There are lots of different types of plastic pipes and copper pipes so do a bit of research, and understand exactly what you builder is proposing.

Plastic pipes are cheaper to purchase and less labour to install. So will your builder be crediting the difference fairly with the money he has saved on supply and installation? I would be asking for more information about which pipes he is proposing to change to plastic? Most homes today have PVC waste pipes to carry sewerage, so it must only be the supply pipes? The noise in supply pipework often depends on the quality of the installation rather than the material.

Both products are good, but copper has the reputation for longevity and quality.

If I had budgeted for copper I would need a really good argument on the benefits of plastic pipes for my household in the long term (not just my builders short term bottom line).

Best of luck,

Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls/Dr Retro Virtual Visits

Thanks , so copper is the go then?

My plumber always says do it proper and use copper.

Our house was built when copper was the norm. We had some work done a few years ago which required some new piping and we didn't question their choice of plastic but the water had a horrible plasticky smell for many weeks afterwards. I don't know if that is typical or if they used a particularly cheap type of plastic or poor quality brand? I'd be reluctant to use plastic again and I'd certainly ask more questions about exactly what is proposed to be used.

As for noise, my understanding was always the same as Dr Retro said, it's about the quality of the installation work. Properly installed copper shouldn't be noisy. I suppose poorly installed plastic is less noisy but it's still badly installed.

In NSW Copper pipes internally are rarely used today. only when specified by an architect

It would be most unusual for your builder to have quoted for copper

Different quality in plastic pipes, most warrantied for 25 years, quicker to install by plumber

i chose to go copper my self I’m owner builder , my plumber told me to go plastic , after all research and money saving ive decided to just go plastic save nearly 3 grand

Plastic...much easier for changes later on. Cheaper. Other plumbing is in PVC so why not do all in it. Use the copper budget elsewhere.

my regular very reliable and trustworthy plumber recommends plastic and uses plastic in his own home and there will be many other places to spend your copper savings but consider solid core doors for a quality extra that you can see and appreciate every day

I'd also throw a vote towards copper if it is already in your budget. Time and time again we debate this in my projects and my Engineer consultants recommend copper over PVC every time based on longevity and quality.

Depends on the budget and warranty. Plastic is durable and cheap, but copper is preferred.

Do your research though. These plumbing services in brisbane can help you.

"Other plumbing is in PVC so why not do all in it."

Is plastic for potable water also PVC? I'd be worried about issues with plasticisers.