Copper is the most popular and commonly used material for plumbing purposes and it has many great qualities which make it suitable. Here are the six main reasons why copper is used in plumbing.
Copper will not corrode
Water is a corrosive compound and can affect water pipes made from materials such as iron but as copper is resistant to water corrosion, it is a safer material to use. Corrosion can also cause cracks and damage to water pipes so you can feel reassured if your pipes are made from copper. Furthermore, pipes made from copper are low maintenance as pipes that can corrode need to be coated to protect them and prolong their lives.
Copper is non-toxic
Copper is a non-toxic, natural material which is safe for human beings and animals to be in contact with. Water pipes used to be made from lead, but this was found to be poisonous and dangerous to human life, especially to children and young people.. Lead piping has been banned in the UK since 1970 and the use of copper piping is a safe alternative as it is completely non-toxic.
Copper is a non-permeable material
Copper being non-permeable means that it does not absorb any potential contamination with which it may come in contact. This is very important for water piping because if a pipe is made from a permeable material, it could become contaminated with bacteria, dirt or other unsafe substances, which could then be passed on through the water.
Copper is very durable
One of the great properties of copper is its durability and its ability to be unaffected by extreme temperatures. Copper will also keep its shape when in contact with heat and will also be unaffected when subjected to high water pressure. These features make copper an excellent material for use in plumbing as it will be resistant to breakage and damage.
Copper is easy to work with
Compared to lead, copper is a softer, more malleable material and can be shaped and joined more easily by soldering. If you need copper pipe fittings and connectors for plumbing or other industrial projects, specialists such as https://watkinspowis.co.uk/products/copper-pipe-fittings-and-press-systems/ offer a wide range of products and expert advice.
Copper has a lower installation cost
Compared to lead or iron, copper needs less work to install, which in turn, makes the installation cost far lower.