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MaggieH

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Posts:1

01/05/2008 8:57 PM
Hello. We own an older home that now requires repiping of the plumbing system and are trying to decide what material is best to use. The choices seem to be copper pipe, cPVC pipe, or PEX pipe. One question is: Is the use of PEX within code in Montgomery County, MD? Does the County specify preferred materials in repiping? If so, please advise. Our decision to repipe the house is based on the pinhole leaks that have occurred over the last several years. However, we have been informed that the WSSC has changed additives in the water so as to reduce or eliminate pinhole leaks. Is this true, and if so, are pinhole leaks of any further concern? Thanks for your help. Margaret E. Holmes 301-897-5396 blu_azure@verizon.net

ReadyToRetire User is Offline

Registered Users

Posts:185

01/08/2008 4:49 PM
Margaret, I've never used or seen it applied, but I recall reading of a new system that lines existing pipe. If I recall correctly, they isolate the system and drain it, pump a "plastic" fluid through the system, empty it, and cure it. I don't recall if what I read was describing an experimental system or a commercially available product. And I have no idea of its cost. But, it might be better than the mess that re-piping would create. But I'd sure read the warranty (grin). Good luck, Larry

Eric Moldenhauer User is Offline

Registered Users

Posts:20

01/09/2008 12:25 AM
Just my 2-bits here; Don't know anything about PEX, but, lining existing piping with a liquid poly (or otherwise) sounds very scary. I'm thinking of water flow problems due to undersized/plugged piping caused by irregular thickness of internal coating (if the process worked at all). Think about this: if the piping won't hold water, would you expect a paper-thin liner to withstand pressure/abrasion (all water contains some abrasive mineral/sedimentary material). If you doubt my words, read about/talk with someone knowledgeable with hydrodymamics, typical domestic water systems, and corrosion of piping. Corrosion doesn't stop just because it got covered up. I would go with a sure thing. No subsitute for new pipes. Not to step on toes, but, even if someone can give documented/proven results for a pipe lining, I wouldn't consider it. Not to mention, how good can a warranty for this type of process be? If it screws up a part of/all of your house will they replace your piping and pay for wall/ceiling board work? One other thing: have you ever experienced ruptured/burst water pipes? Liners won't stop this either. Leaking pipes are weakened and ready to FAIL. Regarding replacement piping types: PVC is in-expensive, durable, fast and easy...even for the weekend DIY'er. The bulk of of the work and money would be in your wall/ceiling board work.

efittery

Registered Users

Posts:1

01/16/2008 12:38 PM
I re-piped my copper plumbing in my condo with pex stuff. The process was fairly simple, but 1. Findinging a plumber with PEX experience may be difficult. 2. Buying a PEX expanding tool can be done on ebay.com - I bought two and later sold them for about what I paid for them. 3. If you live in a cold climate, do not run your PEX tubing through the attic. If I had it to do over again, I would use ACME's SharkBite fittings. They allow you to connect PVC, copper or PEX piping with no soldiering. check out www.cashacme.com and take a look at the SHARKBITE products. Good luck

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