Copper vs. PEX: What’s the Right Solution for My Home Plumbing?

Copper vs. PEX: What’s the Right Solution for My Home Plumbing?

If you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking about replacing your old pipes or building a new section of plumbing in your home. Maybe you’ve heard about PEX piping from a friend, but your plumber mentioned copper. Which one is right for you?

At Revelation Plumbing, homeowners ask us this almost every week. In this post, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about copper vs PEX so you can make a confident, informed decision that protects your home and your wallet for decades to come.

🔧 First… What Are Copper and PEX Pipes?

🟠 Copper Pipes

Copper has been the gold standard in plumbing for over 60 years. It’s a metal pipe known for its durability, resistance to bacteria, and fire-proof qualities.

🔵 PEX Pipes

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a flexible plastic piping introduced in the U.S. in the 1980s. It’s become increasingly popular for its ease of installation and cost-effectiveness. There are two types of pex most commonly used - Pex and pex b. Curious about PEX-A vs. PEX-B and which one is right for your home? Click here to learn more.

⚖️ Copper vs. PEX: The Big Differences

💰 Cost of Installation

🔵 PEX: Usually 40-60% less expensive than copper for materials and installation. Its flexibility requires fewer fittings and connections, lowering labor costs.

🟠 Copper: More expensive due to material costs and labor-intensive installation.

For homeowners looking to keep their project budget-friendly, choosing PEX for your repipe can save you thousands, giving you the reliable plumbing you need at a fraction of the cost of copper.

🏠 Is Copper or Pex Easier To Install?

🔵 PEX: Flexible, bends around corners, and can be snaked through walls with minimal demo. Great for retrofits.

🟠 Copper: Rigid and requires precise cutting, soldering or pressing fittings at every turn, increasing install time.

👉 What does that mean in my home?PEX means fewer holes in your walls, faster installation, and less disruption to your daily life.

🔥 Durability & Lifespan

🔵 PEX: Rated 30-50 years depending on manufacturer, UV exposure, and water chemistry.

🟠 Copper: Often lasts 50+ years with proper water chemistry. However, acidic water or poor grounding can cause pinhole leaks.

👉 What does that mean in my home?

Copper has a proven record for long life, but modern PEX offers reliable durability at a lower cost.

❄️ Freeze Resistance: Copper vs. PEX

🔵 PEX: Expands and contracts with temperature changes, reducing risk of burst pipes in freezing conditions.

🟠 Copper: Can burst if water freezes inside the pipe because it lacks flexibility.

Burst Copper Pipes

If you live in an area prone to freezing temperatures (like Pennsylvania), PEX provides added peace of mind against burst pipes, especially in vulnerable areas like exterior walls, crawlspaces, or basements.

🔥 6. Heat Resistance

🔵 PEX: Rated for up to 200°F, which is more than sufficient for most residential hot water lines, including showers, sinks, and appliances.

🟠 Copper: Can handle extremely high temperatures without degradation, making it ideal for specialized installations.

Copper is often required by code to be stubbed out for the first 18 inches on gas water heater connections because it withstands direct heat better than PEX.

Additionally, boiler systems and hydronic heating applications typically use copper piping due to the consistently high temperatures they operate at. While PEX can handle standard hot water lines, copper’s superior heat resistance ensures safety and longevity in these high-heat scenarios.

🔍 What’s the Bottom Line?

Both copper and PEX are excellent options. The right choice depends on your priorities: cost, longevity, freeze resistance, and installation complexity.

At Revelation Plumbing, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all answers. We believe in educating you so you can choose what’s best for your home, family, and future.

💡 So... is Copper or Pex Right For My Home?

✅ Choose PEX if:

• You want a cost-effective solution with easy installation and fewer wall holes

• Your home has tight spaces or multiple turns

• You want added freeze-burst resistance

• you want less drywall patching

• You live in an area with hard water and high amounts of chloramine

✅ Choose Copper if:

• you have steam boilers

• You value maximum durability

• Your budget allows for higher material and installation costs

💬 Have Questions?

Our licensed plumbers are experts in both copper and PEX installations. We’re here to answer your questions, evaluate your home, and provide options that keep your home safe and your wallet happy.

📞 Call Revelation Plumbing today for a free in-home piping consultation.

412-518-7170