How Long Does Copper Pipe Last?

Investing in your plumbing is an excellent method to boost the value of your property. Consider installing new pipes as part of your plumbing system upgrade. Since the pipes in the plumbing influence how the overall system operates, the pipeline you select determines whether you will experience frequent plumbing problems or if they will be few or far between.

Nowadays, the top four pipe materials for a water supply line are CPVC, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), galvanized steel pipes, and copper pipes. However, copper pipes are worth examining further. They are the oldest and have been utilized to provide water to residential and commercial structures for decades.

The lifespan of copper pipes is more complex than many people believe. There are, for instance, several varieties, each with a varied lifetime. Ensure the plumbing repair contractor in Reno NV, installs the proper type for your needs if you want to make the best investment in your home.

Types Of Pipes, Along With Their Longevity!

You may have heard that copper pipe has a lifespan of 50 to 70 years. That is correct, but only for mid-range pipes. So here’s how long each piping lasts.

M-Type:

The thinnest copper pipe suitable for domestic plumbing is Type M. While some believe these pipes should last 50 years, they may only last 20. Copper pipe will deteriorate if exposed to acidic water, and its thin walls provide limited protection against this wear and tear.

Some attribute the early failure of copper pipes to acidic water. However, choosing the thinner M-type pipe contribute significantly to the pipes’ limited lifespan. After all, you can’t always control the acidity of the water you get from the city. Furthermore, well water may not be pH balanced and might wear out pipes much faster than expected.

L-Type:

An l-type pipe has an average lifespan of 50 years but can endure up to 100 years. Most plumbers favor L-type plumbing owing to its thickness and longevity, providing homeowners with a piece of mind. Even if you have acidic water, the quality copper pipe may endure as long as you own your property, eliminating calling plumbing repair Reno NV professionals for pipe replacement.

K-Type:

The k-type pipe has a lifespan of at least 100 years. It is the thickest copper piping available and utilized for city water mains and other non-residential plumbing applications. This pipe can sustain even higher pressure than L-type, though this degree of durability isn’t required for your home’s plumbing. Furthermore, these pipelines are prohibitively costly for most houses.

Why Consider L-Type Copper Pipe Repiping?

Why not use an M-type copper pipe since it meets building code requirements and is less expensive than L-type? The simple answer is that an L-type copper pipe lasts longer and can resist higher pressure and acidity, implying you won’t have to re-pipe your property. While M-type fulfills most building code criteria, it doesn’t meet all of them. A brief period of low water pressure in your home might result in M-type plumbing damage. After 20 years, high acidity might potentially wear it down.

Investing in an L-type copper pipe is a worthwhile option for those wanting to stay in the house for long years. It’s also a wise choice if you intend to pass the house on to your kids.