When it comes to plumbing systems, the indisputable fact is that copper is the least likely material to cause household problems. Yet even though more than 80 percent of homes in the United States rely on copper pipe and fittings, there is a growing use of plastics in plumbing systems, mainly because of lower initial costs.
"Homeowners typically do not worry about their plumbing, but maybe they should," says CDA president Andrew G. Kireta, Sr. "It's basically an 'out-of-sight, out-of-mind' issue. However, consumers need to recognize the tremendous benefits of copper systems. Unlike many other materials, copper plumbing requires no maintenance, meets or exceeds building codes in all 50 states, won't burn or break down, and can last for the life of your home"