I get the appeal of PEX, but I’m still a bit cautious about it in high-traffic areas. For kitchens and baths, I actually prefer copper for its rigidity—less risk of accidental punctures during future remodels or furniture moves. Plus, copper’s antimicrobial properties are a bonus if you’re picky about water quality. PEX is great for speed and cost, but sometimes the old-school materials just feel more solid, you know?
“I actually prefer copper for its rigidity—less risk of accidental punctures during future remodels or furniture moves.”
Fair point, but have you ever tried fishing new copper through a finished wall? That’s where PEX saves my sanity. I get the “solid” feel with copper, but honestly, I’ve seen more pinhole leaks in old copper than I’d like to admit. PEX does bounce back if you bump it, too... though I wouldn’t bet on it against a rogue drywall screw. Antimicrobial is cool, but I gotta wonder how much it really matters once the water’s moving.
Had a project last year where we had to reroute pipes for a kitchen overhaul. Pulling copper through those old plaster walls was a nightmare—ended up with a few extra holes I hadn’t planned on patching. PEX made the bathroom side way less stressful. I get the appeal of copper’s durability, but honestly, I’ve seen it corrode from the inside out in some older homes. Makes me wonder if “solid” always means “long-lasting”...
Yeah, pulling copper through plaster is a pain—I’ve been there, too. I get why people love copper, but honestly, PEX just makes life easier, especially in tight spots. I’ve seen 60-year-old copper look pristine and other times it’s a mess inside. Depends so much on water quality and if anyone used bad flux back in the day. PEX might not be “solid,” but it sure seems to hold up well under pressure and doesn’t corrode the same way. I’d take fewer patch jobs any day...
I hear you on the patch jobs—my wallet definitely prefers fewer of those. I’ve got a mix of old copper and newer PEX in my place, and honestly, I’m always half-waiting for the next leak. One thing I wonder about is freezing temps. My neighbor swears PEX is less likely to burst if it freezes, but I’m not sure if that’s just wishful thinking or actually true. Anyone had pipes freeze and survive?