If you’re into DIY or plumbing or are in anyway involved in the industry, you’ve probably heard about PEX plumbing. Apache Junction homeowners or industry experts interested in using this new material; read on for some basic information.
What is PEX?
PEX plumbing, also known as cross-linked polyethylene, is a water supply piping system with several advantages over metal pipe plumbing, like copper, iron, and lead, and rigid plastic piping, like PVC, CPVC, and ABS. It is made from cross-linked high-density polyethylene polymer, which is melted and continuously extruded into a tube. This type of plumbing has been around since 1970 in Europe and was introduced to the United States in the 1980s.
Its use throughout the country has been increasing ever since, as it is often used to replace copper pipe in many applications, especially in radiant heating systems that are installed under floors or pathways. PEX is flexible, resistant to scale and chlorine, and doesn’t corrode or develop pinholes. It’s also faster to install than rigid plastic or glass and has fewer fittings and connections. Accordingly, interest in PEX tools for hot and cold-water plumbing has been steadily increasing.
Advantages
There are many advantages to using PEX. One of the most attractive features of PEX is definitely its price point, which is much lower due to the nature of the material. PEX is shipped and stored on spools, which means it doesn’t have to be cut like plastic or metal piping. This lowers shipping and handling costs due to decreased weight and better storage options. Plumbing installations also require few fittings than other pipe types. PEX’s flexibility means it can turn 90-degree corners without elbow fittings, and being stored on spools means it can be installed in long runs.
Connection Methods
The standard method for connecting PEX pipe to PEX fittings is by using a copper crimp ring and a PEX crimping tool. Other methods are used however, including expansion fitting, the SSC method, compression, and “push-fit,” as well as other proprietary methods. PEX fittings are generally made of brass, other copper, bronze, and engineered plastic fittings are available. Regardless of what fittings you choose, to work with PEX you’ll want to get your hands on a pipe cutter, a crimping tool, and a de-crimping tool.
