PEX vs Copper: What’s the Best Choice for Your Water Lines?

If you’re planning to upgrade your home’s plumbing, chances are you’ve heard about PEX. It’s flexible, cost-effective, and growing in popularity. But what about copper — the classic material trusted for decades?

At UPR, we’ve worked with both. So here’s a clear, no-nonsense breakdown of PEX vs. copper, and which one might be the better fit for your home.

 First, What Are We Talking About?

Water supply lines — the pipes that carry clean water to your taps, toilets, showers, and washing machine.

Over time, older galvanized or lead lines corrode and need replacing. That’s when we recommend either PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) or Type L copper.

 PEX: The Flexible Favorite

PEX is a plastic-like tubing that’s durable, flexible, and easy to install. It can be bent around corners, requires fewer fittings, and is often more budget-friendly.

Pros:

• ✅ More affordable material and labor

• ✅ Resistant to freezing and bursting

• ✅ Flexible — fewer fittings, fewer leak points

• ✅ Faster to install (great for tight or finished spaces)

Cons:

• ❌ Slightly shorter lifespan than copper

• ❌ Can be damaged by UV light (not for outdoor use)

• ❌ Some insurance policies may require copper (check before choosing)

 Copper: The Longtime Gold Standard

Copper has been the go-to for decades — known for durability, cleanliness, and high-pressure tolerance. It’s ideal in visible spaces and for those who want traditional reliability.

Pros:

• ✅ Lasts 50+ years when installed properly

• ✅ Naturally bacteria-resistant

• ✅ Fire- and UV-resistant

• ✅ Great for resale value in some markets

Cons:

• ❌ Higher cost for material and labour

• ❌ Requires more fittings

• ❌ Can corrode if water is highly acidic

 So, Which One Is Right for You?

• Renovating on a budget?  PEX might be your best friend.

• Replacing exposed pipes?  Copper may be worth the investment.

• Tight crawlspace or finished basement?  PEX makes routing easier.

• Long-term upgrade in your forever home?  Copper could pay off.

At UPR, we often install both, depending on the area of the home. For example: copper for exposed mechanical rooms, PEX behind walls.

 Our Take as Plumbing Pros

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but there’s always a best choice for your home, layout, and budget. We’ll walk you through both options and help you choose the right fit based on your water pressure, local code, and lifestyle.

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