What is pex?
http://www.pexsupply.com/PEX-Plumbing-515000
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a type of plastic tubing used in both plumbing and heating applications. PEX has been installed in Europe for over 30 years, and its use has become widespread in the United States over the last 10 to 15 years. Because of its ease of installation, reliability, and relatively low cost, PEX is continuously growing in popularity.
Advantages of PEX
Fewer Leaks : PEX plumbing installations require fewer fittings than rigid piping. This means there is less likelihood for leaks to occur at joint connections.
Flexible : PEX tubing can make 90 degree turns without elbow fittings, and PEX tubing unrolled from spools can be installed in long runs without the need for coupling fittings.
Corrosion Resistant : PEX resists the scale build-up common with copper pipe, and does not pit or corrode when exposed to acidic water.
Freeze Resistant : PEX is more resistant to freeze-breakage than copper or rigid plastic pipe.
No Water Hammer : Water flows more quietly through PEX tube, and "water hammer" noise that occurs in copper pipe systems is virtually eliminated.
Less Expensive : PEX tubing is less expensive than copper pipe and installation time is reduced because fewer fittings are required.
When installing a PEX plumbing system you will want to use non-oxygen barrier PEX tubing. All non-oxygen barrier PEX tubing found on PexSupply.com are rated for potable drinking water. In recent years, the number of different brands available has grown with the popularity of PEX. We recommend Rifeng for the most economic choice or AquaPEX (Uponor) for the highest quality.
