Providing clean, safe water for your home is a vital service and requires a reliable supply of pipes. Traditionally, pipes in homes have been made of copper, steel, or PVC. However, homeowners are increasingly turning to pex water pipe as a more durable and cost-effective solution for their plumbing needs. PEX is made from cross-linked polyethylene and offers several key advantages over traditional metal pipes.
The most significant advantage of PEX is that it resists cracking from freezing conditions. Unlike copper, which can be prone to freezing and bursting pipes, PEX expands as it freezes, making it less likely to crack or burst.
PEX also provides a number of other benefits. It is easier to work with than traditional pipes, as it is soft and flexible. This makes it easy to bend and install. It is also resistant to chemicals and insulates temperature. In addition, it has a long lifespan and won’t rust like copper pipes do.
When working with PEX pipes, it is important to use only fittings that are designed for the material. Mixing PEX with different materials can result in leaks and other issues. In addition, it is essential to follow all local codes and regulations.
Using PEX is also ideal for creating a central shut off system in your home. Rather than having individual shut off valves for each fixture, you can have a manifold installed and run short “home runs” of one-half inch PEX to each fixture. This will make it much easier to shut off and isolate a specific problem area if necessary. pex water pipe