Copper repiping is a term used to describe the refitting or replacing of old or existing pipes in a home or business. Most buildings constructed more than twenty-five years ago were fitted with galvanized pipes, which are iron pipes coated with zinc. As galvanized pipes age, the zinc lining erodes, and the constant movement of water causes the pipes to rust.

As galvanized pipes age and deteriorate, they must be replaced. Most homes and businesses prefer to replace the old iron pipes with new copper pipes. In fact, copper pipes are the preferred replacement because they are strong, durable, lightweight, safe, and immune to rust.

When Is It Time For Copper Repiping?

There are many reasons to hire a plumbing expert to refit a home or business with copper piping. Decreased water pressure is usually the first sign that old pipes should be replaced. Washing machines fill up slowly, showers have a weaker spray, and garden hoses produce a weak trickle.

Other signs that it is time to refit a home or business with copper piping include:

• An odd color, taste, or odor in the water
• Frequent leaks around sinks, the toilet, pipes, or drains
• Repeated exposure of pipes to freezing air

In addition, a home or business that has been refitted with copper pipes will have an increased market value when it is time to sell the building or residence.

The Benefits Of Copper Repiping

Copper repiping has many benefits, relating to both cost and health. First, it is a cost-effective way to avoid pipe repairs in the future. Copper is one of the best materials used to make pipes. It is a solid, sturdy, and durable material that is also flexible because it is easier to bend it is easy for professional plumbers to work with.
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Copper is well-known for its longevity. Iron piping systems are popular in many homes, but they wear out often. Galvanized pipes rust, leak, and even burst due to the erosion of zinc linings and the stress of constant water movement. Copper repiping can add years to the life of a home’s plumbing system.

Yet, copper plumbing is more than merely economical. It can improve your health, as well. As iron pipes rust and deteriorate, the water moving through the pipes can become contaminated. Severely rusted pipes leave evidence in the water through color and particles. Other times, contamination is invisible to the naked eye. People may unknowingly drink dirty or tainted water and take rust showers every day. Copper does not rust, so copper repiping will keep the water clean.

Because copper is durable and resistant to rusting it is also a good material to use for sinks. A copper farm sink is a good, solid choice for the kitchen, if you want something unique and decorative a handmade Mexican copper sink may be a good choice. You may even consider a warm, distinct copper bar sink for your basement bar.

A home or business that suffers from frequent plumbing leaks, clogged drains, or dirty water should call a professional plumber. The plumber can replace the building’s old galvanized pipes with a new copper repipe.

Although the cost of copper repiping may initially seem high, refitting will actually result in savings over time. Copper repiping will prevent frequent plumbing repairs and provide peace of mind, too, by avoiding health issues related to pipe deterioration.
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A handmade Mexican copper sink can lend warmth and unique style to the kitchen or bath. Available in a myriad of shapes and styles, a beautiful Mexican copper sink fits with many decorating styles adding grace and value to a home.

A Passion for Artistry

Creating utensils, art, and jewelry from copper is a Mexican tradition dating back to Pre-Columbian times. For generations, Indians of Central Mexico mined the metal and created objects both utilitarian and beautiful.

When the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, a blending of metal working techniques occurred increasing efficiency but retaining traditional Indian craftsmanship. This region of Mexico was famous for handcrafted copper kettles created by local copper smiths.

As demand for kettles dropped in the mid-20th century, new crafts developed including the creation of hand hammered copper sinks.
Today, families with a long tradition of copper smithing are creating highly sought after sinks. Now prized by discriminating decorators and homeowners seeking an alternative to mass-produced sinks, they can be found in home improvement stores, specialty shops, and on the internet.

Mexican Copper Sinks for Kitchen or Bath

Hand crafted copper sinks come in a wide range of shapes and styles appropriate for the kitchen, bath, or bar. Kitchens are now incorporated into larger living areas where family and guests gather, and a beautifully hand crafted copper kitchen sink can be the focal point of the whole room. A copper bathroom or copper bar sink can also be a conversation piece.

Copper sink styles are broken into three basic designs, top-mounted, under-counter mounted, and vessel style sinks that sit on top of the cabinet.

A common style of Mexican copper sink for the kitchen is a copper farm sink, sometimes called a copper apron sink or a copper farmhouse sink, has a large front plate that is exposed; this type can either be undermounted or top mounted. The front plate makes this style quite distinct; it is available either plain or embossed.

You can also find hammered copper sinks with either a single, double or even sometimes a triple basin.

