Plumbing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every house has different needs, and homeowners often find themselves weighing their options, especially when the time comes to repipe. One of the most common dilemmas people face is choosing between PEX and copper for plumbing. Each piping material has its pros and cons, and understanding these can make a huge difference in the longevity and performance of your plumbing system.
If you’re looking to repipe your home and don’t know whether to choose copper or PEX for plumbing, this blog will help you decide by breaking down the differences, benefits, and challenges of both materials.
PEX vs. Copper: What Are They?
Before we can get into the specifics of choosing copper or PEX for plumbing, it’s important to understand what these two materials entail. Let’s review the basics of PEX and copper piping.
What Is PEX?
PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is a flexible plastic tubing that has become extremely popular in modern plumbing projects. It’s known for its durability, flexibility, and ease of installation. PEX pipes can be bent around corners and threaded through walls without needing many fittings or joints, which simplifies installation.
What Is Copper?
Copper is one of the oldest and most trusted plumbing materials. Copper pipes are rigid, durable, and can last for decades. However, copper piping requires more effort and specialized tools to install because the pipes must be soldered together, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Advantages of Copper Pipes in Akron, OH
Copper has been used in plumbing systems for decades, and for good reasons. Here’s why many homeowners still prefer copper piping:
Durability
A copper pipe is incredibly durable. These pipes can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for hot water lines. Copper water pipes are known to last 50 years or more with proper installation, making copper’s life expectancy impressive.
Resistant to Bacteria
Copper piping is naturally resistant to bacteria and mold, which is a huge benefit when you’re dealing with drinking water. For homeowners concerned about water quality, copper is often seen as a safe and reliable option.
A Long History of Use
Copper piping has been trusted for many years. Its long-standing track record gives homeowners peace of mind. Plus, installing copper water pipes doesn’t require as much change in approach compared to newer materials like PEX.
However, copper does come with some downsides. Labor costs for installing copper pipes can be higher, and the material is generally more expensive than PEX piping. You also need specialized tools, which adds to the cost and time required for installation.
Advantages of PEX Pipes in Akron, OH
Now, let’s take a look at PEX. This modern plumbing material has rapidly gained popularity due to its ease of use and cost-effectiveness. Here’s why some homeowners are leaning toward PEX for their repiping needs:
Flexibility and Fewer Connections
One of the biggest advantages of PEX pipes is their flexibility. PEX can bend around corners, making it ideal for tight spaces like under floors or behind finished walls. This flexibility means PEX requires fewer fittings and fewer connections, which can cut down on the time and cost of installation.
Lower Cost and Easier Installation
PEX is generally cheaper than copper. Both the material itself and the installation labor costs are lower, especially since PEX piping is easier to work with. You don’t need to solder joints like you would with rigid copper pipes, which can be labor-intensive. Instead, crimp fittings are used to connect PEX pipes, speeding up the process.
Resistance to Scale and Corrosion
Over time, mineral buildup can become a problem in copper pipes, especially in areas with hard water. PEX, being a plastic material, doesn’t face this issue. PEX and copper pipes handle water chemistry differently, and PEX is more resistant to corrosion.
Better in Freezing Conditions
Although copper has been trusted in outdoor plumbing, PEX tubing performs well in freezing conditions because of its flexibility. PEX can expand slightly when water freezes, which means it’s less likely to burst compared to rigid copper pipes.
On the downside, PEX can’t be used outdoors (it’s vulnerable to UV light) and may not withstand extremely hot water, unlike its copper counterpart.
What’s Better for Repiping in Akron, OH: Copper or PEX?
Now that we’ve covered the pros and cons of using copper or PEX for plumbing, let’s take a look at which option might be better for your particular situation.
For Older Homes
If you live in an older home with old pipes, you might be wondering about the merits of choosing PEX vs. copper. Ultimately, PEX pipe could be the better option. It’s flexible, making it easier to snake through finished walls without a lot of destruction. Plus, its ability to resist freezing makes it a solid choice in cold climates. If you’re updating your entire plumbing system and want to minimize the need for future repairs, PEX can often be more cost-effective in terms of both materials and labor.
For New Construction
In new construction, the choice between PEX vs. copper can depend on your budget and the climate. If you’re looking for a long-term solution and don’t mind paying more upfront, copper water pipes could be a great investment. However, if you’re looking for a quicker, less expensive installation, PEX is easier to work with and offers great performance at a lower cost.
For High Temperatures or Outdoor Use
If your plumbing projects involve extremely hot water or outdoor plumbing, copper is a better option. PEX isn’t UV-resistant, so it shouldn’t be used outdoors. Copper, on the other hand, can handle high temperatures and outdoor elements with ease.
Copper and PEX Pipes: The Bottom Line
All in all, choosing copper vs. PEX in house repiping comes down to your home’s unique requirements. No matter which material you choose, it’s important to work with a professional plumber who has experience in both PEX and copper plumbing systems. Proper installation is key to avoiding future issues, so if you’re looking for a plumbing expert that you can trust in Akon, OH, or one of the nearby areas, reach out to Apollo for assistance.
Call Apollo for Your Repiping Project in Akron, OH
Whether you’re debating PEX vs. copper for your home or need help with a bathroom plumbing repair, getting professional advice is key. Apollo’s expert plumbers in Akron, OH, are here to help you make the right choice based on your home’s needs.
Do you need help deciding between copper or PEX for plumbing? Don’t worry; our team is just a call away. If you’re ready to repipe your home or tackle other plumbing projects, contact Apollo today to schedule your service! We’re here to help you find the right solution for your plumbing system.
