Copper Piping: Everything You Need to Know
Overview: Copper piping might not seem like the most exciting topic in the world, but trust us, it’s worth getting to know. Copper piping has been around for centuries, and it’s played an important role in the history of plumbing. Discover the ins and outs of copper piping!
Is there anything exceptional about copper? It’s used to make pennies, and some old-fashioned cooking pots. But most of the time, you probably don’t think about it very much.
But take a moment to consider copper piping. It might be hidden away behind walls and under floors, but it’s a longtime hero of the plumbing world, with a history that spans centuries and a durability that’s tough to beat.
Copper piping is like an old, reliable car that still runs fine and gets you where you need to go. But it’s even more than that. Copper piping is something of a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to plumbing, and it’s used for everything from water supply lines to gas lines to HVAC systems.
And while it might not have the glamour of other, newer plumbing materials, copper piping more than makes up for it in durability, longevity, and versatility. So buckle up, friends, and get ready to learn about copper piping!
What Is Copper Piping?
Copper piping refers to a type of plumbing pipe made from the metal copper (that’s Cu on the periodic table for those of you who remember your high school Chemistry).
Copper piping is commonly used for water supply lines, as well as for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Copper piping has long been popular for its durability, resistance to corrosion, and ability to withstand high temperatures and pressure.
Copper piping is also relatively easy to install and maintain, making it a popular choice for residential and commercial plumbing applications.
>> Related Reading: The Differences Between Copper Pipe Types, Explained
Why Copper Piping?
Now that we understand the what of copper piping, let’s get into the whys.
Copper is a great conductor of heat and electricity. Because it’s resistant to corrosion, it won’t rust or degrade over time like other metals. Plus, copper is easy to work with — it’s malleable, so you can bend and shape it into all sorts of configurations without it cracking or breaking.
In recent years, PEX pipe has started creeping in on copper’s territory, with many new plumbing installations using PEX pipe for applications that previously would have used copper piping. PEX pipe is a flexible and less expensive option — but copper is still a popular choice for its long-term dependability.
>> Related Reading: 4 Benefits of Using Copper Pipes in Your Home
Types of Copper Piping
There are two main types of copper piping:
Rigid copper piping is what you’ll typically see in residential plumbing —it’s thick and sturdy, and it’s designed to be used in fixed locations.
Flexible copper piping, on the other hand, is more commonly used for things like refrigerator water lines and ice makers — it’s thin and pliable, so it can be easily routed around corners and obstacles.
Benefits of Copper Piping
In addition to its heat-resistance and resistance to corrosion, one of the biggest benefits of copper piping is the longevity it offers. Copper pipes can last for decades, and in some cases, they’ve been known to last a hundred years! This means you won’t have to worry about replacing your plumbing anytime soon — which can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
For this reason, copper piping can be a selling point if a time comes when you decide to sell your home.
Installation of Copper Piping
When it comes to installation, copper piping requires a bit more skill and know-how than other materials. If you’re not comfortable with DIY plumbing, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to handle the installation for you.
However, if you’re up for the challenge, there are plenty of resources available to help you learn how to install copper piping properly. Just make sure your toolbox is fully stocked — and you might need a soldering iron as well.
>> Related Reading: 3 Ways to Repair and Connect Copper Pipe
In Conclusion
So, there you have it — just about everything you need to know about copper piping! It might not be the exciting topic in the world, but it’s certainly an important one. Whether you’re a homeowner, a DIY enthusiast, or a professional plumber, knowing the important details of copper piping can help you make informed decisions about your plumbing needs.
We hope we’ve helped you gain a new appreciation for this humble metal. If you have copper pipes in your plumbing system that you need repaired or replaced, we’d be happy to help you. At Pipe-It-Right, pipes are our bread and butter — it’s right there in our name! Reach out to us today for a free consultation!
