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Copper vs PEX Repiping: Pros, Cons, and What We Recommend for Older Homes
- Oliver Owens
- Aug 15
- 8 min read
Repiping is not something most homeowners consider before their house gives them a few hints
Most people don’t wake up one day thinking, “I want to discuss repiping today.”
The conversation usually starts because the water pressure is mysteriously dropping, the
homeowner has had one too many calls about leaks behind the wall, the hot water pressure
is suddenly lower than the cold, the water appears rusty upon turning on the faucet, or, after
years of repairing the plumbing system, the homeowner finally asks, “Is this really just
patching an old system?”
This is when copper or PEX repiping gets tossed into the conversation.
At Kramer’s Plumbing, we discuss both options with our Placentia, CA, and North OC
homeowners because both materials can offer great results when the plumbing system
under the house is the right fit for each one. This guide shares the pros and cons so
homeowners can decide what to choose based on their system, their access to the pipes,
their budget, and their goals.
Know Your Jargon: What exactly IS repiping?
Repiping is replacing the water supply lines running through the home with hot and cold
water. They are the distribution lines feeding water to the sink, shower, bathtub, kitchen,
toilet, laundry room, water heater, and other plumbing fixtures in the house.
It is different than a repair because a repair tackles a single point of failure in the plumbing
system while repiping is repairing a larger portion of the water supply system.
That doesn’t mean that every leaky pipe discovered in the home needs to be replaced. It
does mean that as the pattern of leaks begins to emerge and the water pressure drops,
repiping becomes a viable option for the homeowner.
The Conversation Starter for Repiping
Typically, repiping conversations begin when one or more of these concerns surface:
Recurring pinhole leaks
Loss of water pressure
Rusty water
Galvanized piping
Slab leaks
Hot water pressure loss
Water damage
Repairing the plumbing system has become a frequent maintenance task
Remodeling has exposed old and deteriorating piping
It is all about the pattern.
A few repairs here and there may not indicate repiping trouble, but frequent repairs that require drywall repair, worry about the next potential plumbing catastrophe, or loss of pressure in the system can signal that it may be time to begin considering copper or PEX repiping.
What Is Copper Piping?
For many years, copper has been the piping material of choice for homeowners. This is a rigid metal piping material typically run in straight lines, connected by soldered, brazed, or pressed fittings, depending on the installation method.
Copper Development Association: Copper tube, pipe, and fittings are fundamental components in plumbing systems and are considered a major building material by many professionals and consumers.
Copper is a popular choice for plumbing systems because it is familiar, durable, and rigid.
Pros of Copper Repiping
Copper has a long-standing reputation and history of being a reliable building material.
Copper is rigid and durable due to its metal composition.
Copper is easily recognizable, and many inspectors and plumbers find it simple to work with.
Copper holds up well to pressure and heat when installed correctly.
Cons of Copper Repiping
Copper is frequently more expensive to install and can require more fittings depending on the access and available space.
Copper is a reactive metal and can be prone to corrosion and pinhole leaks, especially in the presence of certain water conditions.
Copper is not as flexible as some other types of piping materials.
Copper repiping can sometimes involve more invasive repairs during installation.
What Is PEX Piping?
PEX is short for crosslinked polyethylene, a type of plastic used to make flexible tubing for residential and commercial hot and cold water distribution systems. The tubing is usually installed with special PEX fittings and is popular throughout the industry, especially for repiping systems.
ASTM’s Standard Specification for PEX Tubing covers dimensions, pressure and temperature ratings, and tests for burst pressure, hydrostatic sustained pressure, excessive pressure and temperature, and oxidative resistance in chlorinated water and UV light. The standard notes that the tubing is intended for use in hot and cold water distribution systems for residential and commercial applications that comply with applicable codes.
For most PEX projects, the flexible nature of the material and its ability to allow fewer fittings in some installations than other types of plumbing systems are significant advantages. Let’s explore the pros and cons of PEX repiping.
Pros of PEX Repiping
PEX can be flexible and is frequently used to navigate hard-to-reach areas.
PEX can allow for fewer fittings in some installations.
PEX is frequently a more cost-effective material and installation choice for repiping.
PEX can be a fantastic choice when accessibility is a concern.
PEX can provide excellent results when properly installed.
Cons of PEX Repiping
PEX is not suited for prolonged UV exposure without proper protection.
PEX might not have the same appeal as copper does, and some inspectors or homeowners might have concerns about its performance.
The success of a PEX repipe heavily depends on the skill of the professional performing the job.
Every situation is different, and every project will be customized based on specific needs and local code requirements.
Is Copper or PEX Repiping Best for Older Homes?
Copper and PEX can both be great solutions for homes with aging galvanized pipes, frequent pinhole leaks, water pressure concerns, or slab leak issues. The choice between them depends on the preferences of the homeowner.
