Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) pipes are the go-to pipes trusted by plumbers everywhere to safely deliver hot and cold water throughout your home.
They hate PEX because it's MORE reliable than copper, and much faster/easier to install = less money for them. It's also much less expensive which means they don't make as much on materials if they charge that way.
Plumbers have also noticed that PEX is temperature-resistant in many cases, and its durability closely matches that of CPVC. If you live in colder climates, using PEX will benefit you. Every year across the U.S., 250,000 homes suffer damage to their water pipers due to freezing.
Currently, PEX plumbing is one of the most widely used plumbing systems around the world. It was temporarily banned in California for a while due to concerns about toxic materials but this was later disproven by laboratory tests.
Of course, PEX piping does carry some disadvantages. It will crack and break apart under the influence of strong UV rays (making it unsuitable for most outdoor use). Plumbers require specialized tools to cut and join this type of modern pipe. Additionally, disposing of used PEX pipe sometimes proves problematic.
PEX pipe can be used as a service line based on its corrosion resistance to soil and water, its long life and its oxidative resistance. Our PEX pipe is not suitable for use in areas where the soil is or may become contaminated, including soil used for backfilling.
The problem with PEX seems to be that it's contaminated -- it leaves the factory with chemicals used in its manufacture still on the pipe. In time it cleans up, but during that time those chemicals are going into the water.
Common Causes of PEX Pipe Failures
In addition, extreme bends and kinks place a very high local stress on the wall of the pipe, making it more susceptible to oxidative degradation. This is especially true in southern climates where water chlorine levels run high.
PEX Pipe Is Vulnerable
Rodents Chewing Through PEX Pipe is a common problem in our area. It doesn't matter how old your home is, if you have an attic, you need to watch for rodent damage to PEX Pipe or PVC. If you're hearing rustling noises coming from the attic, it's time to do an inspection.
Although PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is widely used in many parts of the United States for its flexibility and ease of installation, NYC has specific regulations that prohibit its use in plumbing systems.
On average, PEX pipes can last anywhere from 40 to 50 years, and in some cases, even longer. This impressive durability is due to the material's resistance to corrosion, scaling, and chlorine, as well as its ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures.
Copper is usually preferred for water supply lines and heating systems but plex is most often used for drain or waste lines because copper corrodes over time. Ultimately, it's up to the homeowner to decide where to spend the construction budget.
PEX Pipe Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.
Copper Pipes
The most traditional of plumbing materials, copper is the most widely used option due to its durability and reliability. Copper's lifespan can reach well over 100 years at a time with superior corrosion resistance and is easily manageable with hot and cold water.
PEX pipes are the top option for plumbing in Florida. But that doesn't mean you should automatically pass up a house that uses other materials.
The answer is yes! PEX piping is approved for use in potable water systems by regulatory agencies like NSF International and meets strict safety standards for drinking water quality. In fact, many homeowners prefer PEX piping for its clean, tasteless water and resistance to bacterial growth.
It's a good idea to install 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch PEX for your main lines for adequate water flow. When replacing old water supply lines with PEX the standard is to use the same size plumbing, although you can transition from 3/4-inch to 1/2-inch plumbing with an adapter.
Seal any holes you find to stop rodents from entering. Fill small holes with steel wool. Put caulk around the steel wool to keep it in place or use spray foam. Use lath screen or metal, cement, hardware cloth, or metal sheeting to fix larger holes.
The three common types of insulation for PEX tubing are foam pipe insulation, fiberglass insulation, and rubber insulation. Foam pipe insulation is popular and cost-effective, with easy installation. Fiberglass insulation performs well in stable, cold environments but is more expensive.
Quality of Water. One of the biggest downsides of PEX plumbing is that some of them affect the taste and odor of water. It's important to know about this risk before installing PEX water lines in your house.
Testing done that exceeds normative spray foam installation protocols was done to simulate worst case scenarios. In every condition, Genyk spray foam did not weaken or deform the PEX tubing.
Accelerated chlorine degradation can result in pinhole leaks in PEX pipes and fittings relatively early in their expected life. Abrasions or cracks that develop through the pipe wall or “popcorning” discoloration of the surface of PEX pipe are signs of chlorine degradation.
In most cases, PEX is extremely durable and lasts up to 50 years or more. PEX piping is also less likely to crack or break than metal pipe because it does not expand and contract as much when heated and cooled.
Copper has been a standard plumbing pipe material since the 1960s, and with good reason. First, copper is the preferred choice from a safety standpoint because it preserves drinking water quality. Unlike galvanized steel or cast iron, copper is corrosion-resistant and doesn't leach rust or sediment into the water.
Lower Lifespan Than Other Materials
While PEX plumbing is cheaper upfront, the cost benefits may be negligible when you consider that it might not last as long as copper or other materials. PEX pipes have an average lifespan of about 40-50 years, while copper can last over 70 years.