PEX Pipe

PEX is the shortened name for cross-linked polyethylene, a super-strong, semi-rigid plastic tubing. For convenience, PEX comes in red for hot, blue for cold, and white for any temperature. These colors are only to aid in installing the product and in subsequent repairs; they do not confer any temperature-related qualities on the pipe.

PEX pipe can make tight bends without being heated. It can handle high pressure and high temperature. One form of fitting is as simple to use as pressing the pipe into the fitting. Another type of fitting is more difficult but not nearly as difficult as sweating joints onto copper pipe. This second method uses copper rings crimped over the pipe and the fitting with a special tool.