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Galvanized pipes are steel or iron pipes that have a protective layer of zinc and were commonly installed into homes before 1960.

Galvanized pipes were discovered to lead to rust as they progressively corroded over time. This can cause build up in the Galvanized pipes which can be dangerous for your family if ingested.

Additionally, some galvanized pipes have lead service lines which can also eventually contaminate the water. Replacing the galvanized pipes and lead service lines is the only way to fully ensure lead does not move from the plumbing into the water supply. 

Galvanized Pipes were frequently installed into homes before 1960 and were used up until 1990. If your home was built in that time and has the original pipes, even without the hazardous risk of lead service lines, the galvanized pipes may not be working as well as they could be if the flow of water is limited or leaking.

With the introduction of new piping material in recent years, most homes are now moving from Galvanized to PEX piping.

Why PEX Pipes Are A Better Alternative

PEX, the commonly used abbreviation for cross-linked polyethylene pipes, binds the molecules in bridge-like structure to form a safe, secure and efficient piping. The polyethylene material is processed so that it becomes resistant to:

• Chemicals
• Corrosions 
• Hot or cold extreme temperatures 
• Deformation from long-term exposure to stress

PEX piping is considered by many to be one of the biggest innovations in the home plumbing industry of the modern era. It was developed in the 1960’s and has successfully been the industry standard of long lasting and efficient piping in the United States since the 1980’s. 

The typical lifespan of PEX piping is 40 years to 50 years. However, there are certain factors that can reduce its lifespan, such as exposure to ultraviolet rays. It’s for this reason that it’s best to limit sunlight exposure to the PEX Pipes.

The Benefits That PEX Piping Has To Offer

Replacing Galvanized piping with PEX piping has many benefits to offer including flexibility, durability, and being cost effective. PEX has several advantages when compared to other options such as copper or polyvinyl chloride piping.

PEX piping is extremely flexible and can be bent and shaped around corners unlike other rigid repiping options such as copper. Since PEX Piping can be molded to fit any shape, it can save you the potential hassle of needing to build up a whole new network just for pipes. 

PEX Piping can be the affordable top-tier choice for repiping. The price of PEX piping is drastically lower than the price of copper pipes, as copper prices tend to run higher. PEX Pipes design simplicity does not have as many fittings as other systems. This reduces the pipe’s chance of leakage and the price of installation.

In addition to the aforementioned characteristics of PEX Pipes, they are quiet, eco-friendly, clean, efficient and can lower future utility bills. PEX Piping is durable and in the long run, will hold up against conditions better than CPVC because the PEX material can expand and contract without breaking. CPVC is known to cause homeowners difficulty by becoming brittle and breaking easier than PEX Piping, especially from freeze breakage.

Due to its flexibility and durability, PEX pipe is great for:

• Snaking through walls, remodels and new builds.
• Working in areas with low ventilation where fumes can be dangerous.
• For those with a need for a higher PSI rating, such as in areas with a risk of freezing.

The Differences In PEX Piping

PEX Piping can be utilized in three different colors to help in identifying their use. Red is used to identify hot water, blue identities cold water, and white for any additional line that may be required.

There are only three main manufacturing processes used to produce PEX tubing. The Peroxide method used to make PEX-A tubing, the Silane method used to make PEX-B tubing, and the Irradiation method used to make PEX-C. These are not grades of PEX Piping, they are only used to identify the manufacturing process rather than the quality or performance rating.

Regardless of brand, all manufacturing processes have to adhere to the same standard:

• Pressure and temperature ratings
• Minimum bending radius
• Pipe wall thickness and ID/OD dimensions

How To Know When Repiping Is Needed

There are several signs that may indicate that it is time to replace galvanized piping. Dire plumbing problems can wreak havoc shortly even if it doesn’t seem extreme yet. If the piping bursts or breaks, it can cause severe damage to the property.

Some common signs that it’s time to repipe your property include:

• Visual or audible leaking pipes
• Visible corrosion on your pipes
• Low water pressure
• Water from the pipes is discolored
• Your water tastes or smells bad
• You noticed the temperature of your water fluctuates

There are many reasons for repiping with PEX Plumbing and its essential to repipe with an experienced team for long lasting results. For instance, if you have someone not certified by the PEX manufacturer install the system in your home, all of your warranties can be voided.

Repiping Galvanized Pipes With PEX Piping

PEX Plumbing is a synthetic material that is typically preferred due to its flexibility, range of use, and affordability. PEX Piping can help prevent leaks, corrosion and other common failures and is an excellent choice if you find you need to replace pipes. 

If you are considering replacing your galvanized pipes with PEX piping, it’s important to consult with a repipe specialist or expert. There are several factors pertinent to you, your home, and the pipes installation that should be overseen by a trusted plumbing specialist. The installation should always be performed by a certified and experienced team. 

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