Copper vs Pex Pipes – Which is Better?

For decades, copper pipes have been a mainstay in plumbing systems. Copper is predictable, and many plumbing professionals prefer working with it. However, PEX has recently come into the mix. It is a type of plastic tubing made from high-density, cross-linked polyethylene. So which is better?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of both.

Advantages of PEX Pipes

Many will be surprised to know that PEX piping has been around since the ’60s and has been used in residential applications since the ’80s. However, the last 10 years have seen a much broader adoption of PEX piping.

PEX offers some advantages.

• Flexibility: Pex is much more flexible than copper pipes, which can undoubtedly make installation in tight or complex areas easier

• No Soldering: Many DIY projects end up with a call to our professional plumbers due to soldering alone. A combination of cheap flux, inadequate heat from your torch, and a lack of experience can create quite a mess when soldering copper pipes. It can also cause leaky joints.

• Freeze Resistant: This may not be a massive benefit to our East Valley customers; however, our neighbors to the north can attest to the havoc freezing temps can cause on copper pipes.

• Resistant to Scale Buildup: PEX resists scale or “limescale” buildup. Many of the homes our plumbing team visits have hard water. Hard water and copper can cause a limescale buildup in your home’s plumbing, requiring professional assistance. PEX does not have these issues.

Disadvantages of PEX

It may seem like PEX is the clear winner here – but there are some significant drawbacks to PEX:

• May Leak Chemicals Into Your Water: California banned PEX piping as there were concerns it was leeching chemicals into the water supply. Many independent and national studies on PEX indicate that PEX is safe. However, it’s cause for concern.

• Can’t Be Used Outside: PEX is susceptible to UV light and will degrade in the intense Mesa and Queen Creek sun.

• Can Be Damaged by Rodents: Rodents have been known to chew through PEX piping, leading to costly leaks

• Easily Damaged by Chemicals: If your water has a chlorine content that is too high, PEX should be avoided.

Advantages of Copper Pipes

Copper is the leading material in residential and commercial plumbing systems throughout the East Valley. The wide adoption of copper has provided decades of knowledge on how it will perform and its weaknesses – pinhole leaks, we’re talking about you. Copper plumbing offers plenty of advantages:

• Proven Durability: Copper pipes can withstand up to 1000 PSI pressure and last over 70 years.

• Rust Proof: Because copper contains no iron, it will not rust. This is a big reason why it’s so widely used in plumbing.

• Non-Toxic: Copper pipes are safe for your home water supply and the environment; no harmful chemicals or other compounds exist. On the other hand, lead, iron, steel, and even PVC pipes can release toxins linked to significant health problems. In addition, copper pipes can be recycled and don’t cause pollution at the end of their lifespan.

• Fire Resistant: A fire in your house is bad enough – but when a small fire causes a massive plumbing leak, your problems have multiplied 10-fold. Copper is fire-resistant and holds up to high heat much better than PEX.

Disadvantages of Copper Pipes

It should be evident that plumbers love copper. However, copper is not without its faults:

• • Prone to Freeze Damage: Again, not a huge problem here in the East Valley – but it’s worth noting that copper pipes are prone to bursting when exposed to freezing temperatures.
  • Corrosion: Copper does not rust; hard water can cause corrosion and scale buildup. Over time, this buildup can lead to blockages and visits from our Angry Pipe Plumbing team.
  • Cost: Copper pipes cost more than PEX. This is due to the price of the raw material itself.

• Ridgid: Copper is much more rigid than PEX. Making a 90-degree bend requires elbows. The more connection points there are, the higher the chance of failure in the plumbing system.

Which Should You Choose?

Angry Pipe Plumbing Solutions is well-versed in the pros and cons of PEX and Copper. Call us to discuss your plumbing project, and we will help you decide which application is right for you and your home.

We hope this information is helpful. At Angry Pipe Plumbing Solutions in Queen Creek, Arizona, we understand the importance of establishing a trustworthy relationship with a certified, licensed plumber. That’s why we offer convenient options for scheduling appointments. Feel free to reach out to us at 480-526-5030.

Our commitment to detail and exceptional service has made Angry Pipe Plumbing Solutions leaders in advanced plumbing repairs and installations. We welcome customers from Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, and San Tan Valley, Arizona. We look forward to seeing you soon!