Re-piping your home adds value when it is time to sell and a new piping system will restore the quality water supply you desire. After you have located the weakness in your current piping system, explore material options with local piping specialists.
Competitive copper pipe installers are always updating their rates and material costs according to market changes. Hard Copper is a sought after metal for its wide variety of uses and scarcity. The next step in your project is to determine the material best suited to your home or business.
Because there are several functional materials to use, consider the following conditions when making your selection. Local plumbing code may have restrictions on PVC usage, as PVC is not equipped to withstand high temperatures. Hard Copper piping works well with cold water and hot water applications rated up to 200+ degrees Fahrenheit.
Plastic piping including PVC, CPVC, and PEX are all highly regarded in the plumbing industry for their low cost and simple connection process. Re-piping with Plastic materials can provide you the comfort of a well-constructed system, but hard Copper pipe continues to remain the standard for piping and has maintained a reputation of durability and reliability.
It is difficult to gauge the effects of time on some of the newer materials available such as PEX. Copper piping has been used for decades and is a bulletproof choice that will offer your home or business excellent water delivery and performance. Unlike plastic based platforms, typical Copper systems are installed with a 50-year warranty providing piece of mind and securing the investment on your plumbing system.
In addition to long lasting performance, Copper piping does not require solvents or glues that breakdown after years of use. Soldering is used to connect Copper piping; a technique involving melting pipe segments together to create lasting joints that are free from chemical based adhesives. Copper’s strength allows for long runs of pipe to span throughout a dwelling without the need for supports and excessive braces.
These braces associated with plastic piping require regular upkeep to maintain a watertight seal. If your structure is located in an earthquake prone area copper pipes are known to maintain their position and can bend slightly to adjust to movements rather than breaking under pressure or shifts.
Choose copper piping for its safe composition, as it will not burn or breakdown even under severe conditions. The melting point of Copper is beyond 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit while plastic pipes release toxic fumes when burned and the adhesive can disintegrate and require reassembly. Copper piping will not carry damaging flames between floors and is the best option for your fire protection sprinkler system and even acts as a grounding outlet for lightening.
Copper piping is considered a benefit to your homeowner’s insurance and offers cost saving advantages over the lifetime of your home and business. Your decision to re-pipe using Copper will provide the highest quality plumbing system with a promise of longevity and hassle free performance.
