PEX tubing has many advantages over copper, lead, PVC plastic, and iron pipes. It is quickly starting to replace other piping in plumbing applications. If you are installing radiant heat flooring, building or remodeling your home, or upgrading your current plumbing, you will probably see this type of tubing used.
It is manufactured from a high-density polymer, which is incredibly strong and flexible. This is why it is so popular for use with radiant heat flooring. It can be bent at right angles without needing a elbow connector. It also resists crushing and crimping. You can see how this flexibility would make it preferable to rigid pipes for almost any application.
The incredible flexibility of this product has many advantages. It takes far less time and effort to install, which means your project will get done more quickly and cost less than if you used traditional plumbing pipes. It can also be made in a long, continuous roll, much like a hose. This makes it less expensive to produce and ship. The savings will be passed on to the consumer.
PEX tubing has several environmental advantages. It conserves energy by minimizing heat lost through the material. Plus, other types of plumbing requires the use of solder and flux to make the necessary connections. This leaches lead and acids into the water and and surrounding soil. The fact that PEX pipe requires no flux or solder means there are no dangerous chemicals introduced into the environment.
Another positive thing about PEX plumbing is that fewer connections means fewer places where the plumbing can develop leaks. This can save the homeowner a lot of hassle and expense down the line. Money is saved on both plumbing repairs, and possible costly repairs of the damage caused by any leaks within the walls or foundation.
Because polymer tubing like this allows a small amount of oxygen to escape through the material, you will need a special kind of tubing for radiant heat floors. This is because the flooring material can react with the oxygen and cause corrosion of the floor. There are a couple oxygen-barrier types of PEX plumbing materials on the market. Be sure your contractor is using one of these types for any flooring or walkways.
So for your next construction project, definitely look into the advantages of PEX tubing. Chances are it will be less expensive, both to purchase and install, than rigid pipes. You will also greatly reduce the risk of costly problems later on.
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