Leaky Pipes / 10.01.2015

Repiping: Copper Vs. PEX

Repiping is a solution for chronic water leaks and other plumbing issues in homes. If you’re preparing for a repiping project, there are two important options you are probably already considering: PEX or copper. Here, you’ll find a review of the pros and cons of copper repiping versus PEX repiping.

Copper Repiping

You could say that copper repiping is a classic—it has been a plumbing standard for years because its natural attributes make it highly effective in all kinds of environments. If you’re skilled in soldering and fitting, you might be able to perform some copper repiping on your own; but it’s nearly a guarantee that a plumbing professional can do a better job, faster!

Pros of copper piping:Biostatic atmosphere makes it difficult for bacterial growthImpervious to damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV)Resists corrosionCons of copper piping:Extreme pH levels in water may corrode pipesExtreme cold weather conditions can freeze pipesPremium pricing

PEX Repiping

Also known as crosslinked polyethylene, PEX came to market in the ‘80s, and is now one of the most common choices for repiping and plumbing projects. Its continued popularity is owed to cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and some perk that copper repiping cannot take advantage of. PEX is color-coded (red, blue, or white) based on water temperature.

Pros of PEX piping:Resists freezing temperatures and pipe burstingRetains heat better than copper pipingResists scaling and chlorine corrosionCons of PEX piping:Not suitable for outdoor plumbingCannot be recycledShorter lifespan than copper piping

What Do I Choose: Copper or PEX?

Copper and PEX are each ideal for many different situations. Although there’s plenty of information to find on the internet, making the right choice between copper or PEX requires years of experience in plumbing, repiping, and environmental conditions. If you have a repiping project in Southern California, our repiping specialists in Los Angeles may help you identify the pros and cons of copper and PEX piping in your unique situation. Call Repiping Professionals today!

Repiping is a solution for chronic water leaks and other plumbing issues in homes. If you’re preparing for a repiping project, there are two important options you are probably already considering: PEX or copper. Here, you’ll find a review of the pros and cons of copper repiping versus PEX repiping.

Copper Repiping

You could say that copper repiping is a classic—it has been a plumbing standard for years because its natural attributes make it highly effective in all kinds of environments. If you’re skilled in soldering and fitting, you might be able to perform some copper repiping on your own; but it’s nearly a guarantee that a plumbing professional can do a better job, faster!

Pros of copper piping:Biostatic atmosphere makes it difficult for bacterial growthImpervious to damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV)Resists corrosionCons of copper piping:Extreme pH levels in water may corrode pipesExtreme cold weather conditions can freeze pipesPremium pricing

PEX Repiping

Also known as crosslinked polyethylene, PEX came to market in the ‘80s, and is now one of the most common choices for repiping and plumbing projects. Its continued popularity is owed to cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and some perk that copper repiping cannot take advantage of. PEX is color-coded (red, blue, or white) based on water temperature.

Pros of PEX piping:Resists freezing temperatures and pipe burstingRetains heat better than copper pipingResists scaling and chlorine corrosionCons of PEX piping:Not suitable for outdoor plumbingCannot be recycledShorter lifespan than copper piping

What Do I Choose: Copper or PEX?

Copper and PEX are each ideal for many different situations. Although there’s plenty of information to find on the internet, making the right choice between copper or PEX requires years of experience in plumbing, repiping, and environmental conditions. If you have a repiping project in Southern California, our repiping specialists in Los Angeles may help you identify the pros and cons of copper and PEX piping in your unique situation. Call Repiping Professionals today!

Share This Story

Do you find this topic interesting? Share it to your social media platforms by selecting one of the options below.

Get a Free Estimate

With more than 70 years of experience, Repiping Professionals treats your home like it’s our own. With the only lifetime guarantee in the business you can contact us knowing your satisfaction is our highest priority.

Select An Option Below to Get Started
uploadcrossmenu