For many years, lead was the main material used in the household water installations. Many of those lead pipes are still in use, which represents a serious health risk and it is also polluting the environment.

Buildings, including country properties in Spain, constructed in the last decades include, in general, pipes made of materials that can be classified into two groups: different types of plastic (such as polythene, polypropylene or PVC) and copper. However, in Spain there are still blocks of flats, houses or country properties with lead or galvanized iron water pipes. These installations must be replaced because they are polluting the water and they are becoming a serious health hazard.

Lead pipes were widely used until the 1970s. From then onwards they were replaced by galvanized iron (which has also now been advised to not be used). The main reason is that the corrosion in pipes of lead and galvanized iron causes water pollution. This is a risk not only for the liquid you drink, but it also affects the food you eat, and when the water continues it´s natural flow, it also affects the environment in general.

Which is the most suitable material for pipes in houses?

When choosing the most suitable material for pipes of a home, it is important to make a good decision. Copper is an excellent choice that provides you more comfort, a long lasting performance and excellent reliability over the years, in addition to helping to protect people's health and to save energy. Copper is one of the highest valued materials by professionals for water, gas and heating installations. Copper´s resistance to extreme temperatures and aging makes it an ideal material.

One of the most important features of copper is related to hygiene and health concerns. Several studies have confirmed that copper pipes prevent the risk of pathogenic bacteria causing diseases such as Legionella and E.coli bacteria. In addition, it is a natural material and it does not contain any artificial substances that could be infiltrated into your drinking water.

If you liked this article please leave a comment and share it on to social networks.