Are you planning a renovation project or a new home? There are plenty of important choices to make. One of those is which type of plumbing material to use. Most people pick either copper or PEX, which is cross-linked polyethylene. Each material has clear strengths and weaknesses when you compare them. The right choice for each person depends on several factors. Since each one has advantages and disadvantages, there is no universal suggestion for which is better in all applications. In this guide, you will learn about the two types of piping and which one is better for different purposes.
PEX Piping
Cross-linked polyethylene is both sturdy and flexible. Its flexibility makes it easy to install in tight corners and other challenging areas. There is no need for a large number of fittings and joints to install it in a house with a lot of corners. It is resistant to freezing, scaling, and corrosion. PEX is affordable in terms of material and labor costs. However, it is not ideal for outdoor use or areas with high sun exposure. This is because UV rays can degrade it and cause brittleness over time. It is also difficult to recycle.
Copper Piping
Copper is a metal that occurs naturally. It is resistant to bacteria, heat, and UV rays. It has been used for plumbing applications for more than a century. Copper can be used for outdoor and indoor plumbing. When it needs to be replaced, it is also recyclable. However, it is more difficult to install and costs more. Installation requires more fittings and soldering. Also, copper may corrode under certain conditions.
Considerations for Choosing Plumbing Pipes
The type of material you select will depend on your top priorities. When it comes to those priorities, there are pros and cons for each material. These are some considerations that will help you understand both materials and decide which one is right for you.
Durability
Each one is durable in different ways. PEX can last 40 to 50 years, and copper may last 50 years or more. However, PEX is more likely to degrade outdoors, which limits its usefulness to indoor applications. Copper can last outdoors and withstand high temperatures. Although corrosion is not a common problem, copper can corrode under abnormal water conditions. In freezing temperatures, PEX is more durable. Its flexibility allows it to expand and contract, which reduces the risk of pipes bursting. Copper pipes can burst in freezing temperatures. However, this is not a top concern in Clearwater and other warm climates.
Cost
If budget is your top concern, PEX is the more affordable option. The cost of PEX material is less than copper. Since PEX is easier to install, labor costs are also lower. Copper prices rise and fall depending on several factors. When professionals install it, they must use special tools and soldering torches.
Environment
When you think about environmental factors, it is important to consider production processes and recyclability. Copper must be mined and refined. The mining process involves disrupting habitats and generating waste minerals. Producing copper is a process that involves a high level of carbon emissions. This is because production demands a lot of energy. However, it can last for 50 years or longer when you use it for plumbing pipes. The process to produce PEX requires less energy, which means reduced carbon emissions. Although that process is efficient, PEX’s composition includes fossil fuels.
What happens when your plumbing pipes wear out and need to be replaced? The good news is that you can recycle copper. Many pipes that are used today come from recycled copper. When it is recycled, it is still strong. Copper can even be recycled multiple times without losing its strength and other properties. PEX is not typically recyclable. It often goes to landfills and becomes toxic plastic waste. If you are concerned about the environment, consider the different types of impact each product has and its average lifespan.
Water Safety
One natural advantage of copper is its antimicrobial ability. It prevents the growth of bacteria, making it a good choice for drinking water lines. Also, copper is a natural material that is free of chemicals. PEX is a type of plastic, and leaching can occasionally happen. Leaching is more of a risk at higher temperatures. Although PEX has been tested and meets health standards, some homeowners who live in the heat of Florida prefer copper for peace of mind about water purity.
Which Type Is Right for You?
Start by prioritizing your needs. Which of the previous considerations is most important to you? For example, if you have a limited budget, PEX may be better. If longevity is your top priority, copper may be better. Perhaps you have multiple priorities. What do you do if both budget and water purity are equally important? While PEX is more affordable, copper has natural antimicrobial properties. A plumbing professional can discuss your options with you and may be able to provide solutions that fit your needs.
Learn More About Copper and PEX Pipes in Clearwater
Installing new pipes is a big investment that requires some research and careful consideration. The Benjamin Franklin Plumbing team can answer your questions about PEX or copper piping, installation, and much more. We have helped many homeowners in the area find the right type of piping for their specific needs. Our company enjoys seeing homeowners make their households safer and more efficient with the right plumbing solutions. Whether you choose copper or PEX, be sure to have a professional install your plumbing. Professional installation ensures that your system complies with important codes, and it gives you the peace of mind that everything is done correctly. Please reach out to us to learn more about PEX and copper piping solutions in Clearwater, Florida.