Did you just buy an older home? If you did or already had an old home, you’ve probably encountered copper pipes somewhere along the line. Copper has been a staple for plumbing throughout history, but is copper plumbing good? Well, it depends. We’re going to talk about the good and the bad when it comes to copper pipes. After reading this post, you should have a solid understanding of what copper plumbing is, how it’s different from other plumbing materials, its positives and negatives, and what you should do. Read on to learn more.
Are Copper Pipes Good?
Copper started showing up in the plumbing world widely in the 1930s and 1940s. The peak of copper use in plumbing was, without a doubt, in the 1960s. The reason copper started being used was because of its reliability. Time and time again, copper piping has proven to last well over 50 years. Ancient Rome used copper pipes to carry water for hundreds of years.
Additionally, copper pipes do not pollute water like lead, iron, or even PVC pipes. Copper plumbing isn’t prone to breaking, leaking, sagging, or loose joints or connections. Actually, copper pipes stay tight over a more extended period than other pipe materials. Don’t get us wrong, though. Copper doesn’t come without its drawbacks.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Copper Plumbing?
All plumbing materials have their downsides. When it comes to copper, though, the negatives come down to insulation and theft. In the winter, unless your crawlspace is well-insulated and heated, you need to have well-insulated pipes. Copper is prone to freezing, and that expansion and contraction may cause leaks. So, it is critical to insulate copper to prevent breakage. One final drawback of copper pipes is that they are expensive. Due to this, they have a tendency to get stolen by thieves. So, it’s essential to arm your security system and prevent thieves from breaking into your home. Being that copper is highly recyclable and valuable, it is sold for a lot of money.
Should I Have Copper Installed In My Home?
Copper is a good material for plumbing. Today, though, there are great alternatives, like PEX. Materials like PEX are more adaptable and affordable. The average price of copper is two dollars per square foot versus PEX for fifty cents. That’s quite the difference! Ultimately, it’s up to you. If you value clean water and aesthetics, copper may be the best option for you. Be aware, though, that you will need to ensure that everything is well insulated and properly installed. The best solution is to call a professional plumbing service to have it installed and serviced. Copper pipe installation is a highly-specialized skill that you should not attempt to do yourself.
Call The Pros In Drain Cleaning And Plumbing
At Drain Express, we’re here for our customers and love to provide them with the best service possible. If you’re having trouble deciding the best choice for your home, give us a call, and we would be happy to advise you!