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.
Check for things like bends that are too tight; misaligned crimp rings; crimp rings that cover the end of the pipe (about 1/8'' should show past the crimp ring, according to manufacturers I know); fittings should be inserted fully into the pipe; pipe supported at minimum intervals.
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.
Average Cost. If you are looking into replacing your home's plumbing pipes, you will typically spend between $2,250 and $15,000 for PEX piping OR between $2,500 and $15,000 for copper piping, including labor and materials. To narrow that down, re-piping a small 1-bathroom home with PEX costs about $2,000-$3,000.
With a lifespan of 40 to 50 years or more, PEX pipes offer a durable and cost-effective solution for modern plumbing systems. Their resistance to corrosion, ease of installation, and flexibility make them an excellent choice for homeowners and businesses alike.
Material Concerns: One of the primary concerns about Pex plumbing is the material itself. While Pex pipes are undoubtedly flexible, making them easier to install in tight spaces, they are not as durable as traditional materials like copper or even PVC.
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.
Defective Manufacturing ISSUES
Some PEX pipe manufacturers use cost-cutting processes which lead to pipes that aren't uniform in composition and are defective. Defective PEX pipes will not last 50+ years as advertised and quickly degrade and become brittle when exposed to hot chlorinated water.
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.
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.
Pinch Clamp Tools Work Better in Tight Spaces
Especially when your PEX is pressed up against a wall—or there is just otherwise very little wiggle room to work—crimp tools can become a much bigger hassle. The larger jaw of the tool means you need ample room behind your PEX to be able to make a proper connection.
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.
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.
At what temperature will PEX freeze and burst? PEX pipes are extremely burst- and freeze-resistant because of their insulation properties and natural flexibility. However, at certain temperatures, even PEX can no longer stand up to the elements. The temperature cutoff for PEX pipes is around -7°C.
It is generally recommended to fasten the tubing at every 32 inches when running it alongside a joist and at least every 6 feet if the tubing is supported by beams and running across them. Plastic straps and hangers are recommended but metal supports that are designed for use with plastic tubing can also be used.
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.
PEX Pipe Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.
Is PEX safe for drinking water? Yes, our PEX-a and PEX-b are both safe for drinking water. Our piping system solutions are all third-party tested through IAPMO or NSF to the following standards: NSF/ANSI 61 drinking water systems components - health effects.
Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) pipes are the go-to pipes trusted by plumbers everywhere to safely deliver hot and cold water throughout your home.
Chlorine Degradation Near PEX Fittings
Improper installation is a common cause of leaking in and around PEX fittings, but not the only cause. One issue PEX systems have to contend with is incompatibility with local water conditions.
PEX A offers higher burst resistance, capable of withstanding up to 500 PSI in extreme cold, while PEX B, being more rigid, is less resilient.
PEX plumbing lacks versatility because of its sensitivity to light. PEX cannot be taken anywhere outside the house where it is directly exposed to UV for a long period. The synthetic material of the pipes can slowly disintegrate due to the light of the sun.
PEX: Due to its flexibility and durability, PEX piping should last at least 50 years. PVC / CPVC: Under typical conditions, these pipes should last up to 100 years. Keep in mind that PVC pipes are often used for drainage because extreme heat can damage them.
Based on this analysis, the PEX pipe material examined appears to have good resistance to chlorinated water. References 1. USEPA.