Advantages of PEX vs copper materials for plumbing pipes and tubes
Plumbing is an essential part in each and every building. This is an age old technique used to supply water. There is no difference in the method of supplying water through plumbing. However, the materials used for the same have changed from then to now. Copper is an age old material which has been used from the beginning. PEX is a new material which has entered the world of plumbing. Now, the discussion, or better said, an argument has cropped up as to which is a better material to plumbing. The decision of PEX vs copper can only be decided after weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both these materials.
- Cost of manufacture – When we say PEX vs copper with respect to the cost of manufacturing, it is PEX that wins. The cost that is involved in making copper pipes is very high as the procedures involved in making the metal is very lengthy. However, with the use of technology, the PEX pipes are easy and economical to manufacture. This makes the PEX vs copper pipes available at a very low price when compared to copper. It suits the budgets of everyone.
- Resistance to chemicals – When contaminated water flows through the PEX and copper pipes, the latter is more affected by it. Copper pipes rust and oxidize. This rust mixed and oxidized water is very harmful when consumed as drinking water. However, this does not happen with the plastic pipes. Thus the argument of PEX vs copper is won by PEX again.
- Durability – The materials and method which are used in the making of the pipes make sure that the pipe is durable and has longevity. They are resistant towards harsh weather conditions. On the other hand, the copper pipes cannot take extreme weather conditions. When exposed to such extreme conditions, copper pipes tend to shrink in size. For this purpose, longer pipes are installed with the foresight of the shrinkage. Thus, in PEX vs copper we can say that non-oxygen-barrier tubing is better.
- Insulation – This is a feature that is provided by the insulated PEX tubing. Because of which it is used in cold countries. However, this is not possible with the copper pipes and thus leads to the freezing of water. To prevent freezing, these PEX pipes are a must. Thus one can say that PEX is a better material.
Source: http://www.ppfahome.org/Attach/PPFA_PEX_copper_final.pdf