Mexican Copper Sink

Mexican copper sinks are more common as smaller sinks, like those used in the bathroom. These smaller bath sinks may be oval or round, patterned or plain, and drop-in or under-mounted.

The popularity of vessel sinks makes copper a perfect choice. Mounting above the cabinet creates a stunning look and highlights the handcrafted copper vessel sink.

What really makes a Mexican copper sink distinct is the handcrafted designs, finish and in some cases the decoration of it.

Finding a Quality Mexican Copper Sink

For durability and lasting beauty, the minimum gauge should be 18-gauge and 99.9% pure copper. Many sinks are created using thicker 15-gauge copper. For better durability choose one with a lower gauge. Look carefully at workmanship, seams, and edges to insure the sink is well crafted. Seams should be welded and not soldered. Be sure the copper is lead and mercury free; ask for a guarantee of this. There are a variety of finishes available; the choice of finish will determine the care the sink requires.

Caring for Copper Sinks

A bright copper sink is generally lacquered, and over time the lacquer will wear off. In order to maintain the bright look once the lacquer is worn, specially made copper polish should be used. Waxed finishes require regular maintenance with wax to preserve the finish.

The simplest finish to care for is the deep brown natural patina. This is the way aged copper appears and will require only cleaning with soap and water to maintain the look. The natural copper also has antibacterial properties. Acidic liquids like lemon juice cause the finish to turn pink so avoid putting undiluted acids into the sink.

Knowing a thing or two about copper sink maintenance will help you keep the desired finish on your copper sink. Follow manufacturers instructions for the best results and longevity.

With care in choosing and maintaining a Mexican copper sink, it will continue to be a thing of beauty for decades and an investment adding value to the home.

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A copper bar sink is a sturdy and ideal choice for various rooms within a residential or commercial property. Not only are they functional, but they can also be an aesthetically pleasing addition to the home.

Copper bar sinks are commonly used in renovation and home restoration projects, especially when going for a distinct look. The installation of a copper bar sink can even increase resale value of a home if the bar area is done well with things like bar stools, a bar fridge and other common bar equipment.

Copper Bar Sink Designs

Copper bar sinks come in a variety of stunning designs. While a wet bar sink can be made of an assortment of metals, copper has become a popular choice.

The finish is usually created manually. The hand-polished finished product gives the basin a unique and classic appearance. Hammered copper sinks are especially well liked with their warm, textured appearance. The distinct color of the basin is typically ingrained.

Copper bar sinks tend to have extremely deep ledges. The structure of the sink helps keep the water within the sink and minimizes the chance of overflow or splashing.

Why A Copper Bar Sink?

The sturdiness of the copper bar sink is one of the main appeals of this type of bar sink. The durability associated with a copper bar sink makes for a sound investment. That’s also a common reason why people replace old galvanized pipes with copper pipes.

Undermount Copper Bar Sink

The quality and beauty of the individual basins gives the owner an easy visual concept to work with where interior design is concerned. The sinks also come in different sizes and shapes from a small bar sink to one that is long, thin and C-shaped. This gives the homeowner quite a selection of items from which to choose. The different sizes also give the property owner a choice in having copper bar sinks installed in both smaller and larger spaces within a home.

You can even remain consistent with the use of copper sinks throughout the home, integrating other styles like a copper farm sink in the kitchen and a Mexican copper sink or copper vessel sink in the bathroom. Copper bathroom sinks and copper kitchen sinks are not only unique but then can also be a conversation piece.
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People that want to make minor changes to their home appreciate being able to update the kitchen and bathroom with copper sinks. The mere installation of a distinct sink like this can change the appearance of a key room like this.

Common Styles of Copper Bar Sinks

There are two popular styles of copper bar sinks. Most individuals either choose between a self-rimming copper sink or an undermount copper sink.

The difference between the two types of sinks lie within the basic structure. Self-rimming, or top mount sinks, have a rim around them that sits on the top of the bar counter. A hole is cut through the counter and they are mounted from the top.

The undermount bar sinks are mounted underneath the countertop and they often have a more modern feel to them. With this type of wet bar sink the counter has a smooth, polished cut and the sink is secured underneath it. Undermount bar sinks are more difficult to install, but when installed correctly they have a clean feel, with the countertop dropping into the sink basin, and they shouldn’t leak.

Professional Sink Installation

Professional installation of a bar sink is important for a number of reasons. If a person has the copper bar sink properly installed, the property owner can avoid experiencing mold and water damage in the future.

