Out of sight often means out of mind, so homeowners rarely think about the types of pipes that ensure water circulates smoothly through their homes. It’s a matter worth exploring when you’re considering repiping or repairing. Copper and cross-linked polyethylene, or PEX, are popular choices. Which is the best choice for your project? The professionals at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing are happy to provide the facts you need to make an informed decision.
Defining Copper and PEX Pipes
Copper pipe is a rigid metal pipe that’s been used for thousands of years in plumbing applications. PEX is a flexible plastic piping. A newer product, it’s been used in Europe since the 1970s and in the U.S. since the 1980s.
Exploring Material Costs
When pricing materials, the difference between copper and PEX piping is stark. Copper is generally at least twice the price of PEX. Copper can also be more frustrating to price. As a metal, its cost fluctuates quickly. In contrast, the cost of PEX is stable.
Delving Into Installation
Why do homeowners care about the ins and outs of installation? Some may want a product that goes in more quickly for convenience. Others may value a faster installation because fewer hours of labor equals lower installation costs. It’s also worth considering the impact installation can have on your home.
Copper piping requires more work to install, so it takes longer. It doesn’t bend. Cutting, soldering, and the proper fittings are all essential whenever a change in direction is necessary. Specialized tools, precise measurements, and meticulous craftsmanship are vital to avoid leaks. Because copper pipe installation is so involved, the work can be invasive. If the piping goes behind walls, the drywall will need to be cut and replaced, which is an additional expense.
PEX piping is like a flexible hose. It easily snakes around bends and curves. Fewer cuts and connectors are needed, which reduces the risk of leaks. No soldering is necessary, and less precision is required. Therefore, the work can be completed more rapidly without endangering the quality of the job. Plus, using PEX may lead to less disruption of your home’s structure since the flexible pipe can slide through tight spaces.
Pondering Performance Matters
Copper and PEX piping are both excellent materials, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. Which is right for your project? Talking with an experienced plumber is the best way to find out because there are many factors to consider.
Copper is a time-tested material, which means its performance strengths are widely acknowledged:
- Lifespan: Copper pipes can easily last 50 years or more if they are properly installed and maintained.
- High-temperature water: They handle extremely hot water without flinching.
- Chlorine: They aren’t bothered by chlorine.
- UV rays: Exposure to UV rays is no problem.
Copper pipes do have weaknesses:
- Freezing: Copper pipes must be protected from freezing temperatures.
- Corrosion: They are vulnerable to corrosion.
- Acidic water: Contact with acidic water can lead to failure.
- Mineral buildup: Scale and mineral buildup can narrow the pipes, triggering a loss of water pressure and other troubles.
- Chemicals: Harsh chemicals can cause damage.
When it comes to performance, PEX piping has a slightly different set of pros and cons. The positives include:
- Freezing: Issues with freezing are rare because PEX pipes naturally contract and expand.
- Sound: PEX pipes are quieter. There’s no telltale rattle as water moves through them.
- Corrosion: Corrosion is not a problem since they aren’t metal.
- Acidic water: They withstand acidic water without issue.
- Mineral buildup: They aren’t troubled by the formation of mineral deposits.
Vulnerabilities of PEX pipes include:
- Lifespan: PEX pipes are newer, so estimating a lifespan is trickier. Experts suggest planning for 25 to 40 years of service with proper installation and maintenance.
- High-temperature water: They are not appropriate for high-temperature applications.
- UV rays: They must be protected from UV rays, so they should be shielded from direct sunlight if used outdoors.
- Chemicals: They can degrade when exposed to harsh chemicals and solvents.
Discovering Maintenance Requirements
Getting decades of reliable service from copper pipes takes effort. Homeowners must be vigilant about checking for leaks and signs of corrosion. They also need to take steps to protect against freezing and prevent mineral buildup. Finally, they’ll want to be mindful of the chemicals used in and around the pipes.
PEX pipes are low maintenance. Homeowners will want to keep an eye out for leaks. Beyond that, they should avoid using harsh chemicals that might degrade the piping.
Weighing Resale Value Considerations
Copper has resale value. That can be both a pro and a con. Some point out that installing copper pipes may give you an edge with potential buyers when you choose to sell your home because copper has better name recognition and greater trust among the general public.
Copper’s resale value also causes problems. Since it’s easily sold for scrap, it’s a popular target for thieves, and the destruction they leave behind is costly to repair. As HUD User reports, many builders now opt for PEX piping where it’s suitable. It has no resale value, so it won’t attract thieves.
Investigating Environmental Impacts
For buyers interested in eco-friendly products, a case can be made for both copper and PEX piping. Ultimately, PEX piping is the greener choice.
Making copper pipe involves strip mining for materials and heavy energy use for production. In contrast, PEX pipe is crafted from a byproduct of oil or natural gas production. No extra resources are used to gather the material, and little energy is needed to make the piping. What about during use? Copper is a conductor. PEX has some insulating properties. As a result, it takes more energy and water to get the same amount of hot water when you’re using copper pipes. Is recyclability an issue? Both products are recyclable.
Deciding between copper and PEX piping isn’t easy. The best choice depends on factors like the parameters of your project, your budget, and your preferences. The experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Niceville, Florida, are ready to help you explore your options and find the right solution. Offering everything from emergency plumbing repairs to routine maintenance to house repiping, we’ll complete the job with precision and care. To learn more about our services, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today.