Copper piping has been the standard material used in UK plumbing for decades, but plastic piping is becoming increasingly popular. Let’s explore the pros and cons of plastic and copper piping to help you choose the right material for your needs.
Copper v plastic piping: the pros and cons
Lifetime
Copper has very low reactivity, which means it won’t easily corrode. This gives a copper pipe a lifespan of 40-70 years. Plastic pipes also have a long lifespan but are weaker at the joints than copper, meaning they may have to be replaced more often.
Copper pipes are very easy to recycle and can be reused an infinite number of times, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
Price
When it comes to both the purchase price and the cost of installation, plastic pipes are cheaper than copper; however, bear in mind that you may have to replace the whole system sooner, which could be a cost down the line.
Flexibility
Both copper and plastic pipes are flexible, so this consideration comes down to what you want to use your pipes for. Plastic piping is better for underfloor heating due to its superior ability to make small turns, but copper is best for outdoor pipes. Copper pipes can also come in lots of different sizes, widths and fittings, which are available from pipeline merchants such as watkinspowis.co.uk/products/copper-pipe-fittings-and-press-systems.
Energy efficiency
Copper is a fantastic heat conductor, which makes it efficient at maintaining temperatures and potentially cutting down on heating costs. With household energy bills predicted to rise by five per cent in January 2024, according to BBC News, copper pipes can help to save money.
While plastic pipes have lots of advantages, copper pipes can help you cut down costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
