HomeKnowledgePEX Tubing — Type B Cross-Linked Polyethylene (Plumbing Supply)
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PEX Tubing — Type B Cross-Linked Polyethylene (Plumbing Supply)

Updated Mar 25, 2026
Flexible plastic tubing for hot and cold water supply lines. Replaces copper in most residential applications. 25-year warranty. Freeze-resistant. Available in 3/8 through 1 inch. Red (hot), blue (cold), white (either).

PEX-B is manufactured using the silane (moisture cure) method and is the most common PEX type in residential plumbing. Advantages over copper: 60-70% lower material cost, faster installation (fewer fittings), freeze resistance (expands without bursting), no corrosion, quiet (no water hammer), flexible (fewer joints = fewer leak points). Connections: crimp rings (copper), clamp rings (stainless), expansion fittings (ProPEX/Uponor), push-fit (SharkBite). Maximum temperature: 200°F. Maximum pressure: 160 psi at 73°F. UV sensitive — cannot be exposed to sunlight (6 month max during construction). Not suitable for outdoor above-ground use. Approved under IPC and UPC. Some jurisdictions still restrict PEX — verify local code acceptance. Cannot be used within 18 inches of water heater (use copper stub-out). CSI 22 11 16.

TAGS
pexplumbingwater-supplytubingresidentialcsi-22
DETAILS
csi division
22 - Plumbing
environmental
{"recyclability":"limited","sustainability_grade":"B"}
material class
supply_piping
cost benchmarks
[{"date":"2025-Q4","unit":"LF","region":"us_national","cost_low":0.35,"cost_mid":0.55,"cost_high":0.85}]
physical properties
{"max_temp_f":200,"freeze_resistant":true,"max_pressure_psi":160}
applicable standards
["ASTM F876","ASTM F877","NSF 61"]
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