“PEX can sometimes give off that plasticky smell for a while, though it usually fades.”
That smell totally threw me off the first time I turned on the shower after my reno. I half expected to step into a giant Tupperware container. But yeah, it was gone in a few weeks and now I don’t even notice.
I went with PEX mostly because the copper pricing made my wallet cry, and honestly, I’m not trying to master soldering in my spare time. The whole “sunlight is PEX’s kryptonite” thing had me worried too, but my pipes are all tucked away like little vampires, so fingers crossed.
Haven’t tried the UV-resistant stuff yet. I saw it at the store and almost grabbed some, but then I started calculating how many other things in my house need fixing and decided regular PEX was the way to go (for now). If anyone’s actually put it in and noticed a difference, would love to hear if it’s just hype or worth splurging on next round.
- That plasticky smell is weird at first, but I’ve read it’s not harmful and it really does fade out. I had the same experience—thought something was off with my water for a bit.
- PEX is definitely easier on the budget and the install process is way less intimidating than copper. I’m with you on not wanting to mess with soldering or torching pipes in tight spaces.
- On the UV-resistant PEX: I did a little digging before my last project. From what I found, the UV stuff is mainly for places where the pipe might get exposed to sunlight (like unfinished basements or garages with windows). If your lines are all hidden behind walls or under floors, regular PEX should be fine. The UV-resistant version costs more and doesn’t really add much unless you’ve got exposure issues.
- One thing I did notice—PEX is supposed to be more eco-friendly in terms of manufacturing energy use compared to copper. But it’s still plastic, so there’s that tradeoff if you’re thinking about environmental impact.
- If you ever do have to run lines where sunlight could hit, maybe then consider the UV stuff. Otherwise, probably not worth stressing over.
I’ll take PEX over copper any day, especially for a rental. I’ve done enough sweating pipes in crawlspaces to last a lifetime—give me a crimp tool and some PEX and I’m a happy camper. That plasticky smell? Yeah, it’s weird, but it’s gone after a week or two. Never had a tenant complain about it long-term.
“PEX is definitely easier on the budget and the install process is way less intimidating than copper.”
Couldn’t agree more. Plus, if you ever have to reroute or fix something down the line, PEX is way less of a headache. I know some folks get hung up on the “it’s plastic” thing, but honestly, copper prices are through the roof and thieves love it. Had a break-in once—lost a bunch of copper, but they left the PEX alone. Go figure.
As for UV-resistant PEX, unless you’re running lines in direct sunlight, it’s just money down the drain. Regular stuff holds up fine behind drywall or under floors. If you’re worried about eco impact, neither option is perfect, but at least you’re not burning yourself with a torch.
Copper definitely has its place, but I hear you on the hassle factor—sweating joints in tight spots is no one’s idea of a good time. PEX just makes the whole process smoother, especially if you’re working alone or on a tight timeline. That plasticky smell is a thing, but like you said, it fades pretty quick and most people never even notice.
You nailed it about rerouting or repairs down the road. With copper, you’re dragging out the torch and hoping you don’t set off the smoke alarm. PEX? Just a cutter and a crimp tool, and you’re good. I’ve also seen a few break-ins where the copper was stripped out, but the PEX was left untouched—guess it’s not worth the effort for thieves.
I’d only bother with UV-resistant PEX if you’re running lines where sunlight hits them, like in a sunroom or unfinished basement with windows. Otherwise, standard PEX is just fine. Neither option is perfect for the environment, but at least you’re not risking burns or inhaling flux fumes. For a walk-in shower swap, PEX is a solid choice—quick, clean, and reliable.
I hear you on the copper theft thing—my neighbor had their whole crawlspace stripped a few years back, and the thieves left the PEX like it was radioactive. Guess nobody’s melting down plastic pipes for beer money.
I’m with you that PEX is just way less drama, especially if you’re not a fan of playing with fire in tight corners. But I’ve always wondered about long-term durability. I know copper can last basically forever if it’s not in corrosive soil or water, but does anyone actually have 30-year-old PEX in their house yet? I’ve seen some folks online say the fittings can be a weak point, especially if you cheap out on them.
Also, has anyone run into issues with rodents chewing on PEX? I’ve heard horror stories, but never seen it myself. Just curious if that’s an urban legend or something to actually worry about.