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.
The insulated design of PEX piping makes it far more efficient. What this means for homeowners is that PEX allows water to achieve the desired temperature much faster compared to copper. In addition to requiring more energy to heat water, copper piping also wastes significantly more water compared to PEX pipes.
Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) pipes are the go-to pipes trusted by plumbers everywhere to safely deliver hot and cold water throughout your home.
Copper pipes are pretty terrible. Copper reacts with minerals and chemical additives in the water. After a long time, the copper pipe will wear out. You end up with a leak.
PEX pipes are generally a better choice for most residential projects due to their lower cost, flexibility, easier installation, and resistance to corrosion and scale buildup. They are particularly suited for retrofits and areas with problematic water conditions.
Copper pipes outshine PEX pipes in terms of longevity. On average, copper pipes impressively endure for 50 to 70 years, whereas PEX pipes have an expected lifespan of 30 to 50 years.
Cross-linked polyethylene, or PEX, is the new standard when it comes to repiping your house. Since it is made of plastic it is a more cost-effective alternative to copper. Pex is easier to install and lighter in weight, reducing shipping costs too.
Its popularity soared after lead pipes became obsolete due to their unsafe nature. Today, plumbers still install copper pipes quite regularly, but you have a wide variety of other materials to choose from, too. PVC and PEX are both common and tend to be more affordable than copper.
Disadvantages of Copper Pipes
Copper piping is expensive. It can cost 10 to 15 times more when compared to other types of pipes. Copper may also freeze easily. If your home runs on well water, copper pipes could have problems if the water is acidic.
PEX often lasts around 50 years. However, PEX is more durable and has more flexibility than PVC and CPVC. Also, because PEX is made from cross-linked polyethylene, it won't corrode.
What are the disadvantages of PEX plumbing? Since it is a plastic material, rodents seem to like to chew on it. Also, it can't be used outdoors because it doesn't like the UV rays or the cold weather, as well as it can't be recycled (although you can paint the portions that are exposed to sunlight).
PVC can last even longer than steel or copper, which are some of the most durable metals for plumbing pipes. Ability to handle pressure: PVC can withstand high water pressure, which makes it an excellent choice for the main supply line in your home.
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.
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.
Yes, PEX tubing can be connected to existing copper plumbing systems using approved fittings like push-fit connectors or sweat adapters, ensuring an effective seal between both materials and maintaining overall system integrity.
Poly PEX Fittings
For example, when there is poor water quality or other corrosive materials in the line, plastic is the superior choice because brass is more apt to corrode.
The major reason for the rise of alternative piping is cost. Copper plumbing piping is more expensive than plastic piping, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). The latter is quickly becoming a standard in many residential applications for its strength and flexibility.
Long-term exposure to copper can cause irritation of the nose, mouth and eyes and it causes headaches, stomachaches, dizziness, vomiting and diarrhea. Intentionally high uptakes of copper may cause liver and kidney damage and even death. Whether copper is carcinogenic has not been determined yet.
PEX pipe is not only cheaper than copper but more durable too. PEX is immune to corrosion and mineral build-up, and it's not affected by electrolysis, which can cause small pinhole leaks in copper piping.
With proper installation, copper plumbing should last you at least 50 years, though it can last you upwards of 60 or 70 years if you maintain your pipes properly.
Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a life span of 80 to 100 years, copper lasts 70 to 80 years, and PVC piping only survives for 24 to 50 years. In most new construction, this is seldom a problem, but if you live in an old home you might want to see what pipe material your house has.
While it is more expensive than pex, your plumbing isn't something you should scrimp on for new construction. 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.
PVC is most commonly used for drain, waste, and vent lines. It is not recommended for use in potable water lines because it can leach chemicals into the water.
Polyvinyl chloride pipes (PVC) are commonly used as part of a sink, toilet, or shower drain line. Its plastic tubing is ideal for this kind of usage because it protects the water from rust and corrosion better than other types of pipes. This capability also makes PVC pipe incredibly durable.