COPPER PIPE

One of the most common types of water supply lines, copper has been in use for decades and probably will remain so for many more to come. Simple, flexible and easy to install copper supply lines are just about everywhere and can be used in a wide variety of cold and hot water supply line plumbing. Copper tubing comes in continuous lengths of 20 feet and is attached together using a soldering method known as sweating. Copper lines attached directly to hot water and cold water supplies with one continuous loop. Shut off valves are typically installed at each fixture to cut off water supplies at one location while water flows to the rest of the home.

ADVANTAGES:
– Copper creates a biostatic atmosphere & prevents bacteria growth
– Resistant to corrosion from hard water
– Stands up well to cold conditions and helps prevent bursting pipes due to freezing
– Impervious to UV light and can be used in direct sunlight or buried underground
– Easy to install and recyclable

DISADVANTAGES:
– Copper can be expensive to in some areas
– It is rarely used as a waste water line
– High levels of fluorinated/chlorinated drinking water can cause pipe erosion
– Underground leaks can be difficult to find and repair