PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is regarded as one of the biggest revolutions in the plumbing industry. Its unique properties continuously challenges traditional plumbing materials like copper in terms of cost, ease of installation, and flexibility.
PEX tubes are commonly manufactured by extrusion resulting in flexible pipes which can be shipped and stored in spools effectively lowering shipping and handling costs than that for copper pipes.
Since this material is flexible, it can turn at corners without the need for elbow fittings. Moreover, since they come in spools when purchased, they can be installed at extended lengths even without coupling fittings.
Another advantage of this material is that it does not require soldering to attach tube fittings together making it safer and simpler to install that its rigid counterparts.
It also resists the scale build-up common with copper pipe and does not pit or corrode when exposed to acidic water. In addition, it also does not transfer heat as readily as copper, and so conserves energy.
Finally, water flows more quietly through PEX tube and the characteristic “water hammer” noise of copper pipe systems is virtually eliminated.
