Pex vs. Copper Piping: Which Should You Install?

In this comparison article, the qualified plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing look into the pros and cons of both copper and PEX plumbing pipes. This article will help you make an informed decision if you’re considering undertaking plumbing upgrades in your home or commercial property. If you’re looking for a dependable plumbing repair service that offers quality pipe repair services, get in touch with Mr. Rooter Plumbing.

Copper Pipes

If you’re observant, you’ve probably seen reddish-brown pipes running through homes. Those are copper pipes made almost entirely from copper material. This type of piping has gained popularity among property owners due to its excellent strength and durability.

Pros

• Durability: Copper piping can last for more than five decades if you keep up with proper maintenance. This is one of the reasons this type of material is preferred for plumbing applications in homes and commercial properties.
• Corrosion resistance: Copper piping is immune to corrosion as it is able to resist attack by oxygen. If your pipes are corroded and you’re looking for a piping material that can withstand corrosion, copper piping can solve this problem. Another preventive measure you can take to prevent pipe corrosion is to install a water softener. If you have hard water in your home, reach out to a professional plumbing service for water softener installation.
• Lightweight: Even though it’s not as lightweight as PEX piping, copper piping is relatively easier to work with. This makes it a preferred choice for plumbing repairs such as repiping and pipe replacement.

Cons

There are two notable downsides to copper piping. Firstly, it costs more than PEX and CPVC piping. PEX pipes are between 20% and 80% cheaper than copper pipes. Secondly. Copper pipes cannot bend compared to PEX pipes. This can make copper piping trickier to install in tight spaces or navigate around obstacles.

PEX Pipes

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes have recently gained favor among homeowners for their flexibility and cost-effectiveness. They resemble hoses and can be easily bent and maneuvered around corners.

Pros

• Cost-effective: Perhaps the reason many property owners prefer PEX piping to copper piping is the affordable price of the material. PEX piping costs about $0.50 to $2 per linear square foot, while copper piping costs an average of $2 to $4 per square foot.
• Flexibility: PEX piping is more flexible compared to copper piping, which is why it is easy to install. If you’re repiping your home and looking to cut down on costs, consider using PEX piping. However, we recommend consulting with a professional plumbing repair service for professional guidance.
• Durable: Just like copper piping, PEX piping is resistant to corrosion and can last up to 50 years.

Cons

The only downside to PEX piping is that it is not recommended for high-pressure or gas lines.

Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for All of Your Plumbing Repair Needs

For professional pipe repair and repiping, look no further than Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Our qualified and experienced plumbers have the skills to perform a comprehensive plumbing inspection and offer professional recommendations. Whether you need main water line repair, sewer line repair, or water pipe replacement, do not hesitate to contact the pros at Mr. Rooter Plumbing.