Copper or PVC pipe, which makes the most sense?

Copper or PVC?   It is a debate that has dogged the plumbing world for decades. In the scope of confounding questions it ranks right alongside those other eternal conundrums, paper or plastic and credit or debit.

Luckily for all, pipes made from these materials each have their own attributes. So the real question is not, “Which material is better?” but rather, “Which material is right for my project?”

If you’re going to be updating the plumbing in your house or building a new home, consider the following advantages and disadvantages for each type of pipe and you’ll be able to have intelligent conversations and make informed decisions.

Let’s start with copper.

One of the big advantages is copper’s smaller diameter or thickness, which makes it easier to bend for use in tight places and requiring fewer elbows and joints – a characteristic beloved by plumbers and do-it-yourselfers everywhere. As a natural element, copper is highly resistant to flame and bacteria growth thus copper pipes would have those qualities as well.

On the negative side copper is rather expensive, can actually break down at temperatures above 180ºF and can sometimes give water a slightly metallic taste.

On the other hand PVC, which is a pipe made from vinyl resin, is fairly inexpensive, can stand up to much higher water pressures and is self-insulating  so it can easily conduct very hot water.

Its composition makes it 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 soldering equipment.

However, PVC does have its faults. Its large diameter makes it a little more difficult to maneuver, the joints are rather bulky and, as is true with all plastics, they aren’t exactly environmentally friendly.

So which one’s right for you? If you still aren’t sure, call ARS^®/Rescue Rooter^® today and we’ll help you make the right decision.