If you’re new to plumbing world, you would probably not know much about PEX and copper tubes, forget about which one is better and such things!! So we are new, but we want to know why use PEX (what is it?), when to use copper tubing, what is the difference between using PEX and copper for plumbing. Even if one is not intending to do plumbing job himself/herself (I am not gender biased), it helps to know about these things before going for a plumber who does the job for you.
Now you wonder what PEX is, it is this. As mentioned above, PEX is a good plumbing material because it is flexible and yes, the plumbers like it because it is easy to install. PEX doesn’t break in cold weathers, has fewer joints, as said, easier to install so brings the costs down.
Well, copper piping has been around for decades, it is very durable and flexible, and is not that difficult to install also, compared to the iron counterparts. Also, the corrosion reactions are less on the copper surfaces, since it discourages the growth of bacteria on its surface.
So if one asks you “which one would you go for? Copper plumbing or PEX plumbing?” well lets compare them in a sequence and then let your intuition do the work for you.
Advantages of using PEX:
Highly adaptable and easy to use plumbing system. Can be used both with hot water and cold water systems Because of the flexibility, PEX pipes can be bent and moved around the house to fit your needs without any coupling or fitting (not many at least) PEX can be configured to have a balancing system. PEX has very few fittings, so it can be installed very quickly Can be used in conjunction with metal and PVC.
Few disadvantages (just in case you want to know!!)
Probably the biggest disadvantage is that it cannot be used outside. Not really a disadvantage because it wasn’t designed for such use. PEX cannot be recycled. PEX is a impermeable membrane which can be penetrated by pollutants and lead to contamination of water
Lets consider few things about copper, because it has been around for a while and one might consider using that.
Advantages of using copper:
Durable and flexible (the timeless advantage!!) Can be recycled Resistant to bacteria and corrosion Unaffected by UV rays, so can be used outside, unlike PEX Coppers resists burning
Few disadvantages:
It has become relatively expensive The water can sometimes taste metallic due to some corrosion Copper can break and freeze with cold water
To conclude one can use either of the two depending on the preferences. But PEX is slowly gaining popularity and is excellent for internal house piping. Happy plumbing!!
GTGlobe Industries is a manufacturer of PEX tubing, manifolds, and fittings for potable water plumbing and radiant floor heating systems.
