⚡ Quick Answer
PEX offers significant advantages for Toronto homes: freeze resistance (expands without bursting), 30-50% lower cost than copper repiping, immunity to corrosion and pinhole leaks, and faster installation. PEX-A is preferred for its flexibility; PEX-B offers cost savings. Ideal for repiping older Toronto homes with failing copper or galvanized pipes.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Freeze protection: PEX expands up to 3x diameter without bursting—crucial for Toronto winters
- Cost savings: PEX repiping costs $6,000-$10,000 vs $10,000-$15,000 for copper
- No corrosion: Immune to pinhole leaks and scale buildup from Toronto water
- Faster install: 1-2 days vs 3-5 days for copper repiping
- 50+ year lifespan: Proven durability since 1970s in European applications
What Is PEX Pipe?
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a flexible plastic tubing that has become the dominant choice for residential water distribution in North America. The cross-linking process creates a durable, heat-resistant material that combines the flexibility of plastic with the longevity of metal pipes.
First developed in Europe in the 1960s, PEX has been used successfully since the 1970s in heating systems and, since the 1990s, for potable water. Today, over 60% of new Canadian homes use PEX for water distribution—and that number is growing.
Top Benefits of PEX for Toronto Homes
1. Freeze Resistance
This is the #1 advantage for Toronto homeowners. PEX can expand up to 3 times its diameter when water freezes inside—and return to original size when thawed. Copper and CPVC crack under the same conditions, leading to catastrophic water damage.
During Toronto's 2014 polar vortex (lows of -31°C), plumbers saw dramatically fewer burst pipes in PEX-plumbed homes compared to copper. While PEX isn't freeze-proof, it's far more forgiving of temperature extremes.
2. Corrosion Immunity
Toronto's water, while safe, is moderately corrosive to copper—pH averages 7.4-7.8 with chloramine disinfection. PEX is completely immune to:
- Pinhole leaks from internal corrosion
- Scale buildup that restricts flow
- Electrolysis at metal connections
- Green patina and exterior oxidation
3. Lower Installation Cost
PEX costs 30-50% less than copper for a full repipe project:
- Material cost: PEX tubing runs $0.50-$2.00/foot vs $3.00-$8.00/foot for copper
- Labor savings: No torches, solder, or flux—faster installation
- Fewer fittings: PEX bends around corners without elbows
- Fewer drywall cuts: PEX can snake through existing holes more easily
4. Quieter Operation
PEX virtually eliminates water hammer—the banging noise when valves close suddenly. The flexible material absorbs shock rather than transmitting it. Homes with copper plumbing and quick-closing dishwasher or washing machine valves often have significant water hammer that disappears after PEX conversion.
5. Chemical Resistance
PEX won't react with aggressive water or soil conditions. Unlike copper (which corrodes in acidic conditions) or galvanized steel (which rusts), PEX performs consistently regardless of water chemistry.
PEX-A vs PEX-B: Which Is Better?
Not all PEX is created equal. Here's how the main types compare:
| Feature | PEX-A (Engel) | PEX-B (Silane) |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Most flexible, easy to work with | Stiffer, requires more fittings |
| Kink Recovery | Self-heals with heat gun | Kinked sections must be cut out |
| Fitting System | Expansion fittings (no flow restriction) | Crimp or clamp fittings (slight restriction) |
| Cost | 15-20% more expensive | More economical |
| Chlorine Resistance | Good | Better |
| Best For | Tight spaces, renovation work | New construction, long runs |
💡 Our Recommendation
For Toronto repipe projects, we typically use PEX-A with expansion fittings. The added flexibility is invaluable when routing through existing walls, and expansion fittings create a more reliable connection with zero flow restriction. The cost difference is minimal for residential projects.
PEX vs Copper: Full Comparison
| Factor | PEX | Copper |
|---|---|---|
| Material Cost | $0.50-$2.00/ft | $3.00-$8.00/ft |
| Full Repipe Cost | $6,000-$10,000 | $10,000-$15,000 |
| Installation Time | 1-2 days | 3-5 days |
| Freeze Resistance | Excellent (expands 3x) | Poor (bursts) |
| Corrosion Risk | None | Moderate (pinhole leaks) |
| Lifespan | 50+ years | 40-70 years |
| Resale Appeal | Neutral to positive | Slight premium perceived |
| Recyclability | Limited | Highly recyclable |
When NOT to Use PEX
- Outdoor exposed applications — PEX degrades with UV exposure; must be sleeved if exposed
- Hot water heater connections — First 18" from water heater should be copper or approved metal connector
- Areas with rodent problems — Mice and rats can chew through PEX (rare but documented)
- Chemical exposure — Not for use with petroleum products or certain solvents
PEX Installation Methods
Home-Run (Manifold) System
Each fixture gets its own dedicated line from a central manifold. Advantages: individual shut-off controls, no pressure loss at multiple fixtures, easy to isolate problems. Best for new construction or full repipes.
Trunk-and-Branch
Similar to traditional copper layout—main lines branch to fixtures. Uses less material than home-run but shares the pipe between fixtures. Better for targeted replacements or budget constraints.
Ready to Switch to PEX?
Water Pro offers free repipe estimates for Toronto homeowners. We'll assess your current plumbing and recommend the best solution.
📞 Call (647) 554-4356Free Estimates • 90-Day Guarantee • Licensed & Insured
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PEX better than copper for Toronto homes?
PEX offers significant advantages for Toronto homes: freeze resistance (expands up to 3x without bursting), lower material and labor costs (30-50% savings), corrosion immunity, and quieter water flow. Copper remains better for exposed applications and some prefer it for resale appeal. PEX is now used in 60%+ of new construction.
How much does PEX repiping cost in Toronto?
PEX repiping in Toronto costs $6,000-$10,000 for a typical 2,000 sq ft home, compared to $10,000-$15,000 for copper. A typical home can be repiped in 1-2 days with PEX vs 3-5 days with copper.
What's the difference between PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C?
PEX-A (Engel method) is most flexible and has shape memory. PEX-B (Silane method) is stiffer, slightly less expensive, more resistant to chlorine. PEX-C (E-beam method) is least common, prone to cracking. Most Toronto plumbers prefer PEX-A for its workability or PEX-B for cost-effectiveness.
How long does PEX pipe last?
PEX pipe is rated for 50+ years under normal conditions. It's been used in Europe since the 1970s with excellent track record. Unlike copper, PEX doesn't corrode or develop pinhole leaks from water chemistry.
Mike Thompson
Master Plumber & Drain Specialist
25+ years plumbing experience in Toronto. Certified PEX installer with 100+ successful repipe projects across the GTA.