Which is better: Copper or PVC for water main line ?

Question

We are planning to replace the old main water line to the house. Some contractors suggested PVC and some others Copper.

Do you guys have any suggestions or ideas for me?

thanks

- murthy

Answer 1

Type K soft copper is the best. You really don't want joints in the underground line. You need to check with your water company to see what your local codes state. Is this line after the meter or before it? Makes a difference on what you can use.

Answer 2

PVC works fine for just 1/8 of the cost.

Answer 3

Mostly that depends on the building codes in your area and the quality of the water going through the lines.

PVC doesn't corrode as rapidly as copper in alkaline water so it is what we prefer. It is also less expensive and easier to put in.

Copper requires soldered joints. PVC requires gluing and setting time. Gluing is much easier for anyone, even little old ladies to do themselves.

Answer 4

All materials in plumbing today have about the same life span,depending on the water and ground quality.

Copper is quite expensive these days and not that easy for the average joe to fix.

PVC is Relativly cheap,fairly simple for the average joe to fix.

You mind try SDR 9 or PEX if local codes will let you.

If you use any plastic pipe and it is pretty straight I would suggest placing a bigger pipe in the ground,and running your water line thru it.

In the future if you have problems dig up on each end pull out old pipe insert new line!

Answer 5

If your use is for potable water (drinking) you need to use CPCV type piping. Check with your local building and plumbing codes

Answer 6

PVC is cheaper and easier to work with, as well as more forgiving. More and more contractors and DIY'ers are using PVC... but check with your local building inspector to find out if its ok in your area.

If you go with PVC, I'd say you should pay a bit less.

Answer 7

we just got a new water line installed from the main to our house they used copper.  with the plastic they need to glue it every so many feet the copper that we just got put in it was in a 200ft roll all they need to solder was the new pipe to the old and where the water co line comes off