Quick Takeaways
- PEX’s flexibility makes it a durable, affordable option that’s used in close to 70% of all new homes.
- PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C have different qualities that make each ideal for different applications.
- Depending on the grade of PEX chosen and the quality of installation, PEX pipes can be expected to last for 50 years or more.
- If you’ve noticed changes in water pressure, water taste, or water smell at your home, there may be a problem with your piping.
What Is PEX Piping?
Whether PEX is new to you or you’ve lived in a house with PEX piping for years, you might be unsure about the specifics of this material. PEX piping is used in 60% to 70% of new-construction homes.
However, it has been used in homes dating back to the 1980s. PEX pipes are made from a plastic material called cross-linked polyethylene that undergoes a special process that enhances its durability and flexibility. This makes PEX ideal for both hot and cold water lines.
Average Lifespan of PEX Piping
PEX pipes can last up to 50 years. Some homeowners might even see their PEX pipes last far beyond that with the right conditions. However, there are several factors that ultimately influence PEX lifespan.
Factors That Affect How Long PEX Lasts
If you’ve inherited PEX piping after purchasing a home, your piping’s longevity isn’t necessarily something that’s all in your hands.
The choices made by the person who built your home may ultimately impact how many years you can get from your PEX. There are also environmental factors that vary by location and property that influence PEX lifespan.
Type of PEX (PEX-A, PEX-B, PEX-C)
While all PEX is considered durable and efficient, not all PEX is made equally. Like most products you can select for your home’s utilities, PEX comes in several different grades of quality.
Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect for lifespan by PEX type:
- PEX-A: Generally considered the most durable and desirable type of PEX piping because of its higher degree of cross-linking, PEX-A can last 60 years or more in most cases.
- PEX-B: While PEX-B can be expected to last for 50 years or more, this option has extra rigidity that can make it more susceptible to cracking. Homeowners chose this option because it allows for faster, easier installation that is often cheaper because there’s no need to use expansion tools while joining pieces.
- PEX-C: Capable of performing wonderfully for 40 years or more, PEX-C is a less expensive option that is stiffer than other PEX types. It is ideal for shorter stretches of piping.
Installation Quality
It’s important to hire a professional with an understanding of how to properly install PEX piping. Poor installation can dramatically reduce PEX lifespan by causing unstable water pressure or leaking. Additionally, an experienced plumber will understand that certain PEX types are better for certain projects.
Water Quality and Temperature
Unfortunately, mineral buildup and corrosive properties in water can prematurely age PEX piping. If your home has hard water, having a water softener installed may help to preserve PEX piping.
Environmental Conditions (UV Exposure, Pressure, Chemicals)
Air, soil, and water conditions at your home all ultimately contribute to PEX’s potential lifespan. Extreme hot or cold temperatures can warp or wear down PEX over time. Additionally, exposure to UV rays and leaching chemicals can also break down and degrade PEX over time.
How PEX Compares to Other Pipe Materials
PEX is increasingly being used in new home construction due to its affordability and performance. Here’s how it stacks up to other residential piping options.
PEX vs. Copper
PEX is a welcomed alternative to metal pipes for a wide range of reasons. First, PEX is often just a fraction of the cost of copper piping. This applies to both the price for materials and lower labor costs due to easier installation.
Homeowners who choose PEX over copper also enjoy long-term savings. PEX’s superior thermal insulation increases energy efficiency and lowers energy bills.
Finally, one pleasant and unexpected benefit for homeowners who switch from copper to PEX is that PEX pipes are much quieter because there is no “clanging” sound as water flows through them. However, copper pipes do outlast PEX pipes by as much as 10 to 20 years.
PEX vs. PVC/CPVC
One of the reasons why homeowners are upgrading to PEX from PVC/CPVC more and more is greater longevity. While less expensive to install than PEX, PVC pipes have a lifespan of just 20 to 40 years. Additionally, PVC piping can be more prone to cracking and breaking in extreme temperatures or freeze-thaw cycles.
Signs Your PEX Piping May Need Replacement
While PEX can last decade after decade, there may come a time when your PEX pipes need to be replaced.
Here are some telltale signs it’s time to consider home repiping:
- Your home’s faucets are experiencing reduced or low water pressure.
- You’re noticing rusty or discolored water coming from your taps that indicates that contaminants are getting through holes or cracks in your piping.
- Your tap water has developed an unusual or unpleasant taste. This is often a sign that broken or compromised piping is allowing bacterial growth to proliferate.
Maintenance Tips to Extend PEX Lifespan
There are several things homeowners can do to give their PEX pipes the best chance of lasting 50 years or more.
Talk to your local plumber about the following:
- Adding insulation to protect piping from cold snaps.
- Adding a water-softening system to eliminate hard water.
- Avoiding using harsh drain cleaners and chemicals to clear out your home’s drains.
- Scheduling periodic flushing to eliminate harmful buildup that can strain PEX piping.
- Protecting PEX from any exposure to direct sunlight.
FAQ
Can mice chew through PEX piping?
Yes, rodent damage is one of the few downsides of PEX piping compared to metal pipes. If you’re noticing issues like a strange taste in your water, an odor coming from your faucets, or any type of plumbing failure, there’s a chance that a portion of your PEX has been destroyed by rodents. Call a plumber right away to get the compromised potion of piping repaired.
Is PEX better for cold or hot climates?
Both! PEX’s flexibility makes it a good choice for cold conditions compared to more rigid options like copper or PVC.
This flexibility makes it possible for PEX to expand and contract with changing temperatures without cracking. PEX can also handle temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use PEX outdoors?
While PEX is a top choice for indoor plumbing and drinking water, it is not approved for outdoor use. This is because UV rays from direct sunlight can cause PEX to degrade quickly. Generally, copper and PVC are used outdoors.
Schedule a Professional PEX Inspection or Upgrade Today
Your home’s piping should be safe and durable. That’s why getting your plumbing system inspected if you have concerns about the age or condition of your pipes is crucial.
Whether you have existing PEX pipes that may need to be upgraded or you’d like to make the shift from old metal pipes to innovative PEX with a complete home repiping, quality installation matters.
Homeowners in Fort Myers, Florida choose Benjamin Franklin Plumbing for all of their inspections and upgrades. Book a visit to have your home’s pipes looked at by professional, punctual plumbers today!