When selcting a waste & overflow for a tub there are a number of code issues that must be considered.

If you have a freestanding tub such as a clawfoot tub, or if you will have access to the waste & overflow either from underneath or through an access panel in the adjacent wall you may use the common tubular slip joint type, but if your tub is skirted and there is no access you are required to use a glue-in or solder-in type waste & overflow.

For single family residential & multi-family residential(not exceeding 4 living units or 3 stories in height) you generally have the option to use either brass or Plastic (PVC & ABS).

For commercial multi-family applications (more than 4 living units or higher than 3 stories many local fire codes require all the DWV pipe to be either copper, brass or cast iron. (the concern is that plastics give off toxic fumes when burning).

As far as durability goes, the plastics (ABS & PVC) have a longer anticipated service life than brass because there are a number of strong acids that are naturally produced in a DWV (drain,waste & vent) system and those acids will ultimately corrode through brass tubing whereas plastic pipe is impervious to the acids.

your screen name is Lucynyc so I am assuming that you may be in New York City. If so, you need to check your local code because most housing in NYC is taller than 3 stories and comes under the commercial residential code, which generally requires the brass.

Thank you! I hadn't even thought of code requirements. We are in a 5-story apartment bldg in NYC. I'll find out from our contractor what the requirements are. I appreciate the information.