DIY PEX Pipe Installation

It may be new in the residential plumbing, but PEX tubing has already proven itself. A layer of polyethylene on the outside, aluminum at the middle, and polyethylene again on the inside coating. It makes PEX pipes durable yet flexible than copper pipes. It comes in rolls and can easily cut to any length that you can handle yourself whenever you need some plumbing system remodeling. All you need are the right tools and a bit plumbing skills.

1. Cut the PEX - Measure the length of the pipe you need to replace. Then cut this length on your PEX using a PEX tubing cutter. You should not use any other cutting tool as you must cut the edges straightly and smoothly.

2. Apply crimps - This should be done right because the improper placement of crimp ring may cause a leak. Tuck copper crimp ring onto the cut end of PEX pipe. Then place the tube on the shoulder on the fitting. Slide the crimp ring up with a slip-joint pliers or your fingers. It must be placed ⅛ or ¼ inch away from the end of the pipe. To put the crimp ring tightly in this position, use a crimping tool then press it hard as much as possible at a 90-degree angle.
3. Ensure the connection - To guarantee that the fitting and the PEX are connected correctly, use a Go/No-Go Gauge. A properly attach crimp would let the Go-gauge slide with ease. On the other hand, the No-Go gauge is an indication that the tubing must be recut and rejoin once again.  You must have made one or more of this mistakes;

• The crimping tool does not fully cover the crimp ring.
• The crimper is not uniform.
• The ring is placed over the end of the tubing.
• Tubing is not smoothly cut and does not fully cover ribs of fitting.   

4. Install the piping - Unlike PVC and copper tubes, PEX pipes could not be placed straightly. PEX shrinks 1 inch for every 10 degrees of temperature change. Counteract it by making an arc in the tubing that is eight times more than its diameter. There should also straps and hangers that support the PEX. Support must be at every 32 inches if it would be put alongside a joist. On the other hand, when it will be position atop then the support should be at every 6 inches. But do not put the hangers too tight that it limit the movement of the PEX. Always place a little space for contraction. 

Here are the tips for PEX installation:

• Make notes of any obstacle in framing and routing of pipes.
• You should also have a detailed drawing of your layout.
• PEX can be run through holes drilled in floor joists and inside the floor frame so they can be out of the way.
• Make a list of all plumbing supplies and tools you need before going to the hardware store.
• You could also contact plumbers in Knoxville if you are not confident doing it yourself.