Important Things to Consider When Repiping Your Home
This age-old choice has troubled the minds of many homeowners. However, no matter how much research there is on the subject, there are pros and cons to both copper and plastic pipes.
Because of this, both materials will be highlighted throughout the article, leaving knowledgeable experts that can make educated decisions based on their specific situations. The need for copper vs. plastic pipes can vary from person to person and home to home. Before running for repiping services, research must have been made.
This review will touch upon the pros and cons of each type of pipe material, and will offer insight into which choice might be the right one. However, the ultimate choice is in the hands of all proprietors who are looking for plumbing services.
Copper Piping: An Overview
Pros:
- Copper has a few standout advantages that make it a great choice for piping. It is a tough metal that can stand up to the elements. It is not very malleable, so it won’t easily change over time.
- Copper also helps to keep water safe and clean by creating biostasis. It is harder for bacteria to grow and contaminate the water supply.
- Copper is a common choice for people who need external piping, as it does not deteriorate under UV light. Certain plastic alternatives can only be used indoors and may be ruined by natural light.
Cons:
- Copper pipes also have their downsides. When faced with colder temperatures, copper piping can freeze. This causes the water to stop flowing and could potentially end in a burst pipe, which requires an expensive fix.
- The upfront cost of copper is also more expensive than many of its alternatives. It might last longer, but over time can still corrode and run the risk of contaminating the water.
- These types of pipes can also form punctures, which mostly happen because of lower pH levels in the water. Contributing to faster corrosion and eventually lower water quality.
For individuals who are not necessarily in the market for repiping yet, but are looking to know if copper pipes are safe, it is important to consider their age. Some piping from 20th-century homes may contain traces of lead, which can leak into drinking water and cause health hazards.
Plastic Piping: An Overview
Pros:
- The popular alternative to copper pipes is plastic or PEX piping. The installation is often quicker and less expensive due to its ease of manipulation.
- A PEX system will contain fewer fittings to deal with which also means fewer entries for outside objects.
- PEX can insulate and regulate the water temperature more easily, so freezing pipes are not a problem.
Cons:
- Plastic pipes may be more susceptible to contamination because they are made of a permeable material.
- The plastic can expand and contract slightly, sometimes allowing foreign material into the plumbing system. Although the PEX pipes can’t corrode, they may warp after a series of contraction and expansion.
- There have also been instances where animals eat through PEX piping. Although the occasions are fairly rare, it is something to consider if the area is host to different animals or insects.
For Individuals Looking to Repipe:
If there is an odd taste or colour in the water being used by home appliances, then this is indicative of the necessity for new pipes. Chances are that the piping system hasn’t aged well and is beginning to become a hazard, which may lead to an expensive maintenance project.
By deciding to repipe a house, homeowners undertake a long-term investment as well. This is why having the correct knowledge is imperative. And now that both the pros and cons of each material have been identified, they must be taken into consideration when pursuing this specific plumbing service.
For example, if the weather is unpredictable and temperatures often reach below the freezing point, copper pipes are not the best alternative. However, if there is a long history of rodents in the area, the apparently appetizing PEX pipes should not be used.
Finances also play an intricate role in decision-making. Copper pipes can be almost 10 to 15 times more expensive upfront, making it more difficult for people who don’t have the means to buy them. But, if in the right weather, the investment may come out as a better alternative than the easily damaged plastic piping system.
More Information on Lodder Brothers
Lodder Brothers Limited is in Guelph, Ontario ready to assist in any plumbing system services necessary. Pipe inspections along with repiping are some of their specialties. They are a dedicated plumbing company ensuring that all piping systems stay safe and smooth for years to come.
