Not sure if I totally agree on the PEX with crimp rings always being the best route. I used it for a basement reno last year, and yeah, it was quick and way less hassle than sweating copper. But I’ve had a couple of those crimp connections start to seep after a year or two — not full-on leaks, just enough to be annoying. Ended up redoing a couple joints with the cinch (clamp) style rings and haven’t had trouble since. If you’re set on PEX, might be worth looking into the cinch clamps instead of crimp rings, especially if you don’t already have the crimp tool.
On showerheads, I get wanting more than a trickle, but honestly, some of those newer 1.5 gpm models do better than older 2.0s if you pick the right brand. I swapped out a “high flow” cheap one for a pricier low-flow model and it actually felt like more pressure somehow... maybe it’s just better engineering these days. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront saves headaches later—whether it’s fixtures or fittings.
Yeah, I’ve seen those crimp rings act up too, especially if you’re not super careful about getting the tool square on the fitting. I’ve had a couple callbacks where the crimp was just a hair off and it started to seep after a while. The cinch clamps are a bit more forgiving in tight spots, and honestly, I’ve started using them more often for repairs. Less fussing around with the tool, and you don’t have to worry about getting the exact right size for every brand of PEX.
On the showerhead thing, totally agree—some of those “low flow” models actually feel better than the old ones. I put in a Moen 1.75 gpm for a client last month and they swore it felt stronger than their old 2.5. I think it’s all about the way they design the spray these days. Sometimes spending a few extra bucks up front saves you from having to swap out junky fixtures down the road... learned that one the hard way after a few warranty calls.
Had the same issue with crimp rings last year when I swapped out a leaking valve. Thought I had it lined up, but apparently not—ended up with a slow drip behind the wall. Total pain to fix after the fact. Switched to cinch clamps since then and haven’t looked back. They’re just easier to deal with, especially in those awkward spots where you can barely get your hands in.
On showerheads, I used to think low flow meant weak flow, but that’s not really true anymore. Put in a Delta 1.75 gpm for our main bath and honestly, it feels better than the old one that was supposed to be “high pressure.” Guess it’s all about the engineering now. I’d rather pay a bit more for something solid than mess around with cheap stuff that needs replacing in a year or two. Learned that lesson after buying a bargain faucet—ended up replacing it twice before just getting a decent one.
Funny you mention cinch clamps—I was stubborn about sticking with crimp rings for years, but after fighting with them in a crawlspace once, I finally gave in. Never looked back either. Those tight spots are just brutal otherwise.
And yeah, the low flow showerhead thing surprised me too.
It’s wild how much difference good design makes now. I used to roll my eyes at the price tags on some fixtures, but after replacing a “budget” kitchen faucet twice in three years, I’m with you—sometimes it’s worth paying up front to avoid headaches later.“Put in a Delta 1.75 gpm for our main bath and honestly, it feels better than the old one that was supposed to be ‘high pressure.’”
I used to think all those “premium” fixtures were just marketing hype, but after swapping out a cheap bathroom faucet that started leaking at the base after 18 months, I’m convinced. The hassle of crawling under the sink twice in two years was enough for me. And yeah, cinch clamps are a game changer in tight spots—crimp rings are fine until you’re wedged between joists with barely any room to swing a tool. Sometimes paying more up front really does save you time and sanity down the line.
