Pex Vs. Copper Piping: Which Should You Install? (2024)

While both pex and copper piping are popular materials for plumbing, there are several key differences between the two that homeowners and contractors should consider before making a decision.

Pex Piping

Pex piping is different for a few reasons.. Namely, it’s an incredibly flexible plastic material that can bend and curve around corners and obstacles, making it easier to install in tight spaces. That flexibility also means pex requires fewer fittings, which can save time and money during installation.

Pex is also highly resistant to corrosion and scale buildup, which are common issues with copper pipes. However, the material is not suitable for outdoor use as it can be damaged by exposure to UV rays.

Copper Piping

One of the most significant differences between copper and pex stems from durability and longevity. Copper pipes have been used in plumbing for decades and are known for their ability to withstand high temperatures and pressure. Copper is also highly resistant to damage from UV rays and can be used outdoors. However, copper piping is more expensive than pex and requires specialized tools for installation.

Copper piping is also prone to corrosion and scale buildup over time, which can lead to reduced water pressure and eventual leaks. Despite these potential issues, many homeowners and contractors still prefer using copper piping for its long-term reliability and proven track record in plumbing.

Choosing the best piping for your plumbing project can be a tough decision, as each material has its own strengths and weaknesses. Copper piping is a tried-and-true option known for its durability and long lifespan, but it can be more expensive and difficult to install. Pex piping, on the other hand, is more affordable, easier to install, and flexible enough to bend around obstacles.

Ultimately, the choice between copper and pex piping depends on a variety of factors, including budget, location and desired lifespan. Consulting with a professional plumber or contractor can help you make an informed decision that best fits your specific needs.

To ensure the longevity and reliability of your plumbing system, it’s important to understand the maintenance and care required for both pex and copper piping.

Pex Piping

Pex piping requires relatively low maintenance, but it’s still important to take steps to ensure its longevity and reliability. Homeowners should protect pex piping from direct sunlight or bury it underground to prevent damage from UV rays. Additionally, it’s important to avoid exposing pex piping to chemicals and solvents that can cause degradation over time.

Homeowners should also be aware of the temperature and pressure limitations of pex piping and ensure their plumbing system is properly designed to prevent any issues. With proper installation and maintenance, pex piping can provide reliable and long-lasting performance in plumbing applications.

Copper Piping

Copper piping requires some maintenance to ensure its longevity and reliability. Homeowners should regularly check for leaks or signs of corrosion and take steps to prevent scale buildup and freezing temperatures, Not doing so can cause pipes to burst. To prevent corrosion, homeowners should avoid exposing copper piping to acidic substances or harsh chemicals.

Copper piping is also more susceptible to damage from UV rays than pex piping and should be protected from direct sunlight if used outdoors. With proper care and maintenance, copper piping can provide reliable and long-lasting performance in plumbing applications.

Best for Maintenance and Care:

When it comes to maintenance and care, pex piping has the upper hand over copper piping. Pex is resistant to corrosion, scale buildup and freezing temperatures, which means you can spend less time worrying about upkeep and more time enjoying your home. While copper piping is durable and long-lasting, it may require more TLC to keep it in tip-top shape.

One of the most important considerations when choosing a piping material is its expected lifespan, as this can impact the long-term cost and reliability of your plumbing system. We’ll see how these two piping options differ.

Pex Piping

Pex piping has an expected lifespan of 25 to 40 years, depending on the manufacturer and the specific application. While this is a shorter lifespan compared to copper piping, pex is still considered to be a reliable and durable material for plumbing. Its flexibility and resistance to corrosion and scale buildup can help extend its lifespan and prevent leaks and other issues.

It’s important to note that proper installation and maintenance can also impact the lifespan of pex piping. Additionally, consulting with a professional plumber can help ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Copper Piping

Copper piping is known for its longevity and can last over 50 years with proper installation and maintenance. While it is generally considered to have a longer lifespan than pex piping, copper is also more susceptible to corrosion, scale buildup and leaks over time. It’s important to properly maintain copper piping to prevent these issues and extend its lifespan. With regular inspections and maintenance, copper piping can provide reliable and long-lasting performance in plumbing applications.

Best for Lifespan:

Copper piping has a longer expected lifespan than pex and is generally considered to be more durable and reliable over the long term. While pex piping is also a reliable option, its shorter lifespan and concerns about long-term reliability may be less desirable for those those seeking a more long-lasting plumbing solution.

