As a property owner, you want to ensure that all the plumbing installations in your home are sound and long-lasting. You’ve probably heard that pipes are generally made of copper, but now materials such as PEX are also very commonly used in plumbing installations. We at McKenna Plumbing like to ensure our customers have all the information they need about different plumbing material options.
Here we take a look at what these materials are, what their pros and cons are, and how they stand up against each other: this will help you make a more well-informed decision about the one you choose for your home.
Copper vs. PEX
About PEX Pipes - The Facts
- This is an abbreviation for cross-linked polyethylene pipe.
- It is a very strong and long-lasting material that is able to withstand low as well as high temperatures.
- It can endure creep deformation caused by alkalis and acids. This makes PEX suitable for cold and hot water plumbing installations. It can resist breaking in colder temperatures.
- Fewer joints than copper, which reduces the chances of leakage.
- Every supply line has valves, which comes in handy in case you need to have any repair work done.
- PEX plumbing can contract and expand in response to temperatures and stress, so it’s less likely to burst.
- Flexible and installation-friendly.
- Compatible with PVC and metal pipes.
- More cost-effective option than copper.
- Not suitable for outdoor installations.
- Can have a pressure balance system (optional).
- Shorter life and it isn’t recyclable.
- When these pipes are left outdoor for longer periods of time, they could get damaged.
About Copper Pipes - The Facts
- Flexible and long-lasting.
- Due to its biostatic atmosphere, it’s able to reduce bacteria.
- Corrosion-resistant (except when the water quality is excessively acidic or basic).
- Copper plumbing is able to withstand UV rays unaltered; this makes it ideal for outdoor installations.
- Chances of pipe bursts in lower temperatures.
- Possibility of a metallic taste in the water.
- Flame retardant.
- Doesn’t give off any toxic fumes in a fire.
- Safe in natural disasters such as earthquakes - this is because it doesn’t snap easily.
- Recyclable, which makes it eco-friendly.
- It’s a little more expensive than PEX.
Hire Expert Plumbing Professionals
As you can see, both of these materials have their advantages and disadvantages. It’s important that you keep all these aspects in view before making your final choice. Get advice from your local, experienced plumber who would also be able to handle the installation work for you.
We at McKenna Plumbing are a licensed and insured company that uses high-grade materials in all our projects and provide guarantees for our work. We can provide you all the information and advice you need about Copper vs. PEX which can help you choose the material best-suited to your requirement and budget. You are assured of the best services at the most reasonable cost. If you are considering doing any repiping in your home, don’t hesitate to call us right away.