Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Copper VS PVC Plumbing Systems



Have you recently consulted a professional plumber about a plumbing leak in your home or business? Most likely that plumber has assessed the issue and offered up a solution. That solution can include a couple different choices in material that may affect the overall cost of completing the job.


In the Plumbing Business there are two main types of material in use today to supply and drain water from your home or business. Copper Piping and PVC Piping, these two are both well accepted and often used in these circumstances. There are some differences in these types of material, and although cost may be a factor depending on your budget there may be some other considerations as well.
Let’s have a quick look at these two types of materials and what makes the so different.

First off is Copper.  Copper is a metallic element making it commonly used for water piping among other things. It is light and strong and often used for corrosion-resistant parts. There are several
reasons to prefer copper for plumbing piping. Copper pipes are durable for the long-term with non-acidic systems. Copper is bacteria resistant, very fire resistant, and earthquake tolerant. It can be incredibly flexible and bent around joints. Copper piping also has a small internal diameter, much smaller than CPVC, which lets it fit in smaller, tighter places.

Copper Downsides.  There are downsides to copper piping. Some people report metallic tasting water with their copper pipes. If the water is acidic, pinholes can form, causing plumbing leaks. Copper piping installation isn’t something to undertake casually however; it is labor intensive to install and requires a skilled plumber. It also is more expensive than CPVC.

PVC Piping. The main positive about PVC piping is it’s resistance to corrosion. It is easy to install, and is viable for do-it-yourself enthusiasts. It is also less expensive.

PVC Downsides. Some people may complain of a plastic taste to their water. The piping is also brittle during installation and if you are not a professional plumber you may break or bend the piping causing water restriction and reducing water pressure delivered to your home.

In the end it is up to you and your experience or the experience and recommendations of your plumbing contractor to decide which route will be best for your situation. As a side note if there are issues with tasting metallic or plastic yin your water adding a quality filtration system while performing the replacement of your current plumbing system is a wise option. But filtration systems can be covered in more detail at a later date.

Contacting a professional licensed plumber in your area is the safest way to determine which system plastic or copper will be the right for your needs. 

If you live in the Maplewood, MN. Oakdale, MN. Stillwater, MN. NorthSaint Paul, MN. Area contact Paul Vadnais Plumbing a 4th generationplumbing company with the experience to get the job done.

 

Paul Vadnais Plumbing
Saint Paul and Surrounding Suburbs
Professional Licensed Bonded Plumbing and Well Services
651-429-8908
www.paulvadnais-plumbing.com

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