How do you protect PEX from rodents?

Mice and rats can squeeze through unbelievably small gaps to enter a home, so the first step is to inspect the home’s outside perimeter and seal all holes and gaps around vent pipes with a rodent-proof sealant, such as Tomcat Rodent Block (available from Amazon).

Should I replace PEX with copper?

The installer recommends replacing my copper pipes with PEX. If so, you could get another 23 years out of your copper pipes and spare the cost to replace plumbing. If it’s a small area that’s leaking, you could just replace that section with either PEX or copper. Both types are interchangeable.

What is bad about PEX pipe?

The chlorine in the water inside PEX pipes speed-up the brittle oxidative failure of cross-linked polyethylene. This failure leads to sudden leakage and sometimes even bursting of the pipes. Now, the chlorine degrades the antioxidants first but eventually ends up reaching the pipe and causing failure.

Why do rodents chew PEX?

Rodents Chewing Through PEX Pipe is a common problem in our area. Therefore, a rodent can, and will, gnaw through water pipes to get to food and water when they smell it. Pex Pipe and PVC are Malleable. Finding out you have rodents or other critters living in your house can be an unsettling discovery.

How long does PEX piping last?

Additionally, long-term testing programs on PEX have shown that it has a potential lifespan of more than 100 years. So, while copper systems may have to be re-piped every few years or decades due to corrosion and pinhole leaks, a PEX system can last 10 times longer — or more.

How much does it cost to replace plumbing with PEX?

Compared to copper piping which would cost $8,000 – $10,000 to replace in a two-bathroom home, PEX would only cost on average $4,000 – $6,000 – offering significant cost-saving opportunities. So why is PEX the most cost-effective choice to repipe your home?…

How do I keep squirrels from chewing on copper pipes?

I’d suggest wrapping the pipes in welded wire, hardware cloth or metal flashing. They are less likely to chew on metal, although they will go to town on lead and copper. You also could try providing an alternate source for them, such as a small pile of lumber nearby. Reading this on your phone?

What animal is gnawing on my pipes?

DEAR GENE: It could be squirrels, and probably is. It also might be rats. The teeth of rodents continue to grow throughout their lives and they must gnaw on things in order to keep their teeth short. That doesn’t mean you have to put up with them gnawing on your pipes.

Why do rats gnaw on pipes?

It also might be rats. The teeth of rodents continue to grow throughout their lives and they must gnaw on things in order to keep their teeth short. That doesn’t mean you have to put up with them gnawing on your pipes. It can be difficult to convince rodents — who are highly motivated — to not gnaw on things.