Should we use plastic or copper pipe?

Should we use plastic or copper pipe?

One of the most foundational aspects of plumbing is the pipes. In order to make sure that it is safe and lasts for a long time, you need to make the right choice. If you are installing new pipes or want to establish the right plumbing system in your new house, you need to have sufficient knowledge. Before making the decision and choosing between copper and plastic pipes, you need to understand the two and get to know the pros and cons. After that, you can make the decision and move forward.

Copper pipes

Relevant since ancient times, copper pipes are often the choice of homeowners when it comes to plumbing. These offer a wide degree of flexibility and are anti-microbial. Though copper pipes have dominated the plumbing market for decades, you must decide if it is a good choice for you.

Advantages

  • It is highly durable; if well-maintained, the pipes can last for 70 years
  • The pipes offer resistance to chlorine
  • You can use the pipes outdoors
  • These are fully recyclable
  • The copper pipes are anti-microbial
  • It can handle the heat with ease
  • The pipes resist high water pressure and corrosion

Disadvantages

  • The pipes are expensive
  • Installation of the copper pipes is difficult as it needs more parts
  • Upon freezing, copper pipes can burst
  • Water may have a metallic tasting without a filter
  • The pipes have no resistance against insulation

Plastic pipes

Since its discovery, plastic pipes have gained massive popularity among homeowners. These can be installed with ease and are relatively flexible. Moreover, these are cheaper when compared to copper pipes. Also, there are various types of plastic pipes which give you multiple options.

Advantages

  • The price is considerably low
  • Heat retention is good
  • The pipes are resistant to corrosion
  • The installation costs of pipes are low
  • Easy installation due to enhanced flexibility

Disadvantages

  • Inadvisable for outdoor usage due to exposure to too much UV
  • The pipes are not resistant to solvents
  • The life expectancy of the pipes is short
  • It might need additional support

Other factors that you need to consider

There are several factors that you need to keep in mind before you decide to opt for either plastic or copper pipes. Taking into account these parameters and questions will help you make a well-informed decision.

1.   Is your property your own?

You might not think this question is important, but it is. If it is your own property, then you need to opt for long-lasting solutions. In that case, you can go for copper pipes. But, if it is a temporary place or you are going to relocate soon, then plastic pipes are a better choice.

2.   What is your budget?

After that, you need to determine your piping budget. For that, you need to cover the installation and repair costs. If you have a limited budget, then you can opt for plastic pipes. But, if you want to choose copper pipes, then you can expect the costs to increase.

3.   Weather in your area

It is vital that you understand the weather conditions of your area. If the temperature conditions are high in your region, then you can choose copper pipes. It is mainly because plastic pipes are vulnerable to UV rays. But, if you live in an area where freezing can occur, then using copper pipes is a bad idea.

4.   Type of water

It is the minerals present within the water that determines the water quality. Whether water is hard or soft can also have an impact on the selection of pipes. If you are still confused, you can take the suggestion of experts.

5.   Power to handle the heat

Both the pipes can handle the heat to a certain degree. It is without a doubt that copper pipes can withstand more heat than plastic ones. With a melting point of around 1100 degrees, copper pipes are perfect for outdoor use. But, plastic pipes can tolerate heat up to 92 degrees.

Want to install new pipes? Get expert assistance now!

Whether you are building a new home or opting for pipe renovation, knowing more about copper and plastic pipes is an excellent decision. You must understand the difference between the two in order to make the right choice. Moreover, there are some other factors that you must also take into consideration. If you are still confused, you can always ask the expert plumbers for aid!

SOS Plumber in Sydney is one of the best plumbing service providers. We have a team of skilled and licensed plumbers and technicians who can handle the pipe installation with efficiency. Moreover, we are available 24/7 and charge attractive price rates. Furthermore, we only use the latest tools and machinery. Contact us, and we will help you right away!

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