What are the pros and cons of PEX vs copper?

Copper is more likely to freeze and break. One of the biggest disadvantages of copper pipes is their tendency to crack if the water inside freezes and expands. Having a degree of flexibility, PEX is able to expand if the water inside it freezes, making PEX more resistant to freeze-breakage.

Which is better copper or PEX piping?

We generally belive that Plumbing PEX Tubing is much better than Copper for most, if not all, plumbing systems. PEX Tubing is much more resistant to freeze-breakage than copper or rigid plastic pipe. PEX Tubing is cheaper because it takes much less labor to install. PEX Tubing is quickly becoming the industry standard.

Does PEX or copper freeze faster?

But depending on the type of pipe in their house, an exceptionally cold day may not cause the same amount of concern. That’s because a flexible pipe is more likely to perform better in freezing conditions than a rigid one. So copper, PVC and CPVC are more at risk of bursting if water freezes in them than PEX is.

Should you replace copper pipes with PEX?

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.

Does PEX last longer than copper?

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.

What is the advantage of PEX pipe?

Flexibility & Faster Installations One of the main benefits of using PEX pipe versus rigid pipe is its flexibility. PEX can often maneuver around corners without the use of elbows or other additional fittings. This reduces the number of connection points, lowers material cost and minimizes potential leaks.