Pex A vs. Pex B
One of the most important things to learn if you’re new to plumbing is the difference between PEX A and PEX B. Both types of PEX, which were introduced in the 1970s, have been experiencing a bit of a renaissance in the last few years. PEX A and PEX B have been systematically taking over the use of more typical domestic piping options like copper.
PEX is popular because it lasts longer and the labor and cost to install is much more affordable. While their names are similar, do note that one of the most significant differences between PEX A and PEX B is that they possess unique joining methods.
Some experts say that PEX A is better because it includes a more well-rounded manufacturing process. Notwithstanding, when you’re deciding which PEX is best for your project, consider the following points:
The Cost
When it comes to PEX A and PEX B, the cost of fittings, materials, and even the sleeves can vary for both, but all in all, PEX B is typically the less expensive option. It does have its downsides, though. When you’re considering the cost of installing, remember to include the expense of materials as well as labor.
Flexibility
PEX A
- If PEX A becomes kinked, it’s easily remediable with a heat gun. The heat activates and softens the material which helps to bring it back to its original form.
- Thanks to its flexibility, PEX A enables you to make closer radial bends when compared with PEX B.
PEX B
- PEX B has limited flexibility because it’s made of the same expansive material as PEX A. That means, if your pipe gets kinked, there is no way to fix it which would force you to have to cut it out and start from the beginning.
Joining Method
If you were to compare PEX A and PEX B, you’d immediately notice they’re nearly the same size, but the difference is found within the amount of flow that is restricted.
PEX A
- Thanks to an extension style fitting, PEX A is larger and therefore requires a tool to help it expand.
- The material has a strong memory, ensuring it’ll revert back to its normal size.
- PEX A is better for tight-fitting spaces, which means you are able to increase the size of the fitting with ease, making it simple to conjoin it with a pipe that has already been installed.
- The colder the climate, the longer it takes for expansion-style fittings like PEX A to go back to their normal shape. While the ability to expand the fittings is helpful, you’ll need a heat gun to expedite the procedure.
PEX B
- Has a fitting that’s insert-style and once you insert the fitting into the pipe, a copper sleeve. The copper sleeve is used to fasten it in place by a crimp tool.
- The joining method for PEX B doesn’t need an expansion tool, making it easier to install. Whether you live in a hot or cold climate, the method of joining stays the same.
- The diameter is smaller in the fittings than PEX A, and the joining method decreases the diameter of the pipe, directly at the joint. This causes a marked increase in resistance to the flow, in addition to a decrease in the volume of water that travels to the fixtures in your home.
- Remember, the joining method is not as seamless when compared PEX A, which underscores the importance of a crimp tool, because crimping it by hand can cause it to crimp crookedly, which can lead to leaks.
System Sizing
- Perhaps one of the largest issues with PEX B is with plumbing. Because the insert-style fitting can sometimes bottleneck within the plumbing system, it’s important to go up a size to accommodate flow restriction.
- Remember that PEX A has a fitting that’s expansion-style, so there’s no need to go up a size.
While every project and home is unique, at GenCorp Homes Inc. we believe in going the extra mile, so we’d recommend PEX A. If you’d like more information about our stellar home building services, GenCorp Homes Inc. guarantees that your project will proceed with ease, thanks to our organized and stress-free strategy.
