When you’re planning a repipe, the choice between copper and PEX can affect the project’s cost, installation and future maintenance. Both materials can work well in a Colorado home. The right option depends on your home’s existing plumbing, layout and budget.
Here’s how the two compare, what Colorado homeowners should consider, and which questions to ask before replacing your pipes.
What’s the Difference Between Copper and PEX?
Copper is a rigid metal pipe that has been used in residential plumbing for many years. It’s durable, but it needs fittings at turns and connections, and the quality of the water can affect how it holds up over time.
PEX is flexible plastic tubing. It can run in longer sections with fewer connections, which may make it easier to route through walls and around corners. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Science Education resource explains that PEX can stretch as water freezes and return to its original size after thawing. That added flexibility does not make it freeze-proof.
Copper Pipe: Strengths and Tradeoffs
Copper has a long track record in homes and can provide many years of service when it’s properly installed and suited to the water conditions. Some homeowners also prefer its familiar, rigid construction.
- Durable material: Copper is rigid and can hold up well when installed correctly.
- Heat tolerant: Copper can handle high temperatures, making it suitable for hot and cold water lines.
- Water chemistry matters: Corrosion can occur in some conditions and may lead to leaks over time.
- More fittings may be needed: Its rigidity means the layout can require joints wherever the pipe changes direction.
- Repiping can cost more: Material and installation costs vary by home, but copper may be more expensive than PEX.
Older copper plumbing can also have soldered joints. The EPA explains that lead can enter drinking water from plumbing materials that contain lead, including older solder and fixtures. If you’re concerned about a home’s age or plumbing history, ask a qualified plumber to assess the system.
PEX Pipe: Strengths and Tradeoffs
PEX’s flexibility can help installers route water lines through a home with fewer connections. That may reduce the number of joints hidden in walls, though every installation still needs the right fittings and careful workmanship.
- Flexible routing: PEX can bend around some corners, which can simplify installation.
- Freeze flexibility: It may expand more than copper when water freezes, but freezing can still damage PEX or its fittings.
- Often lower installation cost: PEX may be less costly to install, depending on the home and project scope.
- Needs protection: PEX should be protected from prolonged direct sunlight and installed according to product requirements and local code.
- Not right for every location: The pipe’s route, nearby heat sources and connection points affect whether it’s a suitable choice.
What Colorado Homeowners Should Consider
Colorado’s cold winters make pipe placement and freeze protection important, regardless of the material. Pipes near exterior walls, in unheated basements, crawl spaces or garages can be more vulnerable to freezing.
Denver Water recommends insulating pipes that may be exposed to cold and keeping vulnerable areas warm during deep freezes. A flexible pipe can offer some extra room for expansion, but good installation and freeze protection matter more than relying on pipe material alone.
- Where are the current pipes routed, and are any in unheated areas?
- Are there signs of corrosion, recurring leaks or previous repairs?
- Will the new pipe layout reduce connections or improve access?
- Which material fits the home’s water conditions, fixtures and project budget?
- Will the installation meet applicable plumbing code and manufacturer requirements?
Denver Water’s cold-weather pipe guidance offers additional steps homeowners can take, such as insulating vulnerable pipes and knowing where the main shutoff valve is located.
So, Which Is Better: Copper or PEX?
There isn’t one best answer for every Colorado home. PEX may be a practical choice when flexible routing and installation cost are priorities. Copper may suit homeowners who prefer rigid metal piping or have specific project requirements that call for it.
The condition and layout of your plumbing matter as much as the material. A plumber can inspect the system, explain the options and provide a recommendation based on your home. Learn more about repiping services in Denver.
What to Expect During a Repiping Project
A repipe starts with an assessment of the current pipes, access points and fixtures. Your plumber can explain the proposed material, likely work areas and how the water service will be handled while the project is underway.
Before work begins, ask about the project schedule, wall or ceiling access, cleanup and any steps you’ll need to take at home. The scope varies by house, so a walkthrough is the best way to understand what your particular project involves.
Home Care Club
Brothers’ Home Care Club is a home maintenance option for customers who want to learn about ongoing care for their plumbing and other home systems. You can review the Home Care Club FAQs for more information.
Talk With Brothers About Your Repipe
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Call Now at (303) 468-2294 to discuss your plumbing concerns. You can also Call, Text or Online to connect with the team, or Book Today, Your Way! Find Brothers Plumbing, Heating & Electric on Google Maps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PEX better than copper for a Colorado home?
It depends on the home, the pipe route, water conditions and budget. PEX is flexible and may be less costly to install, while copper is a durable rigid option. A plumbing assessment can help determine what fits your project.
Can PEX pipes freeze in Colorado?
Yes. PEX may expand more than copper when water freezes, but it can still be damaged, and fittings can fail. Protect pipes in cold areas and address drafts or insulation gaps.
Do copper pipes last longer than PEX?
Both materials can provide long service when properly selected and installed. Their lifespan depends on factors such as water chemistry, installation quality, temperature and how the pipes are used.
Does PEX cost less than copper?
PEX often has lower material and installation costs, but the final price depends on the home’s layout, access, scope and local labor. Compare project estimates that describe the work and materials included.
Can PEX connect to existing copper pipes?
Yes. Approved transition fittings can connect PEX to copper. The connection needs to be compatible with the pipe and installed correctly.
Should I replace all the pipes if only one section is leaking?
Not always. A single leak may be repairable, but repeated leaks, widespread corrosion or aging pipes may justify discussing a full or partial repipe. Have the system evaluated before deciding.
Can I mix copper and PEX in my plumbing system?
In many cases, the materials can be joined with compatible fittings. The design and connections should follow applicable code and manufacturer instructions.
How do I prevent pipes from freezing?
Insulate pipes in vulnerable areas, seal drafts near plumbing, keep the home warm during cold weather and know where the main water shutoff is. If a pipe freezes, contact a plumber if you’re unsure how to thaw it safely.
