Why is copper piping used for water pipes?

One of the most commonly used materials for the construction of water pipes across Europe and the United States, copper has long been held up as a wonder material. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest reasons why copper is used for this application and why after so long there are no materials which are able to mount a serious challenge to the dominance of copper.

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Durable and reliable

One of the biggest reasons why copper is used for water pipes is to do with its durability. Installing copper water pipes is a sure-fire way of knowing that the investment made in this infrastructure is likely to be safe. The durability means that it will have excellent long-term value, with repairs and replacements likely to be few and far between.

Low environmental impact

Given today’s increased awareness on both local and global environmental issues, another reason that copper is a popular material for water pipes is that it is incredibly recyclable. Copper piping does not deplete copper supplies, as it can be reused once it has done its job. This means that installing a copper pipe has a far lower environmental impact than that of alternative materials such as PVC.

Copper has been established as a standard material for both environmentally sound plumbing and electrical wiring, due to its long lifespan and durability.

Easy to work with

One reason that plumbers love to use copper is the fact that copper pipes are so easy to work with. Copper pipes are both lightweight and easy to customise. It takes a minimal number of tools to fit and bend copper pipe, which means that most repair work or installations can be completed easier, with much customisation possible on the jobsite. Parts like copper pipe connectors from plumbers’ merchants such as Watkins and Powis can be fitted using a simple soldering technique, making the job quick and easy to complete.

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Low corrosion

Areas with water which has a neutral pH rating benefit from the corrosion resistance of copper pipes. The pipes resist corrosion by forming a very thin layer of protective coating, allowing copper pipes to keep their structural integrity. In turn, this allows copper pipes to be constructed with a lower diameter than other pipes may ordinarily need, reducing the materials needed in their production.