High-strength epoxies and silicone caulk are common substances used to install copper bar sinks in homes. Dust is a common problem experienced during the installation process. A reputable contractor will dust throughout the process of an installation to ensure a proper hold when the copper bar sink is installed.

When selecting a copper bar sink, be sure to have it professionally installed. If working with an interior designer, inquire which textures and fabrics should be used to complement this rich, warm-toned sink.
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Copper and copper apron sinks have long been part of an elegant kitchen. Often copper pots and pans are kept in the kitchen where people can see them as decoration because of their rustic and attractive color. Copper made into a traditional copper farm sink or apron front sink makes a beautiful, durable style statement and is also environmentally friendly.

The Style of Copper Apron Sinks

A copper apron sink has a panel or apron that goes down the front of the sink protecting wood fixtures from water damage. This apron is also part of the style and may have hammered copper or embossed designs to add to the beauty. A copper drain is also important to go with the copper sink.

Copper apron sinks are fast becoming a style statement in modern kitchens. Hammered copper sinks have an old fashioned look and the natural color adds richness to any kitchen décor from stainless steel modern to rustic farmhouse.

Another distinct style is the Mexican copper sink. Mexican copper sinks offer unique artistry and designs that you won’t see at a box home improvement store.

The Shape of Copper Farm Sinks

Copper Apron Sink

Copper kitchen sinks come in a huge variety of shapes — round bowls, double sinks, one large basin and one smaller on the side, curved front, rectangle, square, double round basins, small veggie style and copper bar sinks — all with the attractive apron in the front. Many manufacturers will customize a sink to fit a specific space.

Copper farm sinks, sometimes called a copper farmhouse sink, are traditionally large and deep because they were used for many different household tasks from canning vegetables in the summer to bathing the baby. A slight radius in the bottom pan will allow water to drain easily avoiding standing water which may accumulate in a flat bottomed sink.

The Element

Some copper farmhouse sinks, especially those made outside the United States, are made with recycled copper that contains lead. The source and chemical make up of the copper should be ascertained from the manufacturer. Before choosing a sink made with this element make sure the manufacturer clearly states their sinks do not contain any lead or selenium dioxide, including the welding.
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Copper apron sinks may come with a coating that is supposed to protect the finish and help maintain the red-brown color of the copper. But you can also find copper sinks that are not coated, allowing the surface to gradually take on its natural patina which will alter the color over time.

Pure copper and copper alloys were tested with the e-coli bacteria. The bacteria became nonviable in a few hours on a copper surface, but it survived for many days on a stainless steel surface. This is an excellent recommendation for cooking or food processing applications. Since copper is naturally antibacterial some people prefer a non-coated copper kitchen sink.

Because this metal is so long-lasting and resistant to rust many people feel copper repiping is the best way to go if you need to upgrade your plumbing. So choosing a copper apron sink instead of one made from another material is a good choice, as you will have this sink for many years.

Other Considerations When Choosing A Copper Farm Sink

Heavy gauge copper is more durable and will not dent as easily as a thin gauge. It is good to get a sink that is at least 16 gauge or more. Some sinks are made with standard sound reducing pads, these are common on stainless steel sinks but not on copper sinks. Manufacturers also offer different finishes from dark brown to almost a light silver color.

The best is natural copper. It should look like a penny. Copper cleans easily with lime and salt. No harmful chemicals are needed. Good quality copper apron sinks will have a manufacturer’s warranty.

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A copper farm sink can be the perfect addition to your home. The kitchen is so often spoken of as the heart of the home, the place where family and friends gather for sustenance in the form of good food and good conversation. When so many good times are spent in a room, you want to design it so it is pleasing to be in that room and to share it with others.

In the kitchen, one of the central items to choose is the kitchen sink. One unique kitchen sink option is the copper farm sink. The copper farm sink has the ability to be a fresh and innovative design while at the same being a timeless artisan piece of work.

This is a unique look not seen in many homes today, and the sinks that are available are often one of a kind. However, to preserve the beauty of your copper farm sink, sometimes referred to as copper apron front sinks or copper bar sinks, you need to be aware of some key care techniques to employ on a regular basis. This will ensure your investment does not go to waste. Here are some cleaning and maintenance tips to consider if you own a copper farmhouse sink.

