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Is Copper or Stainless Pressfit the More Cost-Effective Choice for Piping Solutions?

Choosing between copper piping versus stainless steel isn’t just about comparing price tags. For specifiers, engineers and installers, the real question is: which material offers the better long-term value across your entire project lifecycle?

Here we look beyond the initial cost per metre and compare copper or stainless steel pros and cons, factoring in labour, installation time, durability, maintenance and theft risks.

Whether you’re budgeting for a new commercial build or replacing ageing infrastructure, understanding the full picture can make or break your bottom line.

Let’s look at 5 reasons why stainless steel piping is a better choice compared to copper:

1. Material Costs: Copper Is Volatile, Stainless Is Stable


The cost of copper has always been dictated by global demand. With its critical role in electric vehicles, renewables and electronics, copper prices have become increasingly unpredictable. In 2024, prices spiked by more than 30% due to reduced mining output, creating headaches for estimators and procurement teams alike. This year in October 2025, the mining disaster in one of the world’s largest copper mine sites has sparked a global copper supply crisis, with estimates of higher prices due to flow-on impacts for at least the next 2 years.

Stainless steel, on the other hand, offers greater price stability and is less prone to supply chain disruptions. Stainless steel doesn’t suffer the same volatility as copper does. While lead times for copper can be unpredictable during market disruptions, stainless steel supply chains are more resilient. This provides greater confidence in suppliers meeting customer demand consistently, and consumers having access to the product when needed.

This results in easier and more accurate budgeting, particularly for large-scale or multi-phase builds where consistent pricing is key.

And let’s not forget copper theft, which is a growing issue in Australia. Unlike stainless steel, copper has high resale value on the black market, making it a target for theft on construction sites. Stolen piping means unexpected costs, construction delays, and even serious safety concerns.

2. Installation Time and Labour: Pressfit Stainless Saves Hours of Labour


Traditional copper pipe installations often require skilled labour, soldering equipment, and hot works permits. This adds time and compliance complexity to every piping install. If rework is needed or you’re dealing with tight spaces, things can get even trickier.

The Surepress stainless steel piping system uses pressfit technology. This means no welding, no flames, and a much faster turnaround. Pressing joints can be done in seconds, even in challenging locations, thanks to low profile press tools that allow for easier manoeuvring and operation.

Given all the compelling factors around Surepress stainless steel pressfit versus copper installations, installers regularly report time savings of up to 30% compared to copper installs.

The Surepress stainless steel solution also features accurate QA features that verify if the joint has been successful, thanks to the pressfit quality sleeve seal. This sleeve includes a thin coloured film that tears away when the joint is pressed correctly. If any film remains attached, it indicates to the installer that the joint is not hermetically sealed, and can be fixed straight away. Coupled with the patented leak-path O ring technology which is not susceptible to deforming during the pressing process like conventional circular O rings, the results are leak-proof, guaranteed.

Less time on site means lower labour costs, faster commissioning, and reduced risk of delays. That’s a major win for both project managers and those on the tools, plus providing confidence through the quality assurance process that each pressfit stainless steel joint has been done right.

3. Maintenance and Corrosion Resistance: Stainless Wins on Reliability


When it comes to corrosion resistance, stainless steel outperforms copper, especially in aggressive or coastal environments. Copper pipes are vulnerable to pitting, de-zincification and leaching, particularly if the water is acidic or carries chlorine.

Stainless steel forms a protective chromium oxide layer, which essentially self-heals in the presence of oxygen. This gives it exceptional resistance to rust, scaling and internal buildup. That means fewer system breakdowns, lower maintenance costs and peace of mind.

For facility managers and engineers, stainless steel reduces the risk of unplanned outages and expensive repairs, especially in hospitals, commercial kitchens or industrial plants, where preventing downtime can be critical.

4. Longevity and Return On Investment: Stainless Pays Off in the Long Run


In real-world scenarios, stainless has a longer replacement cycle and better performance under pressure, literally! In many commercial and industrial applications, stainless steel piping can outlast copper by 20–30 years, particularly in systems exposed to fluctuating temperatures, high pressure, or corrosive chemicals. That long-term durability translates into serious savings over the lifecycle of the system.

When you factor in replacement costs, downtime and reactive maintenance, cost comparisons tend to favour stainless steel over copper as the smarter long-term investment.

5. Risk Reduction and Insurance: Stainless Pressfit Piping is the Safer Bet


It’s not just about performance; it’s also about avoiding risk. Copper piping is more prone to pinhole leaks and failures, especially if installed in corrosive environments or subjected to poor water quality. These failures can lead to water damage, contamination and even insurance claims.

Some insurers now consider the use of non-pressurised copper piping in certain installations to be higher risk, especially in multi-storey developments. Stainless steel’s superior fire resistance, strength and failure resilience help lower those risks.

Conclusion: The Smart Choice is Stainless Pressfit with Surepress


When it comes to copper piping versus stainless steel pressfit, the decision goes far beyond materials. From budgeting and labour to long-term performance and risk evaluations, stainless steel emerges as the smarter, safer and more cost-effective option, thanks to the following characteristics:
Here are some of the achievements so far:

• Less susceptible to price spikes and theft
• Faster, safer installation with pressfit technology
• Lower maintenance and longer lifespan
• Better corrosion resistance in demanding environments

For engineers, installers and project managers who want reliable performance and reduced headaches, the Surepress stainless steel piping solution ticks all the boxes. It’s helping Australian projects, both commercial and small-scale, to run smoother, safer and more efficiently.

Explore the Surepress range and get the facts through Allmach’s Piping Guide, or call Allmach’s technical team on 1300 625 562 to discuss your project needs, and get expert advice on switching from copper to stainless.

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