In the field of plumbing, the choice of pipe material is crucial. It impacts not only the life of the installation, but also its performance, ease of maintenance, cost and implementation. Whether for new construction, renovation or simple network modification, three major piping families are commonly used: copper, PER (cross-linked polyethylene) and multilayer. Each of these materials has specific characteristics that can meet different needs.
Copper and its benefits
Copper is the historical material of plumbing networks. Its reputation is based on its strength, durability and reliability. Very resistant to high temperatures and pressure, it is particularly suitable for central heating and domestic hot water circuits. It also has natural antibacterial properties, which limits the development of germs inside the pipes and makes it an excellent choice for the distribution of drinking water.
Another asset, it is totally recyclable, which makes it an ecologically responsible option. Its metallic appearance can also be an aesthetic advantage in visible installations. However, the installation of copper requires professional know-how, with brazing, welding or mechanical connection operations. This need for skilled labour, combined with the often high cost of material, makes the installation more expensive than that of modern alternatives.
The PER and its advantages
PER, or cross-linked polyethylene, is a flexible synthetic material increasingly used in new construction. One of its great advantages is its ease of installation: light, flexible, it bends easily and allows quick installations, without welding or flame, which reduces risks and costs. It is also resistant to corrosion, scale and chemicals commonly found in water.
The PER is well suited to built-in or screed networks, especially for underfloor heating or the distribution of hot and cold water. Nevertheless, it has certain limitations: it is sensitive to UV rays, which excludes it from outdoor or exposed installations. It can also undergo significant expansion under the effect of heat, which sometimes requires more frequent fastening collars. Finally, some users notice a slight noise nuisance related to the circulation of water, especially on long lengths.
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Multilayer and its advantages
The multilayer pipe is a hybrid product, composed of two layers of PER between which a layer of aluminum is inserted. This structure gives it great rigidity and also a certain flexibility, which facilitates implementation while ensuring excellent mechanical and thermal resistance. The multilayer hardly expands, which allows for more stable installations, especially for exposed pipes or long lengths.
Another advantage is that it does not fear corrosion, tartar or chemical aggressions. Its perfectly smooth interior improves flow and reduces pressure losses. It is also silent during the passage of water and retains the shape given to it without the need for excessive fixations. Less expensive than copper, and more efficient than PER alone, it now represents an excellent compromise between performance, durability and cost. Its only notable drawback is that the price is slightly higher than the PER, but this difference is often offset by its technical advantages.
Which one seems ideal?
There is no single answer to this question, because the choice depends on several factors: the budget, the type of installation (plumbing renovation of bathroom), the complexity of the network, the conditions of exposure, and even aesthetic or ecological preferences. Copper is ideal for durable, demanding or visible installations, despite a high cost. The PER is suitable for simple, fast and economical projects, especially in built-in. The multilayer, on the other hand, presents itself as a high-performance intermediate solution, which meets the majority of current needs, both in new and renovation.