What To Consider When Choosing A Copper Farm Sink

Besides knowing you prefer a copper farm sink or apron front kitchen sink instead of a copper vessel sink, there are three major details to consider when getting your new copper sink. The first major point to check into is the quality of the element used. The quality of the copper for your sink should be 98% or more pure copper. Beware of buying copper farm sinks from China, as they often put in additives such as bronze and tin. Often the best copper farm sinks come from Mexico and India, where artisans take pride in their work and the quality measures up. A Mexican copper sink is becoming a popular and stylish kitchen feature in the southwestern United States. For the best affect be sure to add a copper drain as well.

The next detail to consider when shopping copper farm sinks is the thickness of the copper. This thickness is designated by the gauge number. The lower the gauge number value, the thicker the copper and therefore the better the quality of the sink. Apron or farm sinks should have a minimum gauge of 16. An ideal gauge for higher quality copper farm sinks is 14. A 14 gauge copper farm sink is becoming the standard for some new luxury home builders. If the sink is made from a thin sheet of copper that is around 20 gauge, it will damage easily and will likely warp or dent.

Lastly, the importance of construction of the sink cannot be stressed enough. Kitchen sinks are used frequently, over many years. They need to be hardy workhorses.

Copper farm house sinks can be constructed in two ways, by hand or by machine. Those that are handmade by talented and skilled artisans who craft each sink means it will be high quality and unique, whether you choose a hammered copper sink or one with a smooth finish. Machine made sinks use a mold that ensures a high level of accuracy every time. While a hand-crafted, artisan-made copper farm sink sounds very artsy, it does require a closer inspection to ensure the quality and precision of the work.
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You should, of course, consider your budget as you weigh these different variables. If you wish to complete the look with a copper range hood, you’ll need to be careful and consider how much you can spend before start looking at copper apron sinks. A one-of-a-kind hammered copper farm sink usually isn’t cheap. Before you invest be sure to consult a fair number of different copper farmhouse sink reviews.

Understanding Copper as a Living Element

Copper changes color as it ages, starting out bright orange and ending in a light teal after many years. The metal does this through a process called oxidation, but every stage of this process is beautiful in its own way. You have to expect your copper farm sink to change in color over time. This could be a benefit though because it makes for less copper sink maintenance in the long run. This metal is supposed to get dark and age, just as wine is supposed to sit or bronze is supposed to darken. Thus, you can keep the same copper kitchen sink in your home for many years and still work it into the design.

Before you invest in such a distinctive sink, you need to understand that the natural aging process makes owning and maintaining copper farmhouse sinks a very different prospective than a steel farm sink, aluminum farm sink or even brass farm sink.

However copper is a great element to use for sinks, or other things continually exposed to water, as it does not rust and it is very strong. In fact many people who are upgrading their plumbing choose copper repiping because of its longevity.

Cleaning Your Copper Farm Sink

You should clean your copper sink on a regular basis, but you do not have to do much to it. Warm water will suffice for most liquids in the sink, and a soapy water mix will work for everything else. Do not use an abrasive cleaning material that would scratch the metal, and avoid harsh chemicals that may strip off the finish. If you want to maintain a shiny look for your sink, you can use a copper cleaner. Just be sure to thoroughly rinse it off before you use it for anything you would consume. This cleaner can be very harmful when ingested.

Waxing Copper Farm Sinks

You can apply a wax to your copper that will increase the amount of liquids that run off it. The wax will also protect the coloring of the metal and slow down the patina process. This is the best option for people looking to obtain that shiny copper look as opposed to the aged, old farmhouse appeal. Wax can be applied and wiped off with a soft cloth, and you do not have to wax your sink too often.

Using Household Products to Clean Your Copper

If you cannot find any copper cleaner in your home, you can also use lemon juice or ketchup to clean the surface. Spread this on with a soft cloth and let it sit for a few minutes. Then rinse off with warm water and let it dry. This will remove some of the patina that has formed on the copper, so note that it will be a different color once you finish this. The acid in the products is actually the cause of the change.

However, if you are looking to maintain the aged look of a piece, you may simply want to stay with soap and water. If maintaining the authentic patina is your desire, it becomes more about what not to do to the sink than it is about what to do. All chemicals and citrus-based cleaning solutions should be avoided as well as any abrasive agents for these will remove the patina.

Taking care of a copper farm sink is not as difficult as you may assume. It ages well over time and is made of a durable enough material to last for as long as you need it to. You can buy copper sinks that are already aged, or you can look at a new one that will grow with your family. Take pride in the look of your copper farm sink and do your best to keep the value of it intact. With just a bit of research and care, you can have a functional work of art for your copper kitchen sink to enjoy for years to come.
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