PEX versus Copper Pipes: What’s the Difference?

Copper piping has been around for decades and is the go-to material for water supply pipes and drains. However, the cost of copper has increased over the years, making it more expensive than plastic (PEX) pipes. So what's the difference between PEX and copper? Why would you choose one over the other? Read on to find out:

Copper is a traditional material for water supply pipes and drains.

Copper is a traditional material for water supply pipes and drains. Copper has been used to produce plumbing pipes since the Roman period, around 2,000 years ago. It's been used in homes all over the world to distribute drinking water from faucets and sinks throughout the house.

Because copper pipes were expensive, using them was only possible for high-status individuals such as kings, knights and noblemen. However, today copper plumbing is more affordable than it was in previous centuries thanks to technological advancements that have made production more efficient.

Copper is more expensive than PEX.

Another important difference between PEX and copper pipes is their price. Copper is more expensive than PEX. The cost of copper vs PEX depends on the length of pipe you need to install, but generally speaking, copper is more expensive per foot than PEX.

If you need to replace your entire plumbing system with new pipes and fixtures or if you're planning on renovating a home by installing new cabinets, appliances or countertops that require a lot of piping work done behind them, then it would be better for you to choose copper instead of PEX because its higher pricing will be offset by increased labor costs (for example: drilling holes in walls).

PEX piping is more flexible than copper, so making a repair is easier.

If you're considering upgrading from copper to PEX, it's important to know that PEX is more flexible than copper. This means that you can easily fix a leaky joint by pulling on the pipe or making another repair without having to shut off the water supply. In addition, PEX is easier to install because there are no soldering joints involved; instead, a crimp fitting attaches directly onto the tubing so you don't have to worry about soldering skills or special tools for installation.

PEX piping has a longer lifespan than copper piping.

PEX piping is more resistant to corrosion and freezing than copper piping, which is a big plus for anyone living in a climate where the pipes may freeze during the winter. While copper piping can last for 50 years with regular maintenance, PEX piping lasts even longer and requires less time-intensive upkeep.

PEX is more prone to damage from UV radiation, so it is not suitable for outdoor use.

Although PEX is less likely to be damaged by UV radiation than copper pipes, it's still vulnerable. Because of this, PEX is not suitable for outdoor use.

There are pros and cons of each type of pipe, but PEX may make sense if you're just starting out or rehabbing an existing house.

If you're building a new home, PEX may be the right choice because it's less expensive and easier to install. It's also more environmentally friendly than copper, in that it doesn't leach lead or other harmful chemicals into your water.

However, if you're renovating an old house with existing plumbing or replacing just one or two fixtures, copper will probably work better for you. Copper is less prone to damage from UV radiation than PEX pipes and can be easily repaired if problems crop up down the road (although this isn't something that most homeowners should try themselves—call a plumber instead).

If you're building a new house, it makes sense to use PEX pipe. You'll save money and get a better product. And if you already have copper pipes and want to replace them with PEX, you can do so by contacting A R Engh for all your plumbing needs.