PEX, CPVC or Copper Pipe: Which is Best?
In ancient times, plumbing pipes were made of toxic lead (hence the name “plumber,’ which comes from the Latin word for lead.)
In modern times, there are a number of different — and much safer — materials which can be used to replace your broken or leaky pipes.
Our professional plumbers in Lexington and Louisville stay up-to-date on the latest new materials. This is why we recommend PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing in many cases, over copper and CPVC. There are several advantages to PEX for your residential plumbing.
At one-third the cost of copper for the tubing itself, PEX offers homeowners savings in material costs. It’s also faster to install, which can save labor cost. For a remodeling job, where our plumbing technicians are replacing existing pipes, PEX can be “snaked” along the existing pipe behind the walls. This means we have to make, and repair, fewer holes in your walls.
PEX doesn’t corrode like copper, even in acidic water conditions. It doesn’t require glue like CPVC, so installation doesn’t require special ventilation. Because it’s flexible, it’s less likely than CPVC to burst due to freezing weather. It also requires fewer 90-degree fittings than copper or CPVC, because the tubing itself will bend around corners.
It has a higher R-value (the measure of a material’s insulating ability) than either copper or CPVC, which means water will lose less heat as it runs from your water heater to your plumbing fixtures. PEX tubing dampens water noise in your pipes, creating a quieter home environment. As you can see, there are a lot of advantages to using PEX in your home’s plumbing system. With a 25 year warranty, it’s a very durable, safe and smart choice.
If you need a Louisville or Lexington plumbing company for your planned remodeling project, or to replace broken or leaking pipes in your home, call Dauenhauer at any hour. We’ll be happy to provide a fast, accurate quote or a free second opinion.
