Thread: copper in concrete

I have looked for information regarding ill effects of copper piping in concrete. I have gotten mixed signals.

What is your opinion? Should we as inspectors be alerting to copper pipes that are imbedded in concrete or masonry products?

The concern being corrosion due to a reaction to the limestone in concrete products.

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Yes, indicate in your report. The worst case is Radiant copper lines installed in concrete slab flooring in the 40's and fifties. Usually abandoned by now becasue of leaks but if you find one in operation it is short lived.

Yes and copper feed lines from oil tanks to furnaces which are in or under concrete.

Also

Copper.org: Plumbing: TechCorner - How to Prevent Corrosion of Copper Tube in Underground or Buried Applications

Also consider that most new homes use the incoming copper water line as a grounding system for the electrical service.

Stray currents. Direct current (DC) from impressed cathodic current corrosion protections systems or from the grounding of alternating current (AC) systems to the underground copper service can be detrimental.

Also
Copper.org: Copper Development Association - Information on copper and its alloys.
One of the most prevalent myths regarding the use of copper in concrete is that lime in the concrete will have a negative or corrosive effect on the surface of the copper. In fact, a screened soil/pulverized limestone mixture is actually recommended as a selective backfill for copper tube to help eliminate corrosion concerns. There should be no concern regarding the interaction of the copper with lime in the concrete

Copper thru concrete isn’t an immediate threat however it should be in your report as a recommended change. Copper heat pipe is more likely to erode quicker then water pipe due to its thickness.