Pex A Vs Pex B – What Is Pex Pipe?

PEX A vs PEX B – What Is PEX Pipe?

If you’ve been researching ways to upgrade or replace your home’s plumbing, you’ve probably come across the term PEX piping. Over the past few decades, PEX has become one of the most popular plumbing materials for both new construction and repiping older homes. But not all PEX pipes are the same—there are several types, including PEX-A and PEX-B, and each offers its own advantages. Understanding the differences between them can help you make the best choice for your home, especially if you’re planning a plumbing project in Brevard County, FL.

What Is PEX Pipe?

PEX stands for cross-linked polyethylene, a flexible plastic material that’s used to carry water throughout a home. Unlike rigid materials such as copper or PVC, PEX is flexible, resistant to corrosion, and able to expand slightly if water freezes inside. It’s also quieter, easier to install, and less likely to burst under pressure. Because of these benefits, PEX has largely replaced copper and CPVC as the go-to material for residential plumbing systems.

There are three main types of PEX pipe—PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C. The difference between them comes down to how the pipe is manufactured and how the polyethylene molecules are “cross-linked.” This process affects flexibility, durability, and how the pipe handles heat and pressure.

PEX A vs PEX B: The Key Differences

While both PEX-A and PEX-B are great for most home plumbing systems, they aren’t identical. The main differences come down to flexibility, installation method, and resistance to certain conditions.

PEX-A is made using the Engel method, which creates the highest level of cross-linking—around 80%. This gives PEX-A its signature flexibility and makes it the most pliable type of PEX pipe on the market. Because it can bend easily, plumbers can install it with fewer fittings and turns, reducing potential leak points. PEX-A can also repair itself in freezing temperatures by expanding and returning to shape when it thaws. However, PEX-A is generally more expensive than other types and can be more sensitive to chemical exposure in water systems.

PEX-B, on the other hand, is made using the Silane (moisture-cure) method, which results in slightly less cross-linking—around 65% to 70%. This makes it a bit stiffer than PEX-A, but it’s still far more flexible than copper or PVC. PEX-B is more affordable, highly durable, and resistant to chlorine, making it an excellent choice for most Florida homes with municipal water. The only downside is that it’s less flexible in tight spaces and may kink if bent too sharply.

If you’re unsure which to choose, many plumbing experts recommend PEX-A for complex retrofits and remodels and PEX-B for straightforward repipes or new construction.

Installation and Cost Considerations

PEX piping is known for being faster and easier to install than traditional copper plumbing, which can save homeowners money on labor. Both PEX-A and PEX-B use crimp, clamp, or expansion fittings to connect joints, but the type of fitting differs slightly between them.

PEX-A typically uses an expansion tool with special fittings that allow the pipe to expand and then contract tightly around the connection. This method creates a strong seal but requires a more expensive tool. PEX-B is installed using crimp or clamp rings, which are more widely available and less expensive. For most plumbing professionals, the choice comes down to experience and preference.

When it comes to cost, PEX-A generally costs 15–25% more than PEX-B, but the installation time may be shorter because it bends around corners more easily. The total cost of a repiping job will depend on the size of your home, water fixture count, and accessibility, but in general, you can expect PEX-B to be the more budget-friendly option.

If you’d like to see cost examples, Forbes Home and HomeAdvisor both provide current national averages for repiping projects.

Which Is Better for Florida Homes?

In places like Melbourne, Palm Bay, and Viera, FL, where high humidity and hard water are common, PEX piping has proven to be an excellent choice. Most local plumbing companies recommend PEX-B for whole-home repipes because of its durability, cost-effectiveness, and resistance to chlorine. However, PEX-A can be worth the investment if your home has many turns, long pipe runs, or limited access behind walls.

Both types perform exceptionally well in Florida’s climate, unlike older materials that are prone to corrosion and scaling. Whether you choose PEX-A or PEX-B, you’ll enjoy quieter operation, better water pressure, and peace of mind knowing your plumbing system can last 50 years or more.

Frequently Asked Questions About PEX Pipe

Is PEX pipe better than copper?

For most homes, yes. PEX is more flexible, faster to install, and resistant to corrosion. Copper is still great for certain applications, but PEX is generally more affordable and low-maintenance.

Can PEX be used for hot and cold water?

Yes, all types of PEX can handle both hot and cold water lines. Red PEX is typically used for hot water, blue for cold, and white or gray for either.

Does PEX pipe freeze?

PEX can expand slightly if water inside it freezes, which helps prevent bursting. However, it’s still best to insulate exposed pipes in colder areas.

What’s the lifespan of PEX pipe?

When properly installed, PEX can last 50 years or more. PEX-A and PEX-B both resist corrosion, scaling, and pitting that often damage metal pipes.

Can I mix PEX-A and PEX-B in the same house?

Yes, you can, but the fittings must be compatible. Always follow manufacturer recommendations or consult a licensed plumber before mixing types.

Both Pex-A And Pex-B Are Reliableand Long-Lasting

Both PEX-A and PEX-B are reliable, long-lasting plumbing solutions that outperform traditional materials in flexibility and cost. The best choice depends on your home’s layout, your budget, and your plumber’s experience with each type. For most Brevard County homeowners, PEX-B offers the best balance of performance and affordability, while PEX-A is ideal for complex renovations or remodels where flexibility is key.

If you’re considering a plumbing upgrade or whole-house repipe, talk with a trusted local expert. A licensed plumber can inspect your home, explain your options, and recommend the best type of PEX for your specific needs.

What’s Next?

Doug Herrell Plumbing is a trusted leader in Brevard County, Florida, specializing in slab leak detection and re-piping services. Call us today for a free estimate before a slab leak causes unnecessary damage to your property.

About Doug Herrell Plumbing – lic#CFC 048487

Doug Herrell Plumbing has been Brevard County’s source for plumbing services since 1980. We are a family owned and operated business and take tremendous pride in providing honest and reliable plumbing services at an affordable price.

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Serving Melbourne, Palm Bay, Viera, Suntree, Titusville, Merritt Island, Melbourne Beach, Indialantic, Indian Harbour Beach, Cape Canaveral, Satellite Beach, Rockledge, West Melbourne, Cocoa, and Cocoa Beach.