PEX pipe (cross-linked polyethylene) has gained in popularity due to its lower cost and versatility. However, there are a few things you should consider when selecting this material for your home plumbing system.
One disadvantage of PEX is its susceptibility to damage caused by sunlight and rodents. This could result in leaks or pinhole leaks which may lead to water contamination.
Cost
PEX pipe costs, on average, 25 percent less than copper. Furthermore, it’s more flexible and can fit into tight spaces where copper cannot. Unlike traditional copper and galvanized steel water systems with main lines that branch off to each fixture, PEX pipes can wind through walls and floors without the need for multiple connections.
Homerun plumbing, or pipes running from a manifold to each hot and cold water fixture in the home, is another great choice. Utilizing this system eliminates the risk of leaks at multiple connection points and lowers maintenance expenses.
Furthermore, this material is resistant to corrosion and sediment buildup – making it perfect for homes with wells or a groundwater system.
However, you should avoid installing it outdoors as UV rays can break the molecular structure of plastic tubing and make it brittle and rip apart, potentially leading to leaks in the future.
Additionally, rodents have the potential to chew through plastic tubing. If your home is in an area prone to rodent activity, consider installing copper instead of PEX plumbing.
Repiping your home with PEX can cost anywhere from $4,200 to $6,000. The amount will depend on the size and if there are any nooks or crannies that need to be demolished.
Installing a new repiping system can be a huge job, especially if you’re doing it yourself. Fortunately, PEX piping is much simpler to install than other materials such as copper and PVC.
Repairing and replacing plastic tubing if it becomes damaged is simpler. Plastic tubing can be bent or twisted into place, making connecting pipes between them a snap.
PEX pipe comes in a range of colors, such as red, blue and white to help distinguish hot from cold water. Plumbers usually use red pipes to connect hot-water appliances and white ones for cold applications.
One of the most essential considerations when working with PEX is that it’s a “memory” material. Coils of it might not fit perfectly on most jobs due to their flexibility; you could end up with kinks or stretches which cannot be repaired and cannot affect other pieces of your job.
Durability
PEX plumbing material has seen a recent surge in popularity due to its versatility, affordability and sustainability. Not only is it simple to install, durable and corrosion resistant – making it an ideal choice for homes as well as commercial buildings – but its antibacterial properties also make it a perfect fit.
PEX piping’s longevity depends on a number of factors, including how it’s installed and maintained. To ensure maximum longevity, pressure testing must be conducted regularly and all pipes should be evenly distributed throughout the home to prevent leaks.
Another important factor to consider is whether the material is susceptible to freezing and bursting. While copper has more burst resistance than PEX, it can still crack under extreme temperatures.
In addition, high concentrations of chlorine in household water can drastically reduce the lifespan of pipes and lead to leaks. This is because water will degrade antioxidants present in cross-linked polyethylene.
However, with proper sanitation and non-chlorinated pipes, PEX piping can last for decades.
Copper and PVC are more rigid, which makes them easier to work with in tight spaces since they won’t kink or crack as easily. Furthermore, plastic plumbing systems can be installed inside walls for added flexibility.
PEX comes in three varieties: PEX-A, B and C. PEX-A is the most malleable, expanding dramatically when exposed to freezing water. A 10-foot piece of PEX-A costs from $3.50 to $7.50 depending on brand and diameter.
Although many plumbers have switched to PEX, there are potential issues that could cause it to fail prematurely. These include improper installation and overexposure to UV light.
To guarantee the longevity of your plumbing system, it is best to install it in a dry location that won’t be affected by sunlight or other external elements. Furthermore, proper care and upkeep must be given such as replacing corroded sections with new ones when necessary.
Another common cause of failure is failure to follow pressure testing requirements. This can result in leaks that cause expensive and unsightly damage to walls, floors and fixtures; plus it could void your warranty.
Installation
PEX piping is a popular option for homeowners, especially those looking to save money on plumbing projects. It can be installed quickly and easily, making it ideal for minor repairs or full repiping jobs.
PEX pipes come in various lengths, making it easier to find the ideal choice for your project. Furthermore, they can be bent to form different shapes – ideal for tight corners and angles!
However, it’s essential to remember that PEX is vulnerable to damage from chemicals and pests, so take necessary precautions when installing this material. This includes placing protective materials around the pipe and checking regularly for leaks.
UV (ultraviolet) light damage is also possible, making this material unsuitable for outdoor installations. UV rays can corrode the plastic, leading to leaks and mold growth.
Another disadvantage of PEX piping is that it can crack and collapse during extreme temperatures, even freezing ones. This is due to its insufficient insulating properties compared to copper.
This is why installing the pipe indoors or under a roof is recommended, to protect it from weather elements. Furthermore, avoid placing it near high-heat sources like near recessed lighting.
If you’re uncertain which piping type is ideal for your home, consulting an expert is a wise move. They can assist in deciding which option works best in light of both the layout of your property and the needs of everyone in it.
For instance, if you have a large family, it might be preferable to select larger pipe size than smaller one. This way, if there are any leaks or the need to replace the entire system in the future, you won’t run out of pipes.
Once you’re ready to begin installing the pex pipe, make a list of all necessary fittings. This includes cinch clamps and copper crimp rings. Additionally, consider whether shut-off valves should be installed at sinks and toilets.
PEX can be joined using two methods: push-fit and expansion. The former is straightforward and swift, though it requires special couplers that feature a stainless steel barbed ring for security.
Maintenance
PEX pipe is an ideal choice for plumbing due to its resistance to corrosion and long lifespan of several decades. This makes it a budget-friendly solution that appeals to many homeowners, especially those on a tight budget or wanting to save money when installing new pipes in their home.
Just like any other type of pipe, PEX pipes need regular maintenance in order to extend their service life and prevent costly repairs. Common maintenance tasks include re-insulating them for freezing temperatures, removing and replacing old pipes, as well as patching up any leaks or cracks within the piping system.
PEX pipes do not rust like metal pipes and are less likely to develop mineral buildup, which could cause issues like discolored water, low pressure, and noisy pipes. Furthermore, it resists scaling and chlorine buildup which could affect water quality and flavor.
PEX pipes are lightweight and simple to install, requiring fewer fittings than copper. As such, PEX makes for a cost-effective plumbing option that appeals to homeowners looking to save on plumbing expenses.
Another advantage of PEX pipe is its resistance to cold temperatures, making it ideal for homeowners living in areas prone to snow and ice. To protect your pipes during these harsh winters, bury or conceal them beneath the ground so they won’t burst or leak during the chill.
Rodents enjoy chewing through plastic, which can lead to the destruction of your PEX pipe. To protect these pipes, keep the house clean and minimize rodent entry points such as holes in foundation or gaps between floor and ceiling. Furthermore, use repellents to keep rats and mice away from your home’s exterior walls.
If your PEX piping has a damaged section, you can replace it by crimping the damaged area with a new one. This repair will restore your PEX pipe’s integrity and allow it to last longer.
Crimping your pipe connection is a quick and reliable way to guarantee its strength and reliability. After placing the crimper tool on the damaged section of your pipe, press down until you hear a clunking sound.
