PEX plumbing has become one of the most popular choices for homeowners in Portland and Central Oregon. It’s flexible, cost-effective, and durable. This makes it a smart alternative to older piping materials like copper or galvanized steel. Whether you're updating a mid-century home in the city or building something new on the edge of town, understanding how PEX works can help you make a better decision for your plumbing system.
Roth has been serving the Portland metro area since 1976. With decades of experience and a trusted local reputation, our team helps homeowners upgrade with confidence. Here are 10 important things we think you should know about PEX plumbing.
What is PEX Plumbing?
PEX stands for cross-linked polyethylene. It's a strong, flexible plastic pipe used in hot and cold-water systems. It’s easy to install, long-lasting, and widely approved for residential use.
Let’s walk through 10 reasons why more plumbers and homeowners are turning to PEX.
Fact 1: Cost-Effective Installation
PEX is usually more affordable than copper, both in material cost and labor. Because it’s flexible, plumbers can install it faster and with fewer fittings. This saves time and reduces the amount of cutting or drilling needed.
In Portland’s diverse housing stock, especially older homes with tight framing, those labor savings can really add up.
Fact 2: Resistance to Corrosion
Unlike metal pipes, PEX won’t rust or corrode over time. That’s especially helpful in Oregon’s damp climate, where moisture can speed up deterioration in traditional plumbing systems.
Fewer corrosion issues also mean better water quality and fewer repairs down the road.
Fact 3: Flexibility and Fewer Fittings
One of PEX’s biggest advantages is how flexible it is. It can bend around corners and weave through joists, reducing the need for elbows and joints.
Fewer fittings not only speed up installation. They also mean fewer potential leak points, which leads to a more reliable system overall.
Fact 4: Freeze Resistance (To a Point)
PEX can expand slightly when water freezes, so it’s more resistant to burst pipes than copper or PVC. That’s a major plus in Oregon, where cold snaps can still catch homes off guard.
But don’t be fooled. PEX isn’t freeze-proof. If pipes are exposed or uninsulated, they can still be damaged in winter. Proper insulation remains just as important.
Fact 5: Improved Water Flow
The inside of PEX pipe is smooth, which helps water move more efficiently. There’s less friction than in some metal pipes, so you get better flow and more consistent pressure.
That can make a noticeable difference in larger homes or multi-story layouts where older systems sometimes struggle to keep up.
Fact 6: Color-Coding for Easy Identification
PEX is color coded. Red is used for hot, blue for cold, and sometimes white or gray for general use. This might seem like a small detail, but it makes maintenance and repairs much easier.
It’s also helpful for homeowners who want a basic understanding of their plumbing layout without digging through guesswork.
Fact 7: Different Types of PEX (A, B, and C)
There are three main types of PEX, and each has its own characteristics.
- PEX-A is the most flexible and handles freezing better than the others.
- PEX-B is more rigid but still very durable and commonly used.
- PEX-C is less common and used in specific applications.
The best type depends on your home, climate, and the installer’s experience with each.
Fact 8: Not Susceptible to Electrolysis
PEX doesn’t conduct electricity, so it avoids the issue of electrolysis. That’s what happens when electrical current moves between dissimilar metals in a plumbing system, leading to corrosion.
In homes with a mix of old and new materials or uncertain grounding, PEX avoids that risk entirely.
Fact 9: Environmentally Friendly
PEX takes less energy to produce than copper, and there’s very little waste during installation. It’s also recyclable in many cases, making it a more sustainable option for homeowners who care about their home’s environmental impact.
Choosing PEX is one way to update your plumbing and feel better about what’s behind your walls.
Fact 10: Proper Installation Matters
PEX is a great product, but like anything in plumbing, how it's installed makes all the difference. Poor fittings, tight bends, or improper securing can lead to long-term issues if not done right.
That’s why Roth takes every job seriously. Our licensed plumbers have years of experience installing PEX systems that last. Whether it’s a full repipe or just part of a bathroom remodel, we know the local codes, the climate, and what it takes to build a system that performs well for years to come.
Ready to Install PEX in Your Home?
PEX has become a top choice for a reason. It’s efficient, affordable, and well-suited for homes across the Portland and Central Oregon areas. Whether you’re replacing old galvanized lines or planning plumbing for a new addition, PEX can give you the flexibility and performance you’re looking for.
Roth stands out thanks to decades of experience, deep local knowledge, and a team of certified technicians who take pride in doing the job right. Our white glove approach means we treat your home like it’s our own. From the first estimate to the final inspection, we’re here to make sure your system is built to last.
If you’re ready to explore whether PEX is right for your home, schedule a service with us today.
