Press Fit Vs MLCP: Which System Should You Use?

The choice between Copper Press Fit and Multilayer Composite Pipe (MLCP) depends largely on your project's scale, budget, and specific environment. As of 2025, MLCP is increasingly favored for its flexibility and lower material cost, while Copper remains the standard for fire safety and exposed aesthetics. 

Comparison Table: At a Glance

Feature	Copper Press Fit	MLCP (Multi-Layer Composite Pipe)
Material Cost	High (subject to market fluctuations)	Low (roughly 1/3 the cost of copper)
Installation Speed	Fast (21% faster than soldering)	Very Fast (30–40% faster than copper)
Flexibility	Low; requires fittings for every bend	High; can be bent by hand
Durability	Decades; high UV/heat resistance	50-year design life; corrosion resistant
Fire Safety	Excellent; non-combustible	Burns quickly; releases toxic gases
Best For	Plant rooms, exposed pipework, high-fire-risk areas	Domestic first-fixes, tight voids, and long runs

When to Choose Copper Press Fit

• High-Pressure/High-Heat Environments: Copper has a high melting point (1,085°C) and handles extreme temperatures and pressures better than composite alternatives.

• Exposed Installations: For visible pipework, copper provides a cleaner, professional look. It is also resistant to UV radiation, unlike plastic layers that can degrade in sunlight.

• Maximum Fire Safety: Copper is inherently fire-resistant. Recent 2025 studies highlight that MLCP can burn through in five minutes, whereas copper will not contribute to the spread of flames or toxic smoke.

• Hygienic/Antimicrobial Needs: Copper is naturally biostatic, preventing the growth of bacteria and biofilm. 

Press Fit Fittings At Edwins Plumbing & Heating Supplies

When to Choose MLCP

• Budget-Conscious Projects: MLCP is significantly cheaper than copper, and its price remains stable compared to the volatile copper market.

• Complex Routing: Because it is flexible, MLCP can be snaked through floor joists and around corners with fewer fittings, reducing both labor time and potential leak points.

• Corrosion Resistance: MLCP is immune to the pinhole leaks and "blue water" corrosion often found in copper systems in areas with aggressive water conditions.

• Noise Reduction: The plastic layers in MLCP provide superior acoustic dampening, reducing the sound of water flow through the building. 

MLCP Fittings At Edwins Plumbing & Heating Supplies

Installation Note

Both systems require a significant upfront investment in pressing tools. While these tools are expensive, they eliminate the need for "hot works" (soldering/flame), which improves site safety and reduces insurance risks.