Are you looking for water line installation for your new project, or just trying to do some basic pipe maintenance by yourself? Whatever the case, it will be easier if you understand more about the pipe options available. The water supply system is one of the main components of modern plumbing applications. The choice of material is important for designing and constructing the system properly. Among the popular pipe materials in the marketplace, PEX, PVC, and copper pipes are the most commonly used options.
In this article, we will focus more on plastic pipes. Which is better, PEX pipe or PVC pipe? This guide will explain the difference between those two types of pipes from various perspectives to help you decide which one works best for you. With this resource in hand and a wide selection of plumbing supplies available here at PlumbingSell, you’ll be ready for your plumbing project!
Table of Contents
Material Comparison
PEX pipe is one of the most popular choices of plumbing systems worldwide. The most notable feature of PEX (cross-linked Polyethylene) pipe is its flexibility. This is because of the production method of this type of pipe; the molecular structure has been cross-linked through the production process. Based on the production process, PEX pipes have been divided into three subdivisions, PEX-A. PEX-B, PEX-C. If you want to learn more about the differences between these three types, check out this article. PEX pipes also come in various colors and sizes. The most commonly used ones in residential water systems are 1/2″ pex pipe and 3/4″ pex pipe.
On the other hand, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes are also another ideal choice for plumbing systems. They are widely used in both construction and plumbing systems. This material is known for its high strength, lightweight, corrosion resistance, and cost-efficiency. However, as they don’t have a cross-linked structure, their flexibility and temperature resistance are not as good as PEX pipes. The PVC pipes are also available in different types based on their compositions. The size of PVC pipes ranges from 1/2″ to 6” and above, and the mainly used ones are 1/2″, 3/4″, and 1″ pipes.
PEX and PVC pipes are both popular for plumbing systems. However, the characteristics of their materials have determined their different uses. PEX pipes are more flexible, resistant to freezing, and easy to install with fewer required fittings. Meanwhile, PVC pipes are more rigid, durable, and cost-efficient.
Longevity and Durability
PEX pipes are very good at resisting high and low temperatures. Generally, the temperature range it can withstand is around -40°C to 95°C, which makes it suitable for usage in cold climate places. Due to its flexibility and anti-scaling, PEX pipes are less likely to be cracked by frozen water. However, their resistance to UV sunlight is quite limited, which makes them unsuitable to be used for outdoor plumbing systems. PEX pipes can last for about 40-50 years in a normal situation. Even though there are chances for minor repairs, PEX pipes are pretty easy to replace, even for certain parts of the pipes.
PVC pipe’s performance is relatively poor at temperature resistance with a common temperature range from -5°C to 60°C. They are less likely to be used as hot water pipes. Hot water could cause PVC pipes to deform and age, which could lead to cracks. Although they are not naturally UV-resistant, there are specific techniques to improve their capability of sunlight. For instance, there are specifically made PVC materials like CPVC for pipes or the latex paint could be another option. Overall, PVC pipes could be used for outdoor projects if required, but specific add-ons are needed.
Both PEX and PVC pipes have a long usage period, ranging from 40 years to 70 years. However, there are certain limitations on where and what they can be used for. So, if you are looking for pipes for an indoor hot and cold water system, PEX pipes will be your first choice. For outdoor rigid applications, go with PVC pipes.
Installation Differences
PEX pipes are easier to install compared with other materials of pipes. They are lightweight, flexible, and can be cut easily. These pipes can also be bent easily around corners or obstacles and are capable of being navigated in tight spaces. With fewer PEX fittings and elbow joints required, the PEX pipes are less likely to cause a leak. The installation process of any sizes of PEX pipes, from 1/2″ pex to 1” pex is usually completed by using PEX crimping tools or PEX clamping tools. Therefore, they can be installed faster with lower labor costs.
PVC pipes are also simple to install. However, glue or hot melt welding is required for connection, which could cause potential on-site safety concerns. In addition, PVC pipes are relatively rigid, which means they are hard to bend compared with PEX pipes. More cutting and joints are required for the installation. More connections mean more possibility of leakage or loose connections.
In terms of the installation process, PEX pipes have great benefits compared with PVC pipes. Their flexibility has reduced the number of PEX fittings required and made the installation process easier and more secure.
Cost Comparison
PEX pipes are usually more expensive than PVC pipes. This is mainly because of the complicated production process of PEX pipes. The raw material and cross-linking process are higher. However, the effortless installation, long pipe durability, and low maintenance cost mean that the total cost of PEX pipes could actually be lower than PVC pipes, especially in long-term supply systems.
Although PVC pipes are relatively low in material cost, they are complicated to install and have a limited range of temperatures and usage. So, they may require more maintenance and replacement in the future. If you are doing a cost-sensitive project that mainly includes cold water and non-heated water systems, then PVC pipes will be your best option.
About EFIELD PEX Pipes
At PlumbingSell, we offer all sizes of EFIED PEX-A and PEX-B pipes. Whether you are looking for a basic 1/2″ PEX pipe or a 1 ” PEX pipe for a larger project, we’ve got you covered! These pipes are approved for use in portable water installation. We also offer 1/2 PEX fittings and other types of connections to best suit your needs. For more information on our unbeatable price EFIELD PEX products and fast delivery service, check out the product page here.
Conclusion
PEX and PVC pipes have their own benefits and drawbacks. Compared with PVC pipes, PEX pipes are more resistant to temperature, flexible, and easy to install. They are a better choice in situations where hot water systems are required and under extreme weather conditions. PVC pipes are beneficial in cost and low water temperature conditions.
Choosing the right pipe for your project is essential. We hope this article has helped you better understand how the materials and installation could influence your choice. If you need high-temperature, resistant pipes for general house water systems, 1/2″ PEX pipes are undoubtedly a better choice. If the project is more budget-conscious and the application does not require high water temperatures, PVC pipes are an economical choice.
