When it comes to plumbing, two of the most commonly used piping material are copper and PVC pipes.
However there are other piping materials that can be utilised and they are plastic piping, pex piping, Both have their advantages and disadvantages depending on what you need.
Copper piping is ideal for hot and cold water supply lines due to its strength and resistance to corrosion. It is also the preferred material for any exposed lines since it looks more aesthetically pleasing than PVC pipes. Copper, however, is much more expensive than PVC piping which can cause your project to become significantly pricier if you use copper exclusively.
Copper runs through the average family home like a network of veins, providing everything from electricity and water to all manner of appliances and outlets. According to Geoscience Australia, the average family home contains around 40 kg of electrical wire and 90 kg of copper.Plastic pipe (PVC pipe) is a cheaper alternative but also has some drawbacks. They are not as durable as copper pipes so they may not be suitable for all applications that require higher pressure ratings. Additionally, they tend to be noisier than copper pipes, so they may not be ideal if you're looking for quiet plumbing. PVC also can't withstand high temperatures and unlike copper piping that can conduct heat so it's not suitable for hot water lines.
Ultimately, the choice between using any pipe material such as copper and PVC pipes will depend on your budget and specific needs especially when you are fitting them into very thin walls copper pipes thin walls are the go-to. Copper is a great option if you need strong, reliable pipes but PVC is a more cost-effective alternative in some cases.
The answer to this question depends on the specific application and what you need from your pipes. Copper is typically better for hot as it can withstand extremely hot water and cold water supply lines as it’s more resistant to corrosion and has higher pressure ratings. Additionally, copper pipe systems look nicer than PVC so it’s often used in exposed lines where aesthetics are important. However, PVC pipes can be a cost-effective alternative that may meet your needs depending on the application. Ultimately, both materials have their advantages and disadvantages which should be weighed against each other depending on your project.
Weighing both options and considering the pros and cons of the plumbing pipes is the best way to decide whether copper or PVC piping is best for you. Factors such as budget, strength requirements, temperature and pressure ratings, aesthetics, and noise levels should all be taken into account when making your decision.The cheapest pipe for plumbing is PVC (polyvinyl chloride) piping which is a durable plastic compound. PVC pipes are inexpensive to purchase and install, easy to find, and come in various sizes and shapes to fit different applications. They also resist rusting and corrosion from water exposure better than other materials such as copper or steel. However, PVC pipes have some drawbacks such as lower temperature tolerance so they're not suitable for hot water lines or areas with very cold climates. Additionally, they can be quite noisy compared to other materials like copper, so if you need quiet plumbing, it might be worth looking at other options.
The cost of PVC and copper pipe varies depending on the type, size and length of the material needed. Generally, PVC pipes are cheaper than copper pipes. However, the overall cost depends on a variety of factors. The installation costs associated with each type of piping can also have a significant impact on the total cost of a project. Additionally, PVC is often used for drain lines while copper is more commonly used for water supply lines. This can affect the price difference between these two types of piping as well.
The type of glue used on PVC will depend on the application and intended use. Generally, a solvent-based cement or primer-activated adhesive should be used when bonding two pieces of PVC together. This type of product is specially formulated to create strong, water-resistant bonds.
PVC generally has a longer lifespan than copper when used for plumbing applications. It is less prone to corrosion and does not form deposits on the interior walls of pipes, which can reduce water flow over time. Additionally, PVC is more resistant to temperature changes and wear and tear, making it a better choice in many cases. However, copper has its advantages too; it is often the preferred material in colder climates because of its superior heat conductivity. Both types of pipe can last for decades if properly maintained.
Yes, it is possible to mix PVC and copper when connecting pipes together. This type of connection will typically require special adapters or couplings so that the two materials can be joined. Additionally, the pipe systems should be flushed before use to ensure that all particles from the connection process are removed.
PVC does not corrode in most typical applications. It is far less prone to corrosion than metal piping such as copper or steel, which can be damaged by water with a high pH level or overly salty water. This makes PVC an ideal choice for plumbing applications where highly corrosive water could damage other types of pipes. However, even PVC can become worn over time due to wear and tear, so it is important to inspect pipes regularly and replace them if necessary.
The main advantage of using copper pipes for plumbing applications is that they are extremely durable. Copper is less prone to corrosion than other materials and can last for decades, even in highly corrosive water conditions which reduces chemical contamination. Additionally, copper has excellent heat conductivity, making it the preferred material in cold climates. The major disadvantage of copper pipe is its cost; it is often more expensive than alternative materials such as PVC, plastic pipes, or PEX pipes. Additionally, installation costs can be higher due to the complexity of working with metal pipes.