Before you make an offer on an existing house, make sure to ask about copper pipes. The upfront purchase price of a new home is only one relevant figure. You also need to determine if you’ll be absorbing the cost of expensive repairs or upgrades in the near future. Though once common in residential construction, galvanized steel water supply pipes proved to be susceptible to rust and corrosion that now triggers leakage and pipe ruptures.
Because potential water damage to affected houses can be extensive, and necessary re-piping is costly, galvanized steel plumbing may be a deal-breaker.
In a home where copper pipe is installed, you can make an informed buying decision without having to calculate the future expense of re-piping the house due to sub-standard water supply lines. Here are more good reasons why copper pipes can be a deal-maker when you’re shopping for a home:
- Track record. Copper piping is already installed in about 80 percent of existing residences and has been the standard for over 70 years. It typically comes with a 50-year guarantee. During the average period of home ownership, it’s highly unlikely you’ll ever need to undergo the expense of re-piping if copper is already installed in the house.
- Superior material. Copper is all-natural and highly durable. Resistance to rust and corrosion make ruptures and leakage rare. Copper pipes are proven to stand up to water pressure as high as 1,000 p.s.i.
- Toxin-free. Copper contains no unnatural byproducts that could taint or discolor your water supply. Spans are assembled with lead-free solder.
- Installation-friendly. Installation of copper piping is straightforward and reduces labor costs. Because the material is light and rigid, segments of copper pipe can be routed through the house with fewer support brackets and attachment points. If future plans for the home include an add-on, the system is readily expandable.
- Value enhancer. If you decide to sell, copper piping in a residence is a proven market value enhancer that attracts serious buyers.
Ask the experts at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing for more information about copper pipes.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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