PEX is the abbreviation for polyethylene with cross-links. IT is being used widely to make pipes both for domestic and commercial use. The material is being used effectively in hydronic radiant heating systems, insulation for high power electrical cables and domestic water piping. This also finds usage for transporting natural gas and oil, chemical transportation and disposing sewage and slurries. It has become a valuable substitute for copper pipes, chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in a big way.
The pipe-materials that were being used previously had some shortcomings. There were problems of corrosion with galvanized iron pipe. The CPVC had pinhole leak and freeze crack problems M copper needs to be sweated while fitting. L copper is softer and therefore can be sweated, flared or compressed to be fitted.
The size of a PEX pipe ranges from 1/4-inch to 4-inch. But pipes of 1 inch, 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch are used in most cases. Here we will take about PEX pipe installation in the domestic scenario.
Let us take a look at the benefits of PEX pipe. They can be used for both hot and cold water. The pipes are extremely flexible. This property has lead to PEX plumbing DIY (Do it Yourself). Yes, you can do the plumbing yourself as these pipes offer incredible flexibility. A 3/8" pipe may be bent to a 4" radius and 1/2" pipe to a 5" radius. Moreover, you need very less fittings and there are minimal points to which leakage can happen. The PEX pipes have a least risk of bursting as it can expand and contract. And if you need to repair it you can buy the repair kits available in the market. DIY PEX plumbing pipes are available that you can buy to do the minor plumbing jobs yourself.
There are two methods of PEX pipe installation. The first is that of contraction. This needs a bit effort on your part. The next one is insertion, The latter can carried out easily. These pipes s do not need the smelly glue to fit them.
These PEX pipes are available in roll of 100ft usually. You can buy the pipes of 10ft. long. They are available in red color for hot water and blue color for cold water. These pipes are generally used in the interior of the house. But they can be used in the exterior too. They are resistant to damage by freezing. They will expand and contract as the water freezes or thaws in the pipe.
What makes PEX pipes a favorite among the customers if the option of DYI that they give. Buy the pipe and cut it according to the measurement you require. Then just fit to make the connector work. It is great money saving material as you do not require the plumber to carry out plumbing in your house or repair the already installed pipe now and then. You can do it all yourself with PEX pipes. You will see your neighbor and friends turning green with envy at your prowess and marvel of doing all the plumbing job yourself.
Author Resource:
PEX Plumbing Expert is the author of this article on PEX Plumbing DIY .
Find more information about PEX Tubing Installation here.
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