Copper pipes are often used by plumbers because of their high quality and durability.
We partnered with IronClad Plumbing to write an article about why there is a preference for the use of copper pipes in your plumbing system as opposed to types of polymer plastic or lead piping.
Copper’s unique qualities as a metal and a major element of the periodic table can be seen in its physical properties and its history.
Some of the qualities of this 5,000-year-old discovered metal have even allowed ancient plumbing systems that serviced the pyramids to remain functional thousands of years later.
Indeed, this highly malleable substance is known for its durability, lightness, anti-corrosive resistance, and superior thermal conductivity that in the form of fittings, brings the most effective transfer of hot water from the heating system to the bathroom, kitchen and laundry.
“The luxury of instant potable water at high or low temperatures and the sanitized removal of human waste through home sewage systems is taken for granted in our modern world,” says Kris from IronClad Plumbing.
However, the choice of copper pipes for plumbing systems which began around 1927 not only validates but perfects our 21st-century plumbing for more reasons than just its excellent heat conductivity and metallic qualities.
Through the test of time pipes of this material have now reclaimed their premiere position in indoor households with around 90% over the long-term less effective PVC and plastic fittings which are better for larger civil scale water management.
Not even the once popular lead plumbing which is now known for cases of sometimes polluting the water it transfers, nor too-rigid steel fittings can compare.
Why Copper Pipes
- In terms of overall effectiveness, qualities, longevity, and eco-viability, indoor water systems using copper pipes are the best choice for the following reasons:
- They are praised for their heat conductivity which allows for the retention and transfer of the hottest water possible to your tap or shower head.
- The metallic substance is strong enough to withstand high physical pressure so pipes will not deform or burst in the environment or from underground stress.
- Its malleability allows pipes to be shaped or fitted into tight or difficult spaces which plastic or steel piping cannot.
- The anti-corrosive and anti-bacterial qualities make it perfect for the transfer of drinkable water.
- Pipes made of this ore outlast plastic or other materials for the lifetime of your house.
- They are completely recyclable without loss of quality in material.
Copper pipes ensure the familiar domestic scenarios of a hot shower to soothe the day’s work, water hot enough for cleaning, and the rapid adjustment of water temperatures to suit the requirement at hand.
Copper Pipes are Plumber’s Favourite
Plumbing specialists love to work with copper because of all of the above reasons. You can always visit your local plumbing supplier to discuss the finer points of why you should use these particular pipes for your plumbing system over plastics or other materials.
The technician will verify the quality and effectiveness of this staple of the plumbing industry, and he or she will also tell you how light and easy this durable type of piping is to handle.
It’s also very easy to tailor a copper water system to the nooks and crannies of any home or household.
While lauding the versatility of this mainstay of modern plumbing they might also recall the historical link back to the sanitation revolution in cities, towns and suburbs when the water siphon valve was created in 1891.
Not long after this in 1927 the beginnings of copper plumbing began with an even further reduction in water-borne disease and the propagation of the privilege of hot water in the house.
Copper Systems are Economically Robust
One final shout-out to the preference for copper pipes is that the material is resource rich in countries like Chile, Europe, USA, China, and Australia.
The metal has become an economic standard in the plumbing industry with the beginnings of post-epidemic growth in the copper pipe sector predicting a rise in the $32 billion industry in 2021, to somewhere around $38 billion by 2028.
And these fittings are recyclable in a way plastic pipes are not, being smelted down and reused as a metal retaining all of its original properties.
This makes these valued items of function completely eco-friendly and in tune with the global push for zero emissions.
Copper pipes for plumbing systems are readily available, time-tested, and valuable so they will be much sought-after for homes in the coming years worldwide.
Even for sanitary reasons, pipe systems made of this gleaming substance, with its ability to kill nearly all types of bacteria within a couple of hours, are the preferred choice.
Other materials can’t compete with copper for use in underground water fittings and this universally valued metal which is found naturally in ground deposits will guarantee you peace of mind when installing your newest water system.
If you are looking for the highest quality indoor water system for your home for the greatest value price, then choose copper piping for your plumbing concern, and always enjoy this marvel of the modern age.