Copper’s solid, but for a tub-to-shower swap, PEX usually wins out these days. Here’s how I look at it: PEX is faster to run, especially if you’re dealing with tight spots or weird angles behind old walls. Less risk of burning something down, too. Just make sure you use the right fittings and a proper crimp tool—don’t cheap out there. Only thing I’d watch for is UV exposure; PEX doesn’t like sunlight. If you’re running lines anywhere exposed, stick with copper or cover the PEX. Otherwise, it’s hard to beat for convenience and reliability.
Honestly, I still lean toward copper for most bathroom renos, especially if the house already has it. Yeah, PEX is quick and flexible, but I've seen a couple of those crimp rings fail years down the line, usually where someone tried to rush it. Plus, rodents seem to love chewing on PEX in some older homes—had a buddy deal with a small flood because of that. Copper's more work upfront, but it’s basically set-it-and-forget-it once it’s in. Just my two cents.
Copper’s definitely the gold standard for reliability, especially in older homes where you’re already dealing with it. I’ve seen PEX work out fine, but only when every connection is done right—no shortcuts, no cheap fittings. If you’re switching out a tub for a walk-in shower, here’s what I usually recommend:
1. Check what’s already in the walls. If it’s copper and in good shape, just stick with it. Less chance for weird compatibility issues.
2. If you do go with PEX, make sure to use proper support brackets and keep it away from spots where critters might get at it—attics and crawlspaces are notorious for that.
3. Always pressure test before closing up the wall, no matter what material you use. Found a pinhole leak once because I skipped that step... not fun.
Honestly, copper takes more time to sweat joints and all, but I sleep better knowing it’s less likely to spring a leak down the road. PEX is tempting for speed, but if you’re not careful with those crimps or expansion rings, you might be revisiting that wall sooner than you’d like.
Honestly, sweating copper joints is like a rite of passage, but I’ve had my fair share of “oops, that’s not water-tight” moments. PEX is way faster, but I always get nervous about those connections hiding behind the wall. One time I thought I nailed a crimp, only to find out later it was leaking... not my proudest day. Copper’s a pain to work with but at least you can see and test every joint as you go. Guess it comes down to whether you want to spend more time now or risk spending it later.
I totally get where you’re coming from. There’s something reassuring about seeing a shiny copper joint and knowing you tested it right there, torch in hand. I’ve had a few “mystery” PEX leaks myself, and it’s always in the back of my mind—did I really get every crimp perfect, especially when it’s all tucked away behind drywall?
But then, copper has its headaches too. I’ve run into old pipes that just refuse to take solder, or spots where it’s impossible to get the torch in without worrying about scorching something. Ever had a fitting move just as you’re sweating it? That’s a heart-stopper.
Do you ever wonder about long-term reliability? I’ve read mixed stuff about PEX and UV exposure or rodents getting at it, but then again, copper can pit or develop pinhole leaks over time. Kind of feels like a trade-off between speed/convenience and peace of mind. Curious if anyone’s actually had a PEX failure years down the line, or if it’s mostly install errors that bite people later...