Frozen pipes can split open and cause severe water damage that's costly to repair. One way to minimize or even avoid this frustrating event is to use the best pipes in freezing temperatures. Let's help you out by discussing the three common pipe materials and their ability to withstand freezing conditions.
Copper
Copper pipes lose heat quickly. Additionally, the thin pipe walls don't expand to accommodate swelling frozen water. As a result, copper pipes are more prone to bursting in freezing conditions than the other two pipe materials.
PVC/CPVC
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) are from the same plastic-pipes family. CPVC pipes are stronger and can handle higher water temperatures than PVC pipes. CPVC pipes are less rigid and have thicker walls than copper pipes. CPVC pipes expand slightly, so it won't burst as fast as copper. Nevertheless, it's vulnerable to frozen weather. CPVC pipes will crack if they endure low temperatures for very long.
PEX
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) has the best chance of surviving freezing temperatures compared to copper and PVC/CPVC pipe materials. The chemical structure of PEX allows it to stretch farther to accommodate the water in the pipe as it freezes and expands. PEX pipes can thaw and contract back to their original dimensions without rupturing.
PEX piping is better at withstanding pressure increases and accommodating frozen water in the winter than the alternatives. Nevertheless, it can burst if there's considerable swelling and pressure from frozen water. There are several ways to make PEX and other plumbing materials more resistant to freezing, including:
Insulating the pipes, especially those in attics, basements, and those close to outside walls
Sealing leaks that could allow cold air into your home
Shutting off the water to your outdoor faucets and disconnecting and storing garden hoses
Opening cabinet doors to let warm air reach your pipes
While PEX is the best pipe material in freezing conditions, it may not be ideal for every plumbing application in your home. A local plumber can help you choose the best pipe materials for different applications. Contact us at Air Assurance for all your plumbing needs in the Broken Arrow area.