Choosing between copper and PVC pipes isn't as straightforward as you might think. We’ve seen homeowners agonise over this decision during renovations, often getting lost in technical jargon and contradictory advice. Having worked with both materials extensively, I'm going to cut through the noise and give you the honest lowdown on each option.
The distinctive reddish-brown pipes you've likely spotted in older properties are copper. They've been the go-to choice since your grandparents' era, and for good reason. Copper pipes come in three thicknesses: Type M (thinnest, used for residential water lines), Type L (medium, common in homes), and Type K (thickest, mainly for underground applications).
Most plumbers still have a soft spot for copper. There's something reassuring about installing a material that's been proven reliable for generations. If you're planning a plumbing overhaul, it's worth it to discover the different types of pipes for plumbing before making your final decision.
Those white plastic pipes taking over hardware shops? That's PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). They've revolutionised home plumbing in recent decades, especially for drainage systems. For drinking water, you'll typically see CPVC (Chlorinated PVC) instead, which can handle higher temperatures.
We remember when PVC first became mainstream – plenty of old-school plumbers turned their noses up at it. Now, it's everywhere. The DIY crowd particularly loves it because you don't need a welding torch or years of experience to work with it.
Copper pipes in many older homes have been going strong for over 50 years. They'll likely outlast the mortgage. PVC, meanwhile, typically gives you 25-40 years of service. Not terrible by any means, but copper takes the crown for longevity.
Newer PVC formulations are improving, though. The gap is narrowing, especially with proper installation and care.
No contest here – PVC is dramatically cheaper.
Copper prices keep climbing too. It's not just the pipes themselves; you're also paying more for labour since joining copper pipes requires more skill and time. The price difference can be eye-watering on larger projects.
The soldering torch, the flux, the precise measurements – copper pipes can be a nightmare. PVC, by comparison, feels like working with Lego. You cut it with a basic saw, apply some glue, push the pieces together, and you're done.
For homeowners who like tackling projects themselves, PVC is much more forgiving. If you're going the copper route, you might want to ring FS Drainage or another professional outfit unless you're genuinely confident in your skills.
Copper has natural antimicrobial properties – bacteria simply don't thrive in it. That said, I've had customers complain about metallic-tasting water in homes with new copper installations, especially in areas with acidic water.
Modern PVC and CPVC designed for drinking water are generally safe, but the regulations governing what can be used for potable water are quite strict. The cheap PVC from the bargain bin isn't the same as properly rated drinking water pipes – that's a crucial distinction many homeowners miss.
This one's tricky. Copper is natural and infinitely recyclable - but mining copper isn't exactly environmentally friendly.
PVC's environmental credentials are mixed. Production isn't green (it's petroleum-based), but manufacturing PVC actually uses less energy than processing copper. End-of-life is where PVC falls short – recycling options exist but aren't widely available in most areas.
We’ve pulled out corroded copper pipes from houses with particularly acidic water or aggressive soil conditions. It happens. But generally, copper handles temperature swings beautifully – from freezing cold to steaming hot.
PVC simply doesn't corrode like metals do. However, we wouldn't use standard PVC for hot water lines (that's CPVC territory). Too many DIYers make this mistake. And in severe cold? PVC can get brittle.
Typically, copper is best for hot water lines, especially in main distribution systems. It's also the preference of many for exposed outdoor installations where UV resistance matters and in older homes where matching existing plumbing makes sense.
The fire-resistance of copper also makes it suitable for critical applications. In commercial buildings with strict codes, copper is often still king.
For drainage, waste, and vent systems, PVC is your go-to. It's also perfect for cold water supply lines in most normal residential settings. If you're working with a tight budget or doing the installation yourself, PVC makes far more sense.
Not quite. We’ve replaced plenty of copper pipes that developed pinhole leaks after 30-40 years. Water quality is a major factor here. In some areas, copper lasts virtually forever; in others, problems develop much sooner.
This myth needs to die. Properly rated PVC and CPVC for potable water are safe. They're tested extensively and subject to strict regulations. Just make sure you're using the right type of plastic pipe – not all PVC is created equal.
Rubbish. There's a reason copper has remained popular despite newer alternatives. For certain applications, it's still superior. Premium homes often still use copper for main water lines because of its proven track record and longer lifespan.
After 20+ years in the business, we’ve developed a hybrid approach: PVC for drains and copper for main water lines is often the sweet spot. But your specific circumstances matter – water quality, budget, who's doing the installation, and how long you plan to stay in your home.
Neither option is inherently "better" across the board. They each have their place in modern plumbing. Trust your specific needs more than generalised advice, and don't be afraid to mix materials where it makes sense. Your plumbing system should serve you reliably – the pipes it's made from are just a means to that end.
