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What are PEX Plumbing Pipes, and Do They Last?

PEX piping is becoming one of the most popular methods of plumbing today. There are many reasons why people choose PEX over plastic or copper piping, but there’s things you should know before choosing piping for your home or business.

Let’s clarify a few things so you can decide whether PEX piping is the best choice for your home or business.

What is PEX piping?

PEX piping is made from long strands of polyethylene (PE) plastic extruded into hollow tubes or sheets. These tubes are cut into smaller lengths and joined together using special tools to form fittings. The fittings are connected to one another using crimp rings or compression fittings, which allow for a tight seal between the two ends of the fitting.

There are two main reasons why PEX piping comes in different colors. The first is to make the pipes easier to identify and follow. The second is that you can use different colors to determine the temperature of the water flowing through the pipes.

 

When is PEX piping used?

PEX pipes are a good option when looking for a flexible, durable, and long-lasting pipe. In addition, PEX is a great alternative to copper and PVC pipes, saving you money and time on installation.

PEX piping can be used in several different areas of the home, including:

  • Hot water supply lines
  • Cold water supply lines
  • Radiant floor heating systems

How long do PEX pipes last?

PEX pipes are made of polyethylene and have a lifespan of up to fifty years. But this depends on the quality of material used to make them and how well they’re installed and maintained.

plumbing meme

However, if they are not installed correctly by a professional plumber, or if there’s no maintenance plan, their lifespan will be greatly reduced.

The Pros and Cons of PEX Piping

Are PEX pipes suitable for your plumbing job? Consider the pros and cons before you decide.

Pros

It’s cheaper than copper

One of the biggest advantages of PEX piping is its cost. PEX tubing is made of polyethylene and is much less expensive than copper or galvanized steel.

Easy to install

PEX comes in various sizes, so you can choose the appropriate size for your project. And because PEX is flexible, it can easily conform to a curved shape or bend around corners.

PEX has fewer joints than copper, and many connections can be made by crimping connectors on the ends of the pipe. There’s no soldering required!

Easier to cut

PEX is flexible and can be bent into a curve. It’s also easy to cut with a utility knife or pipe cutter. Equally, PEX is much lighter than other types of pipes, making it easier for plumbers to work with and for homeowners to install.

Corrosion and freeze resistant

PEX pipe is freeze-resistant, which means that it can withstand freezing temperatures. This is a benefit over copper and other types of plumbing because they are susceptible to cracking or breaking when exposed to extreme cold.

frozen pipe

Natural icicles hanging on the pipe, the concept of winter

Another downside of copper pipes is that they corrode over time, especially if exposed to acidic water. PEX pipe, on the other hand, is made of cross-linked polyethylene plastic, which resists corrosion from acidic or alkaline water.

Drinking water safe

PEX tubing has been designed specifically for use with drinking water systems. For example, it’s far less likely to corrode over time, like copper does. Beyond that, PEX tubing is also non-reactive, so it won’t leach harmful chemicals into your drinking water.

Reduced plumbing joints reducing leak points

Because PEX is flexible, it can be bent around corners and into tighter areas where traditional pipes require extra fittings or joints. This means fewer places for leaks to form and less work for you when installing new lines.

Cons

It can’t be used outside

PEX piping begins to degrade when exposed to the sun’s UV rays.

They’re also not designed to withstand freezing outdoor temperatures and are likely to crack after just one season outside. So, if you decide to install PEX piping outdoors, you need to insulate it properly before burying it in the ground or hiding it under concrete slabs.

Rodent attacks

Rodents like to live in the walls of your home, and they are notorious for chewing through PEX piping. They usually do this because they can smell water running through them and need water. They also use the plastic from the pipes to build their nests.

If you notice any rodent activity around your Los Angeles home, you must take action as soon as possible.

Looking for affordable and efficient plumbing services for your home or business? Contact the JW Heating and Air experts today for a competitive quote.