PEX vs. Copper Pipe: Which Is Better for Your Metro Detroit Home?

The debate between PEX and copper is one of the most common questions we get from homeowners planning a repipe or remodel. Here's our honest assessment after installing both materials in hundreds of Metro Detroit homes.

Copper has been the standard for residential water supply for decades. It's durable, has a long track record, and is resistant to UV degradation. It's also more expensive than PEX — significantly so — and requires soldering, which adds labor time. Copper is also susceptible to pinhole corrosion in areas with aggressive water chemistry, which is a real issue in parts of Metro Detroit.

PEX — cross-linked polyethylene — is flexible, freeze-resistant (it can expand and contract without cracking), and significantly less expensive than copper. It's faster to install, which reduces labor costs. PEX-A, the highest grade, is the most flexible and has the best freeze resistance. It's what we use for virtually all residential repipe work.

The main limitation of PEX is that it cannot be used outdoors or in direct sunlight — UV degrades the material. For exterior applications, copper or CPVC is still the right choice.

Our standard for residential repipe work is PEX-A with expansion fittings — not crimp or clamp fittings. Expansion fittings create a stronger, more reliable connection and are less prone to failure over time. The material cost is slightly higher, but the reliability is worth it.

If you're planning a repipe or remodel and want to know which material is right for your situation, call us at 313-427-4780. We'll give you a straight answer.