Trying to figure out the best plumbing pipe to use for your next project?
Today, you’re getting 7 solid reasons to consider using PEX tubing.
PEX is a fantastic choice for both residential and commercial plumbing. More and more professional plumbers are transitioning to the plastic pipe.
Here are the 7 reasons why PEX might just be one of the best plumbing pipes:
1. PEX is ridiculously fast & easy to install.
Anyone can make watertight plumbing connections using PEX.
Even my 6-year-old daughter (no joke).
There are lots of different systems and tools used with PEX…
But hands down expansion PEX is the top choice.
Both Dewalt and Milwaukee both make a great tool for expansion PEX.
These tools make plumbing water lines fast and easy.
DEWALT 20V MAX Pex Expander Tool, 1-Inch, Tool Only (DCE400B)
Milwaukee 2432-22 M12 12V Propex Expansion Tool Kit
If the above two options are too pricey, here is an affordable alternative…
EFIELD PEX-A EXPANSION TOOL KIT – INCLUDES 1/2INCH, 3/4INCH. AND 1INCH EXPANDER HEADS
You can forget about flux, solder, plumbing torches, and glue because you don’t need it. PEX fits together with rings or clamps and doesn’t require any specialized training.
On top of that, think of all the brain cells you’ll salvage by not having to inhale CPVC cement.
2. PEX Tubing is affordable.
PEX requires fewer fittings than copper because it comes in long rolls and can easily be bent around obstacles. This is both a big time saver and cost saver.
Copper prices fluctuate all the time. PEX prices are consistent.
- 200 feet of ½” copper will run around $240 (plus fittings).
- 200 feet of ½” PEX cost under $90.
SharkBite, White, PEX Pipe 1/2 Inch, Flexible Tube, Potable Water, Push-to-Connect Plumbing Fittings, U860W100, 100 Foot Coil
3. DIY Friendly
You don’t necessareily need fancy tools to install Pex.
It’s easy to cut…
IWISS PEX Pipe Cutters for Cutting 1/8″-1-inch PEX Tubings, not for PVC Pipes
Pex installs in seconds on SharkBite shut off valves…
SharkBite 23037-0000LF Brass Push Valves, 1/2″ x 3/8″
4. PEX Pipe is Resistant to corrosion.
Since PEX is plastic it will not corrode like metal pipes.
Independent tests demonstrated it was not susceptible to pitting or corrosion.
5. PEX plumbing pipe is more resistant to freezing water.
When water freezes inside copper or CPVC pipe it will burst.
Water can still freeze inside PEX. However, because it’s plastic it has the fantastic ability to expand without cracking or splitting!
This makes PEX one of the best plumbing pipes for cold weather. Copper and CPVC simply don’t have the ability to expand.
6. PEX is code friendly
PEX plumbing systems are recognized in all major building codes and is approved for use in all 50 states.
But there is an area where you need to be cautious with PEX…
It’s around water heaters.
UPC Code 604.11.2 Water Heater Connections. PEX tubing shall not be installed within the first eighteen (18) inches of piping connected to a water heater.
But don’t fret.
There is an easy fix thanks to these flexible metal hoses.
SharkBite U3088FLEX18BVLF, 3/4-Inch x 3/4-Inch x 18-Inch lgth, Silver
7. No water hammer with PEX
Water moving through ridged copper pipes can be noisy and very annoying.
Since PEX tubing is flexible it’s much better at absorbing pressure and water hammer is virtually eliminated.
So there you have it. 7 reasons you may want to consider PEX for your next plumbing project.