PEX water pipes are high density polyethylene (HDPE), PEX contains cross-linked bonds in the polymer structure, changing the thermoplastic to a thermoset, thereby, the PEX pipes make it easy to install in tight spots. The pipe can turn wide radius 90° angles without elbow fittings. PEX flexible pipes offer a number of advantages over traditional metal pipes. Although copper and galvanized steel have been the pipe material of choice since the late 1800s, both materials are prone to corrosion and the development of pinholes. Once the pipes are damaged, contaminants are introduced to the drinking water. There’s also the issue of leaking water that takes away from our natural reserves and adds to the costs of the homeowner.
Benefits of PEX Water Pipes for Drinking Water
PEX water pipes are resistant to scale, corrosion, and chlorine. That means that unlike metal pipes, it doesn’t get pinholes. PEX pipes come in red, blue, white, and gray, all for use with potable water systems. The different colors perform the same but make it easy to distinguish between hot and cold water lines.
PEX pipes don’t require glue or cement to join them. They go together with push-fit fittings, plastic insert fittings or metal insert fittings. The material isn’t approved for continuous UV exposure, making it a poor choice for outdoor applications. It is, however, freeze resistant, preventing it from cracking and breaking when the temperatures drop.
Replacing Your Galvanized Metal Pipes
Galvanized metal pipes are coated with zinc to prevent rust and corrosion. Before plastic pipes became popular, galvanized metal pipes were used in place of dangerous lead pipes. Now, we know the problem that corrosion and rust cause in these pipes. Most homes built prior to 1960 have galvanized metal pipes and the problems that commonly go along with them. As a result, many homeowners are replacing their existing metal pipes with plastic ones like PEX.
Replacing your pipes is a disruptive and expensive process. It requires you to open walls and/or dig up the old pipe and replace it with a new one. The problem is that you also must open walls and/or dig up anything between the surface and the pipe too. That might include your driveway, landscaping, or a nearby street. Then you have the expensive reconstructions costs.
Pipelining offers a fast, more affordable option for replacing your metal pipes. We have pipelining solutions that work for almost any situation. We install the pipelining without any digging. Once the liner is in place, it has the same corrosion and rust resistance of PEX water pipes. It’s a better way to replace your corroded, rusted metal pipes without the mess.
Contact San Diego Plumbing and Pipelining today for more information on our pipelining solutions. We help you get long-lasting results without the expense or mess of digging.
