When joining two copper pipes, what is the typical method?

• A. Welding
• B. Epoxy glue
• C. Compression with ferrules
• D. Soldering (or brazing)

Answer: (D)

Joining copper pipes is done by creating a metallurgical bond with a filler metal, using heat to melt the filler and let it flow into the joint. This method—soldering for smaller, typical residential work (and brazing for larger or high-strength joints)—produces a continuous metal path that seals well under pressure. The steps are straightforward: clean and flux the pipe ends to remove oxidation and promote flow, heat the joint with a torch, and apply filler metal so it flows into the gap by capillary action as the metal wets the copper. Once it cools, the joint is solid and leak-tight. This approach is preferred because it provides reliable, durable joints suited to water pressure and temperature changes, and it aligns with common plumbing practice. Epoxy glue can fail under pressure, welding isn’t practical for typical copper plumbing, and compression with ferrules, while used in some cases, isn’t the standard method for new copper runs.