Which is a drawback of copper piping?

• A. Cannot handle high pressure
• B. Less expensive
• C. Corrodes instantly
• D. Rigid and hard to fit in tight spaces

Answer: (D)

Copper piping is known for durability, but its rigidity is a drawback. Because copper doesn’t bend easily, routing it through tight spaces requires additional bends with elbows or extra fittings, which adds labor, creates more joints that can leak, and can make the layout less forgiving in cramped areas. In contrast, flexible options like PEX can be bent around obstacles, reducing fittings and simplifying installation in tight spaces. Copper isn’t less expensive; it’s typically pricier than many plastic options, so that wouldn’t be considered a drawback. It also doesn’t corrode instantly, though it can corrode slowly under certain conditions, and it can handle high pressure when properly installed, so those statements aren’t drawbacks.