PEX Vs Copper: Which Is Better for Plumbing Repairs?
After seeing an Instagram reel with a stunning, Dubai-worthy fountain, you want to replicate the same water feature in your garden. However, your material choice stands in the way. In Florida’s salty, humid air, one piping material is the clear choice as long as there is no sunlight involved.
PEX piping and copper piping are two of the most common types of materials you’ll use for repairs. Each one has its own benefits, which is why it’s so important to talk to an experienced plumber about the best options for your plumbing renovations or repairs.
What Is PEX Piping?
What is PEX? More importantly, how can you use it in your home’s piping systems?
This type of piping is also known as cross-linked polyethylene piping. This is really just a fancy way of saying it’s made from a special kind of plastic.
PEX is known for being flexible, durable, and easy to install. However, it isn’t recommended for outdoor use and can be damaged by rodents.
What Is Copper Piping?
Copper is a conductive metal that is resistant to corrosion. While it is more expensive than PEX, it can also last for years longer. Interestingly, this material’s popularity extends back many centuries. In fact, there are records of copper being used in ancient Egyptian pipes.
Side-By-Side Comparison of Both Materials
To get a better feel for these materials, let’s start by taking a look at a side-by-side comparison of the two piping products.
Features You’ll Love
PEX piping is known for being durable, easy to install, and flexible. In addition to being a cost-effective option, it can withstand a wide range of temperatures.
Meanwhile, copper piping is famous for being able to withstand high pressure and significant temperature fluctuations. It naturally resists corrosion and has impressive longevity.
Additionally, copper’s ability to conduct heat means it is ideal for carrying hot water.
Cost: What To Expect
While you need to pick the plumbing option that works best for your home, the health of your pocketbook also matters. When it comes to your wallet, PEX offers cheaper material and labor costs.
Installation
Thanks to its rigidity, Copper takes longer to install and requires more fittings. PEX is fast to install because of its flexibility and minimal joints.
Durability: How Long Will Your Pipes Last?
PEX is naturally resistant to corrosion and scale. While copper can last for many decades, it can end up becoming corroded if it is exposed to acidic water.
Lifespan
Some of the top PEX manufacturers boast products that can last for 40 to 50 years. In ideal conditions, copper piping will last for 50 years or more.
Noise
In a quiet house, the ticking of a clock or the gentle scratching of tree branches on the wall seems to echo. Water pipes can be surprisingly noisy in this type of environment. Because PEX experiences fewer episodes of hydraulic shock, it tends to be quieter than copper.
Freezing Resistance
While PEX is resistant to freezing, copper pipes can burst like an overfilled water balloon when the water inside them freezes.
UV Exposure
PEX is the vampire of the pipe world. When placed in sunlight, PEX will quickly start to degrade. Because copper is much better at handling sunlight and outdoor conditions, it is a better choice for installations that are outside of your home.
Suitability for Niceville’s Climate
If you’re trying to find the best plumbing option for your Niceville home, PEX and copper can both work. PEX is excellent for humid, storm-prone areas. While copper is a strong choice, it can experience corrosion in humid situations.
Performance in Florida’s Humid Climate
- PEX in Niceville: PEX can withstand high levels of humidity and will perform well in Florida’s climate.
- Copper in Niceville: Copper is a viable option. However, the salt air and high humidity can be an issue.
Cost Comparison
In many cases, PEX costs about half as much as copper.
Which Is Better for Your Niceville Home?
Considering Florida’s humidity and overall climate, PEX is often a better choice for homeowners. However, copper can handle UV light better than PEX can. Because of this, it’s important to always consult with a professional plumber about your plumbing repairs.
A Word About DIY Plumbing in Florida
Despite the prevalence of DIY plumbing projects on TikTok, you do not want to risk your home’s plumbing systems by performing DIY work. If pipes are installed incorrectly, it can lead to water leaks. Even a minor leak can cause extensive water damage and mold. Over time, these factors can negatively impact the health and well-being of your loved ones. You can also become injured by the sharp tools and hazardous materials that are involved in performing the repair work.
Additionally, your insurance likely has specific requirements about who can perform work on your home. If you replace piping on your own, you may void some or all of your insurance policy or warranty.
Finally, Florida and individual municipalities have specific building codes that you are required to follow. If you don’t get your work properly permitted or don’t follow the building code, it can open you up to potential legal penalties.
Talk to Our Plumbing Professionals Today
At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we have years of experience helping Niceville homeowners get the plumbing results they need. Because of our local expertise, we understand what type of piping and materials are suitable for Florida’s climate. After conducting a thorough inspection, we will carefully determine the best course of action for your home’s plumbing repairs.
If there’s any delay, it’s YOU we pay! Our team is known for its prompt, reliable services. Learn more by giving us a call today.