Copper is usually a good choice when
The homeowner prefers a time-tested metal piping material.
A larger budget is available because copper repiping can be more expensive to install than PEX.
Copper is desired in accessible spaces.
The existing plumbing system allows for the proper installation of rigid piping.
Rigid metal piping is a priority for the homeowner.
PEX could be the right choice when
The customer is looking for a more budget-friendly repiping material and method.
Home access to the existing plumbing system is limited.
The customer prefers the flexibility of PEX to navigate tight spaces.
The customer wants to minimize invasive repairs.
The customer is trying to avoid unnecessary disruption and prefers a less invasive process.
The existing plumbing system allows for the proper installation of flexible piping.
For many older homes, PEX is an appealing option because it can be installed in a wide variety of home layouts, while copper is desirable for its reputation and durability. In many cases, neither one is automatically the better choice for a home.
What About Slab Leaks?
When it comes to slab leaks causing homeowners to explore repiping, the conversation centers on the repair of the affected service line and determining whether it should be rerouted or replaced with the rest of the water supply lines as well.
After all, one slab leak could end up being the first of many, so the decision to complete additional work on the entire water supply system should be carefully considered.
What About Water Pressure?
When it comes to repiping, most homeowners are looking to improve the pressure in their homes. Older homes tend to have less pressure than modern ones, and a restricted, corroded, or undersized water supply line can be a culprit. With that said, pressure loss due to faulty pressure regulators, reduced water supply from the municipality, fixtures, or valves should be ruled out first.
What Determines the Cost of Repiping?
The cost of repiping depends on a number of factors, including the size of the home, the number of bathrooms, the number of plumbing fixtures, the chosen material, access to the existing plumbing, the need for drywall repair, the availability of hot and cold water, the placement of the water heater, codes and permits, and more. This is why an accurate estimate can only be provided after a professional plumber inspects a home and analyzes the existing system. A large two-story home is not the same as a small single-story home.
What Questions Should I Ask Before Choosing PEX or Copper?
Before deciding on copper or PEX, ask what caused the recommendation, what problems you hope to solve, and if pressure loss is an issue. Ask what level of access is required, what impact the repair will have on your home, and whether both hot and cold water supply lines will be replaced.
Ask what should happen to the old piping once the repair is complete and what kind of warranty applies. Ask about expectations and concerns so you understand the recommendation.
A professional plumber should be able to respond to these questions without manipulating you into rushing the decision-making process.
FAQ: Copper vs PEX Repiping
Is copper a better choice than PEX?
Copper is a long-standing and reliable choice, but it is not always the best option for every home. PEX can be more cost-effective and flexible, allowing it to be installed in many different kinds of homes. What makes the most sense depends on the situation.
Is PEX a good option for hot and cold water?
PEX tubing is suited for hot and cold water distribution systems, provided that it complies with code and is installed correctly.
Does repiping help with water pressure?
Yes, repiping can help if the existing water supply lines are undersized, restricted, corroded, or otherwise faulty. With that said, other causes of pressure loss should be ruled out before making the decision to repipe.
Is copper more expensive than PEX?
Copper is frequently more expensive due to material costs and the complexity of the labor involved. This can vary depending on the access to the existing lines.
What makes me realize that I need repiping done?
If there are recurring leaks, the hot water pressure has dropped, the water has lost its pressure altogether, and frequent maintenance is necessary, it may be time to consider repiping. Every situation should be reviewed with a qualified professional.
Can PEX be used in older homes?
PEX can be used in older homes if it is compatible with local codes and can be accessed properly. It is a great choice for replacing outdated galvanized water supply lines in many different types of homes.
Is copper a good choice for repiping?
Copper can be an excellent choice. It is a traditional piping material with a long-standing reputation. It may be a great choice for those who are comfortable with the cost and want to utilize a known and durable metal.
Should I consider repiping after discovering one slab leak?
That depends on the situation. One slab leak can sometimes be repaired without repiping the entire water supply system. Repeated slab leaks and aging water lines under the slab may require additional considerations.
Call Kramer’s Plumbing For Help With Your Repiping Needs in Placentia, CA
When copper or PEX repiping options come up, many homeowners find themselves on the fence. However, Kramer’s Plumbing is here to review the options with you and share how each choice applies to your home.
Whether you’re having trouble with frequent leaks, low pressure, aging galvanized lines, or you’re dealing with slab leak concerns, our team can help you understand the situation and decide which option to choose.
Kramer’s Plumbing is a local business serving the residents of Placentia, CA, as well as the surrounding North Orange County area, including Fullerton, Brea, Yorba Linda, Anaheim Hills, and more. Contact us by phone at (714) 260-3986 or through our contact page to request an evaluation and learn more about repiping.
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