PEX vs copper for my basement reroute - went with PEX and kinda regret it

I had to choose between PEX and copper when rerouting my basement water lines last month, and I went with PEX because it was cheaper and easier to install. But now I'm noticing the water pressure feels a bit lower at the upstairs sink, and I'm wondering if the crimp rings are restricting flow somewhere. Has anyone else picked PEX over copper and ended up with weird pressure issues?

2 comments

2 Comments

uma_mitchell833d ago

Tbh I think this is one of those things where people get lured in by the low price tag and forget that cheap upfront usually means something else down the line. Crimp rings can definitely cause issues if they're not sized right or if you overtighten them, especially on smaller diameter runs. Ngl it's like buying a discount mattress and wondering why your back hurts a month later, it's all about the hidden details. I've seen plenty of guys in my neighborhood go PEX for the quick DIY factor and then end up ripping it out after a year because of flow problems or weird smells. Copper is just solid, you know, it's been proven for decades and doesn't have those little plastic weak points. Sometimes the old school way really is the better way, even if it costs more upfront.

walker.alex3d ago

Oh man, this is such a classic trap. It reminds me of how people always pick the cheaper option upfront without thinking about the long term trade offs, like buying a fast charger cable that burns out in three months. The thing with PEX is it works fine for basic setups but the fittings add up and every single one is a potential tight spot for flow. Copper just has that clean open path all the way through, no little plastic collars squeezing the pipe. I bet a lot of folks would save money in the long run if they just paid for copper once and never worried about it again. You think your pressure issue might be from a specific run that's too long or has too many turns?