The benefits linked with PVC piping are its ease of installation and lightness. PVC is also very resistant to corrosion and has a high impact strength. Copper piping does not promote bacterial growth. It also has a very high melting point and is usually installed with generous warranties and can increase home values.
PVC piping is prone to melting if exposed to flame and can support bacterial growth if not maintained properly. Meanwhile, copper piping can promote calcium buildup, and because of the high price of copper, job site theft is more likely.
One of the biggest differences between these types of pipes is price. A project involving the installation of copper pipes can cost much more than the same project with PVC pipes instead.
Exposure to the trace amounts of residual vinyl chloride monomer (RCVM) in PVC piping can lead to health concerns. Despite these concerns, all building codes in the United States and Canada have approved the use of PVC piping for potable water distribution. If acidic water is drawn through copper piping it can cause copper to enter and contaminate a water supply.
PVC piping can cause water supplies to have a "plastic" taste. Some copper piping consumers have reported a "metallic" taste from the water drawn through copper pipes.