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New independent research commissioned by the UK Copper Board into the installation costs of non-domestic plumbing and heating systems, has found that copper can give a saving of 27% compared to steel. The results support a similar study completed in 2002, which also found copper to be the more competitive material.

The research, which was carried out by Davis Langdon LLP, evaluated the costs for installing copper and steel pipes with diameters up to 54mm. Key factors such as material cost, labour hours and labour costs were compared. In addition, the researchers pointed out that copper tube can weigh up to one half of the equivalent steel pipe, making it easier to handle and to support on fixings. As a result, copper pipes offer considerable savings in manpower.

The research looked at the overall savings accrued from a ‘sample’ mixed pipe size installation using a range of pipe sizes and fittings. When compared to a steel installation costing £20,117 the equivalent copper installation using capillary fittings would cost £13,945, giving a 31% saving. Similarly, using copper compression fittings would save 27% and press fittings would also save 27% on the overall installation cost.