement for the era’s standard plumbing supplies. The most popular type of piping still utilized for water supply lines is this brand-new generation of strong, affordable, and inexpensive pipes.

Although the exact longevity is unclear because PVC piping hasn’t been around that long, it is anticipated that PVC piping will last for about 100 years. Of course, individual users and other circumstances impact the PVC pipes’ inherent longevity.

Copper

The conventional type of plumbing piping is made of copper pipes. It was a very popular option for pipe insulation since it gave plumbers the freedom to swap out components. Is it still the finest choice for you even though it has a long history of dominating the plumbing insulation market?

Copper pipes have a long history of providing reliable service in houses. Copper pipes are slightly more resistant to water corrosion than other metallic pipes and are generally more durable over the long term than plastic pipes, which are less common due to their softer nature and flexibility.

Because copper is still metallic in nature, it is a conductor of heat meaning that heat or cooling can get lost as water travels. This also poses a danger to children. If a copper pipe is exposed outdoors (or even indoors) where children can put their hands on it, there is a potential risk of harm. Still, copper pipes have been used throughout time simply because it is good material that lasts a long time.