PEX plumbing has several advantages over metal piping (copper) and plastic pipe systems. PEX is a cross-linked polyethylene that is flexible, doesn’t corrode, faster to install compared to others, and has less connections. PEX is very durable and costs less than copper pipes. It is crucial that you pick the correct pipe for you and your home.
Advantages To Using PEX Piping
- One huge advantage of PEX pipe is pricing. On average it costs 25% less than copper! When piping your home with PEX, the repair company charges you $0.40 to $0.50 per linear foot. Where copper costs about $3-$8 per linear foot. Piping your house with PEX can save you thousands of dollars!
- PEX is also flexible, making it easy to be shipped. Since it is so flexible it is stored on spools, whereas, metal has to be cut to a certain length and shipped. The flexibility PEX has makes shipping and handling less because of decreased weight and storage options.
- The installation process of PEX piping is shortened due to the fact that running pipes is easier. The fittings around PEX pipe are easier to attach than rigid pipe systems.
- Copper is rigid, meaning that each piece must be cut to size. Elbow fittings are also part of the process to use when it comes to corner turns. Unlike copper, PEX is flexible and easy to maneuver around corners and through small spaces. PEX runs continuously from the water distribution panel to each fixture, such as a tub or sink. When it comes to remodeling a home, PEX is the better route because it can be snaked through finished walls without having to cut through drywall.
- PEX also offers a central shut off meaning that each individual pipe has its own valve shutoff located at the manifold. The manifold is usually located where the water main enters the house. Labels are located on each shutoff valve-like “bathtub” or “kitchen sink”. This helps make things easier when you are needing to repipe because you are not having to shut off all water, just the pipe you are getting fixed. It’s kind of like your breaker system in your home.
- PEX is DIY friendly*, for those who could do it on their own, or who dare to mess with it.
- PEX pipes can be connected in numerous ways with easy-to-use fittings. One of the most common and easiest connections is quick-connect fittings, connecting by just pushing them together. Crimp fittings can be connected by using a crimp tool, just like clamp fittings use a clamp tool. Since PEX piping is flexible you will only need to make two connections, one at the manifold and the other at the fixture itself.
- Attaching PEX tube to fittings doesn’t require soldering, so that eliminates the health hazards involved with acid fluxes. PEX pipes are also safer to install because there is no torch needed to fuse the pipes together.
- PEX is also more resistant to freezing temperatures than copper. PEX also does not transfer heat as readily as other metal pipes do.
- Water flows more quietly through PEX pipes than it does for copper piping.
It is important to have all and any information when it comes to picking the best piping for your home. Luckily Allied is certified and can help you with repiping your home with PEX pipes. Give us a call if you have any questions or would like a free quote.
*Permission to install PEX on your own depends on the building codes in your community, so be sure to contact your local building authority before you begin the process.