Plastic to replace Copper pipes in California

01-Feb-07

A two-decade-long battle against groups warning of potential health hazards of using plastics pipes has ended in California as California homebuilders have won the right to use less-expensive plastic water piping instead of copper, reducing plumbing costs. Chlorinated PolyVinyl Chloride -- otherwise known as CPVC piping -- is a sturdy material which holds up when filled with hot water. That makes it an ideal substitute for the metal pipes traditionally used in homes. Environmental and consumer groups continue to argue that chemicals in some plastic piping are dangerous, and can leach into the soil and contaminate drinking water.