Pros And Cons Of Copper and PEX Plumbing Pipe

Copper: Copper pipes are durable and lightweight. That means they’re easier to install than many other options, and they can last 50 - 80 years in the right conditions. Also, copper is fire and UV-resistant, making it great for around furnaces or outside. On top of all that, copper is easier to recycle than most other plumbing materials. That makes it much kinder to the environment.

PEX: While PEX pipes are also light, they’re more flexible than other pipes. That means fewer joints, which means fewer leaks. PEX pipes won't corrode with use like metal options. They’re also easier to fix than other pipes, which makes repairs less expensive. As an added bonus, many companies color code their pipes, making it easy to know which line you’re working with.

Copper: One of the biggest reasons people choose not to use copper is the cost. Copper is often more expensive than any other option. On top of that, because you have to solder to fix copper, the repairs can add up even more. And that's even if the problem is easy to reach. Outside of the cost, copper can leave a metallic taste to your water and it can't handle acidic water as well.

PEX: Most of PEX’s disadvantages come up when it’s outside. PEX isn’t as UV resistant as other pipe materials. That means it tends to break down when exposed to a lot of sunshine, which means it's not as good for outdoor use. It’s also harder to recycle than copper, so it can be harder on the environment once it reaches the end of its life.