The use of PEX (cross-linked polyethylene)
tubing has become common
in radiant floor heating systems.
Although PEX manufacturers have also
been promoting the plastic tubing for
domestic hot and cold water pipes, the
use of PEX for such potable water pipes
is still relatively rare. According to the
March 2001 issue of the plumbing magazine
Reeves Journal, 89.6% of surveyed
plumbers said that copper is the piping
material they most frequently install for
new potable water distribution, versus
only 7% who usually install PEX. In
some areas of the country, the preference
for copper is even stronger. “Close to 98
percent of the pipe we sell for potable
water is copper,” says Kevin Morrison,
outside salesperson at F.W.