When it comes to plumbing, most homeowners want durable pipes that will stand the test of time. While copper and CPVC are great choices for home water supply systems, PEX tubing is becoming increasingly popular. PEX is a flexible pipe that resists cracking and freezing and is easier to work with than traditional piping. In fact, installing a PEX system can save you money over traditional piping due to the lower cost of supplies and the ease with which it’s installed. In addition, PEX pipes are durable and can handle the pressure and temperature fluctuations in your home water supply system.
While many DIYers have jumped on the PEX bandwagon, working with this type of plumbing isn’t for everyone. PEX can be difficult to cut or bend if you don’t use the proper tools and may need special connectors to ensure that it holds up to high water pressure. There are several different types of PEX tubing and pipe, but all have the same basic properties.
PEX-A is the most common type of PEX tubing used for residential plumbing applications. It has a higher resistance to acidic water than other types of PEX. In addition, it has a higher bursting pressure rating than other types of PEX. PEX-B is also a good choice for residential plumbing. It has a lower resistance to acidic water than PEX-A, but a higher bursting pressure rating than PEX-A.
Both PEX-A and PEX-B are resistant to oxidation, meaning that they will not develop leaks as easily as other types of piping. However, they are not immune to corrosion. This is why most people choose to use PVC pipe with brass fittings. These will provide a strong, durable seal against corrosion and leaks.
There are three main reasons why you might choose to install pex tubing in your house: durability, reduced number of joints, and expansion ability. These advantages make it a better choice than traditional piping materials like copper or CPVC.
PEX is durable because it’s made from a plastic that’s designed to hold up under high temperatures. The material is also resistant to damage from work-site mishaps and shipping. In addition, it doesn’t need to be soldered to connect the pieces together.
One disadvantage of pex tubing is that it is susceptible to rodent damage. Some homeowners have reported that rodents chew through the pipes to gain access to the water inside. Fortunately, this issue is usually easy to resolve by setting mouse traps or removing any food sources that attract rodents.
In order to prevent a rodent infestation, you should keep all of your pipes clean and dry. This includes storing them indoors and away from any windows that receive sunlight. In addition, it’s a good idea to store your PEX tubes in a well-ventilated area. This will help to reduce the amount of moisture in the air, which can lead to bacterial growth and other issues. Finally, you should also avoid exposing your PEX to harsh chemicals or acidic foods that could damage it.
