PEX Plumbing…The next Greatest thing or the next Biggest failure?
🚨 Potential Issues with PEX Plumbing: What Homeowners Should Know
From Kenco Home Inspections Inc.
First of all, do you know what PEX is? That is the easy part. PEX or as nobody likes to call it is Cross-Linked Polyethylene! This has been a popular choice in modern plumbing due to its affordability, flexibility and ease of installation (compared to Copper and even CPVC). So builders like it because it cuts down on labor and material cost and so do contractors, and even homeowners. I know, I know….Sounds GREAT! and it does have those great characteristics. Lets not get caught up in all the glitz and glitter without also talking about some of the issues that have come about as well.
Types of PEX
There are three main types of PEX, each suited for specific applications:
PEX-A: The most flexible and durable, made using the peroxide method. Ideal for complex installations but slightly more expensive.
PEX-B: Stiffer than PEX-A, made using the silane method. It’s the most common and affordable option.
PEX-C: Made using the electron beam method, it’s less flexible but suitable for smaller projects or repairs.
Some of the major issues associated with PEX are as follows
1. UV Sensitivity
Issue: PEX tubing degrades when exposed to direct sunlight or even prolonged exposure to indirect UV rays (like from fluorescent lights in garages or attics). This can cause a chalky appearance or small cracks or checking of the material that can lead to failure and leaks. One of the issues here is that these small cracks or checks may not be readily visible and may require a very close examination.
2. Rodent Damage
Issue: Mice and rats can chew through PEX lines, causing leaks or water damage. The pipes can be routed through the attic and walls and may not be visible for inspection. Attic insulation may cover the pipes and areas inside the walls are hidden.
3. Fitting Failures
Issue: Improper installation of fittings, especially with crimp or clamp connections, can lead to leaks over time. Certain types of clamps can corrode and fail over time. Certain types of clamps require the use of a gauge verify proper crimp, this type of clamp was often not checked to verify proper crimp and can lead to failure. Certain fittings have failed due to corrosion or the same type of UV sensitivity
4. Chemical Sensitivity
Issue: PEX can absorb chemicals from contaminated soil or water, potentially affecting water quality and pipe integrity. There are other issues related to the chemical compounds including that the pipes can leach organic materials into the water that can enable biofilm growth inside the pipes and at the fittings that can cause off-tastes and odors. disinfection by-products or DBP can form as a result of reaction to disinfectants.
5. Different Brands, Different Issues
Issue: Not all PEX is created equal. Some off-brand or older types (e.g., Zurn's early yellow PEX) have been linked to premature failure. As well as issues other well known brands like Viega and the colored Uponor that has been the subject of a class action lawsuit due to clams of premature failure. have had problems with the colored pipes. NIBCO has a $43.5 million fund established to address claims. This list is ever expanding and includes others like Rehau, Mr. Pex, Whirlpool, Watts, Everhot, Roth, Cash-Acme, Rifeng and even sharkbite.
6. Insurance & Code Restrictions
Issue: Some insurance companies and municipalities have concerns or restrictions around PEX plumbing, particularly older systems. One in particular is Universal Property and Casualty that will not write policies on homes that have PEX installed prior to 2010 and may not be the last to create a restriction on the product
💡 Inspector’s Tip: If you have a home with PEX plumbing—or you're buying one—have it inspected carefully by a Plumbing Specialist who is familiar with the failures of the material and potential risks.