When it is time to repipe your home, there are several pipe materials available. The best one for your home’s plumbing in Arlington depends on several factors, including the budget, water chemistry, the characteristics of the home and others.
Two popular options are copper and PEX pipe. A comparison of the two can assist you in the decision of which pipe material is right for your home’s plumbing in Arlington.
Copper vs. PEX
Advantages of Copper
- Copper is bacteriostatic, which means in inhibits the growth of bacteria.
- Under normal conditions, copper pipe resists corrosion, and will not degrade in an outdoor environment. It is not affected by UV light.
- Copper is a recyclable material.
- Copper offers slight flexibility.
- Copper endures natural disasters better than other pipe materials, such as PVC without breakage
- Resistant to freezing below the frost line.
- Under normal conditions, copper has an expected lifespan of 50 to 75 years.
Advantages of PEX Pipe
- PEX resists the buildup of minerals due to hard water.
- Uses a specialized crimping tool for attaching fittings. Neither solder nor glue is required.
- PEX tolerates up to 90 degree turns without the need for fittings.
- Reduces heat transfer, thereby saving energy and facilitating the delivery of hot water with less cooling in long pipe runs.
- The PEX water system provides a shutoff valve for each segment. The value of this feature is really realized when repair is required.
- PEX’s flexibility provides slight expansion and contraction. Water can still freeze inside PEX, but PEX is less likely to burst than other pipe materials PEX has an additional advantage other pipe materials do not. In addition, use foam tube insulation to prevent freezing in vulnerable locations.
- PEX can be used with PVC or copper pipe with an adapter.
- PEX is NSF International certified for water purity.
- PEX provides a cost effective solution for repiping of your home’s plumbing in Arlington.
Disadvantages
Copper
- Copper can corrode in a water environment of acidic pH.
- Copper has a higher cost than other pipe materials.
- Copper requires insulation when installed above the frost line to prevent freezing.
- While copper has slight flexibility, it is not as flexible as PEX.
- Copper is often a target for theft in homes.
PEX
- PEX is not recyclable.
- PEX cannot be used outdoors. It is subject to freezing in an outdoor environment. Furthermore, the sun’s UV rays can result in deterioration and a premature failure. PEX is only applicable for indoor installation.
- PEX requires an 18-inch copper or PVC pipe in order to be connected to a water heater.
Hiring a plumber with expertise assures the repiping of your home meets, or exceeds the industry standards. When you contact a Benjamin Franklin licensed plumber in Arlington you are assured of receiving a first quality installation of your home’s plumbing in Arlington, ensuring the longest possible lifespan and reliability you can trust. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing serves Arlington, Fort Worth, and the surrounding areas. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.