PEX Pipe vs. Copper Pipe | Plumbing Arlington

While there have been many comparisons, and an even larger number of opinions on the subject of PEX pipe vs. copper pipe, the fact is which piping will be right for your home will depend upon the homes individual characteristics, its water chemistry, and your budget. In the following we compare the advantages and disadvantages of each. This will assist you in making an informed decision of the appropriate plumbing in Arlington that is right for your home.

Advantages of Copper Pipe

• Copper is bacteriostatic, meaning that copper inhibits the growth or reproduction of bacteria.
• Copper pipes are resistant to corrosion under normal conditions and won’t rust or degrade in the elements or in UV light and can be used outdoors.
• It is fully recyclable.
• Provides some flexibility, facilitating its installation.
• Safer in natural disasters. Not as likely to break in earthquakes as PVC.
• It does not release toxic gases in a fire.
• Resistant to freezing when installed below the frost line.
• Has a long lifespan, 50 to 75 years under normal conditions.

Disadvantages of Copper

• Copper can corrode due to an acidic pH in water.
• More costly than plastic pipes.
• May have a metallic taste when corrosion occurs.
• It can freeze and break if above the frost line.

Advantages of PEX Pipe

• PEX pipe (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing is budget friendly and easily installed.
• Exceptionally easy to install. This is an advantage when installing plumbing in Arlington due to the tight spaces pipe must go through.
• Won’t corrode or rust.
• Easily bends, up to 90 degrees, without the need for fittings, reducing the likelihood of leaks and enabling a faster installation.
• Its flexibility allows for slight expansion and contraction. Water can still freeze within PEX, but the slight expansion makes it less likely to burst than other piping.
• Can be used for hot and cold water.
• Can be installed in long pipe runs without fittings.
• Can be used with PVC or copper pipe.
• Resistant to the chemicals chlorine and chloramine added to water during treatment.
• Easy to drain an affected supply line of PEX as you can shut off each segment.
• A cost effective solution for re-piping of plumbing in Arlington.

Disadvantages of PEX

• It cannot be used outdoors.
• Non-recyclable.
• May allow water contamination to occur by contact with contaminates.
• The tool required for crimping is excessively costly.
• Typically requires bracing and support to prevent pipe movement.
• PEX cannot be directly connected to a water heater. It can be connected to PVC or copper pipe which is connected to the appliance.

The use of licensed and qualified plumbers in Arlington, TX will ensure the proper installation of piping, and will provide a longer lasting product. When re-piping is required for your home, our experienced plumbers in Arlington, TX can assist you in the decision of PEX pipe vs. copper pipe For a professional grade installation of plumbing in Arlington contact the plumbers in Arlington, TX, known nationwide for their plumbing expertise. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing serves Fort Worth, Arlington and the surrounding areas. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.