I get where you’re coming from with the rodent thing. I’ve seen a few horror stories online, but honestly, if you don’t already have mice or rats sneaking around, it’s probably not something to lose sleep over. Still, I’d be extra careful about sealing up any gaps before closing up walls—just makes sense to cover your bases.
I switched out some old copper for PEX in my last bathroom reno and was a little nervous at first. The “plastic taste” was there for maybe a week, but after that, water tasted normal again. Haven’t noticed any difference in pressure or anything like that. If you’re careful with the connections and use the right crimp rings (and double-check for leaks before buttoning everything up), it’s pretty straightforward.
One thing I’d add—if you’re in an area with a lot of rodents or you’ve had issues before, maybe stick with copper for anything behind finished walls, just for peace of mind. For exposed runs or places you can easily check, PEX is hard to beat for ease of install. I’m always a little paranoid about hidden leaks, so I tend to overdo it with the leak checks and insulation.
Either way, both materials have their pros and cons. PEX is definitely more forgiving if you’re doing it yourself. Just take your time, follow the instructions, and don’t rush the pressure test. It’s worth the extra hour or two to make sure everything’s solid before you start tiling or closing things up.
Honestly, I’d push back a bit on the idea that PEX is always more forgiving, especially for DIYers. The connections are easy, sure, but I’ve seen a few cases where folks didn’t fully seat the crimp rings or missed a tiny kink in the line, and it led to slow leaks that took months to show up. With copper, if you’ve got solid solder joints, you can usually spot issues right away during the pressure test. I know soldering can be intimidating, but it’s not impossible with a little patience. If you’re careful and methodical, copper behind walls isn’t as scary as it sounds—and you don’t have to worry about rodents at all. Just my two cents from fixing a couple of hidden PEX leaks over the years...
When I swapped out my tub for a shower last year, I actually went with PEX because I was nervous about soldering near old wood framing. That said, you’re right—getting those crimp rings just right is trickier than it looks. I had to redo one connection after spotting a slow drip during the pressure test. Copper definitely feels more “permanent” once it’s in, but for tight spaces and weird angles, PEX saved me a ton of hassle. Still, I’m always double-checking for leaks now... can’t help it after that scare.
“getting those crimp rings just right is trickier than it looks. I had to redo one connection after spotting a slow drip during the pressure test.”
That’s been my experience too—crimping seems simple until you’re actually in there, especially if you’re working overhead or in a cramped spot. I get why people like PEX for remodels, but I’m still a bit wary about long-term reliability compared to copper. That said, sweating pipes near old framing always makes me nervous... open flame and dry wood don’t mix well. I guess every method has its trade-offs.
Switching Out a Tub for a Walk-In Shower: Copper vs. PEX Pipes?
Crimp rings are definitely one of those things that look easy on YouTube, but in real life, you’re up on a ladder, your arms are shaking, and you’re trying not to drop the tool on your face. I’ve had a couple of those “slow drip” surprises too—nothing like thinking you’re done, then seeing that little bead of water forming. Makes you question your life choices for a second.
I get the hesitation about PEX. It’s newer, and there’s always that nagging thought about whether it’ll hold up in 30 years. But honestly, the more I work with it, the more I appreciate not having to break out the torch. I’ve seen some pretty sketchy situations with open flames near insulation or old studs. One time, I was helping out on a job and the guy I was with singed a chunk of 60-year-old wood... not a fun moment. We had a spray bottle ready, but still, my heart was pounding.
Copper’s solid, no doubt, but it’s not invincible either. I’ve seen pinhole leaks in older copper lines, especially where water’s a bit acidic. Plus, sweating pipes in tight spaces is just asking for trouble. PEX is forgiving if you mess up a cut or need to snake it through weird angles. The main thing is making sure those crimps are solid—double-checking with the gauge is a must, even if it feels like overkill.
I guess for me, it comes down to safety and practicality. If I’m working in an old house with a lot of wood and not much room to maneuver, I’d rather deal with a stubborn crimp ring than risk starting a fire. Still, I totally get why some folks stick with copper—there’s something satisfying about a perfectly soldered joint. But yeah, every method’s got its headaches... just gotta pick your poison.