PEX Pipe: A Flexible Piping Solution

If you’re building a new home, remodeling your current home or require plumbing repairs that include new piping, you may be interested in learning more about PEX piping.

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This type of piping is popular among plumbers due to its durability, flexibility and affordability. Whether your plumber is using PEX piping or you’re planning a DIY project and considering what material to use, it’s important to understand how PEX works and the benefits it offers. This article discusses these topics and more.

What Is PEX Piping?

PEX piping is a cross-linked polyethylene material. As a plastic, it offers greater flexibility than metal pipes, including copper and steel. Initially, this material was used solely for radiant floor heating systems. Most plumbers steered away from PEX piping as a whole-house solution at first because fluoride in many water systems could damage the piping over time.

However, scientists found a way to minimize this issue to make it safe to carry fluoridated water. Today, both commercial and residential contractors frequently use PEX piping when constructing or renovating properties.

These pipes are often color-coded to avoid confusion: Red PEX pipes carry hot water, while blue pipes carry cold water. This color-coded system makes it easier for plumbers to follow the piping in your house and make repairs.

How Does PEX Plumbing Work?

One of the leading benefits of PEX piping is its size. These pipes range in length from 1 to 500 feet. This allows plumbers to install a PEX water line for your entire home without soldering pieces together along the way.

When making plumbing repairs, such as repairing a leaky pipe, you only need to replace a portion of the piping. This makes it necessary to splice PEX fittings so you can secure them to your current pipes. You need special tools to complete the PEX pipe installation process, including copper crimp rings and cinch clamps. These tools allow you to efficiently secure your new piping to the old.

How Is PEX Different From Metal Pipe Materials?

Prior to PEX piping, most plumbers used copper or steel pipes during construction. However, there are numerous reasons why plumbers prefer PEX piping.

Better Water Temperature

Metals, such as copper, are natural conductors. Water can lose heat as it travels through the pipe, impacting the water temperature at the faucet. PEX piping works as an insulant to maintain the water temperature as it travels through the pipes. This benefit offers better performance for the homeowner and can help reduce energy costs.

Size of Piping

Because PEX piping can be made at extreme lengths of 500 feet or more, plumbers prefer using it in new construction projects. This option can create a seamless water flow and minimize the risk of leaks. Metal piping isn't as flexible. Plumbers must use a series of pipes and solder joints to connect the pipes. Unfortunately, this can lead to drainage issues and water leaks.

Ease of Replacement

Fortunately, PEX piping is easy to connect to metal piping. This advantage allows plumbers to make repairs using this plastic piping without needing to replace the entire water line.

Freeze-Resistant

A main concern for homeowners during the winter months is frozen pipes. This issue can cause the pipes to burst and cause massive damage to your home and personal property. The best way to protect metal pipes is to wrap them in insulation to ensure they don’t freeze. This isn't as big of a challenge for PEX piping. Its cross-linked polyethylene material actually expands when needed, which can prevent pipes from bursting.

Corrosion-Free

PEX piping is also corrosion-free. This is a huge benefit because it avoids the risk of contaminants getting into your drinking water. Unfortunately, both copper and steel can corrode. Over time, this corrosion can damage your pipe, requiring repairs, or put your drinking water at risk.

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What Is the Disadvantage of PEX Piping?

PEX piping also has some cons to be aware of.

Nonrecyclable Material

One way metal piping is better than PEX is its ability to be recycled. Both copper and steel can be melted down and reused, which is better for the environment. Currently, PEX is not recyclable, and old pipes end up in landfills.

Not Suitable for Outdoor Use

Another advantage of metal piping is the ability to use it for both indoor and outdoor plumbing projects. PEX tubing can’t be used outside because UV rays can cause it to crack and break in a short period.

If you've never used PEX piping before, it's recommended you talk to a professional plumber who can help you determine if this is the right material for your project or repairs.