Pex Piping

• Low: $0.28 per foot
• Medium: $4.32 per foot
• High: $12.23 per foot

Copper Piping

• Low: $1.35 per foot
• Medium: $17.90 per foot
• High: $117.76 per foot

Best for Cost:

Pex piping is generally considered to be a more cost-effective option. However, it’s important to note that the average price will increase on a per-foot basis based on the diameter of the tubing needed.

While copper piping may be considered more durable and reliable over the long term, the higher cost may make it a less attractive option for those looking to save money.

The ease of installation is an important factor to consider when choosing a piping material, as it can impact the time and cost of any plumbing project.

Pex Piping

Pex piping is generally easier and faster to install than copper piping due to its flexibility and the fact that it requires fewer fittings. It can be easily bent and curved to fit around obstacles, reducing the need for specialized tools and fittings. Pex piping can also be connected using compression or push-fit fittings, which can be installed quickly and easily without the need for soldering. Overall, the ease of installation is one of the main advantages of pex piping, making it a popular choice for DIYers and professionals alike.

Copper Piping

Copper piping is generally more difficult and time-consuming to install than pex piping due to its rigidity and the fact that it requires specialized tools and fittings. Copper piping must be cut precisely and soldered together, so this job should be done by someone with a high level of skill and experience.

When installed correctly, copper piping can provide reliable and long-lasting performance. Despite the difficult installation process, many homeowners and contractors still prefer copper piping for its proven track record and long-term reliability.

Best for Installation:

Pex piping is generally easier and faster to install than copper piping due to its flexibility and the fact that it requires fewer fittings. It’s a better choice for those who want a simpler installation process. While copper piping may be more difficult and time-consuming to install, the material’s long-term reliability and durability may make it a better choice for those seeking a more traditional and proven plumbing solution.

Each piping material has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Weighing these pros and cons is an important step in deciding which material is best for your specific needs.

Pex Piping

Pros:

• Flexible and easy to install, reducing the need for specialized tools and fittings
• Highly resistant to corrosion, scale buildup, and freezing temperatures
• Generally considered more sustainable due to lower energy requirements during manufacturing and reduced potential for leaks

Cons:

• Concerns about long-term reliability, as it has not been in use as long as copper piping
• Can be susceptible to damage from UV rays and exposure to chemicals and solvents
• May have limitations in high-temperature applications and should not be used for outdoor plumbing unless properly protected from direct sunlight

Copper Piping

Pros:

• Proven track record of reliability and durability, with an expected lifespan of over 50 years
• Highly resistant to damage from UV rays and exposure to chemicals and solvents
• Suitable for high-temperature applications and can be used for outdoor plumbing without special protection

Cons:

• More difficult and time-consuming to install compared to pex piping as it requires specialized tools and fittings
• Susceptible to corrosion and scale buildup over time, requiring regular maintenance to prevent leaks and other issues
• Higher embodied energy due to its production process and can be more expensive compared to pex piping

The piping material you choose can impact your home’s resale value, as potential buyers may take into consideration the plumbing system and its reliability and durability when making a purchase decision.

Pex Piping

Pex piping is a popular and modern plumbing solution, which may appeal to potential home buyers looking for an up-to-date plumbing system. However, due to concerns about its long-term reliability, some buyers may be hesitant to purchase a home with pex piping. Overall, the impact of pex piping on the resale value of a home will depend on a variety of factors, including the specific market and location, as well as the condition and age of the piping system.

Copper Piping

Copper piping is a time-tested and reliable plumbing solution that is generally considered to have a positive impact on the resale value of a home. Potential buyers may view copper piping as a sign of quality and durability, which can make a home more attractive financially. However, the impact of copper piping on the home resale value will depend on a variety of factors, including the specific market and location, as well as the condition and age of the piping system.

Best for Resale Value:

Copper piping is generally considered to have a more positive impact on the resale value of a home. Its proven track record of reliability and durability can make a home more attractive to potential buyers, while concerns about the long-term reliability of pex piping may make some buyers hesitant.

Choosing the right piping material for your home is an important decision that can impact the long-term cost, reliability and value of your plumbing system. While both pex and copper have their unique advantages and disadvantages, the best choice for your specific needs will depend on a variety of factors, including your budget, installation requirements and preferences.

Ultimately, consulting with a professional plumber or contractor can help you determine the best option for your specific needs and ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your plumbing system.

To arrive at the average costs in this article, editorial team members surveyed eight providers on national and local levels. All averaged figures were correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.