3 Things to Love About PEX Piping

Are you adding a new bathroom or plumbing appliance, or need to replace existing piping? One option available for plumbing repairs and new application is PEX or cross-linked polyethylene flexible tubing piping. Before you decide which type of pipes to use for your project, consider the benefits of using PEX. Here are three things to love about PEX piping for your indoor plumbing needs.

  1. Less expensive. One of the main selling points of PEX over other piping like copper is that is it cost effective. PEX costs about 25% less than copper and require less labor to install. This can save you plenty on your plumbing project, both in materials and labor costs.
  2. PEX is known for its durability. It is freeze-resistant and does not corrode like other piping. It also stops buildup in the piping, which can make it last longer and prevent clogs. Although it can freeze, it can expand up to eight times before it freezes, making it less likely to burst due to cold temperatures.
  3. Versatile. PEX piping is flexible and small, making it very versatile. It can fit easier in areas where it is difficult to add stiff copper pipe. It can even be threaded under concrete, but it is not appropriate for outdoor use.

If you want to know if PEX can be used in your next plumbing project, talk to your local plumber. In some cases, it can be a better option and may save you money on your project. Your plumber can discuss the benefits and disadvantages of using PEX piping, or why another piping option may be better for your project.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 884-4678

Types of Plastic Pipe

If you are considering tackling that residential plumbing repiping project, you need to understand the different types of plastic pipe used for plumbing applications.  Most plastic pipe for use by the do-it-yourselfer is actually thermoplastic.

PVC pipe is very common.  It is inexpensive and easy to work with.  They usual method of connecting PVC pipes and fittings is solvent welding.  There are a wide variety of adapters that allow PVC to be mechanically connected to fixtures or other types of pipe.  PVC is not suitable for pressurized hot water.  It is an excellent choice for sprinkler systems, sewer lines, and drain pipes.  PVC comes in various colors, the most common being white.

ABS pipe is similar to PVC, except that it has lower chemical resistance.  It is usually black in color.

CPVC pipe is similar to PVC, but it can withstand pressurized hot water.  CPVC is ideal for hot and cold water supply lines.  Like PVC, it is easy to work with and is usually joined using solvent welding.  CPVC pipe is usually a light tan color.

PVC and CPVC are both rigid pipes.  On the other hand, polybutylene (PB) and polyethylene  (PE) pipes are flexible.  Like CPVC, PB pipe is suitable for use in pressurized hot water systems.  Similarly, PE pipe is like PVC pipe in that it is used in cold water systems.  Neither PB nor PE pipe can be solvent welded.  They are joined using mechanical fittings.

Before using any type of plastic pipe, be sure that it meets local building codes.  These usually specify what type of pipe is acceptable for use in different applications.