ToolBase Services
The Home Building Industry's Technical Information Resource

Back to Standard View
Building SystemsHome Building TopicsDesign & Construction GuidesBest PracticesConstruction Methods

Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Water Supply Piping

A high-temperature, flexible plastic (polymer) pipe

Asdal Builders: Making Zero Energy History
NAHB Research Center aids builder with first known zero-energy remodel in the United States.
Web Site

Design Guide - Residential PEX Water Supply Plumbing Systems
(PDF)
This design guide provides information necessary to design and install PEX plumbing systems.
Web Site

FAQ on PEX
PPFA FAQ’s on Cross-Linked Polyethylene Water Supply Piping
Web Site

Fixture Flow Rate Comparison Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Piping and Copper Tubing
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) and copper piping were tested at varying source pressures and two maximum runs; 60 and 100 ft, to determine if PEX and copper piping systems will deliver sufficient volumetric flow rates to the plumbing fixtures when using the same nominal size tubing.
Web Site

ORNL: Evaluation of Residential Hot Water Distribution Systems by Numeric Simulation
The goal of this project was to simulate and compare the energy and water performance, economics, and barriers to use of various domestic hot water distribution systems in new and existing California residences, and to evaluate the potential statewide impact of the use of more efficient hot water distribution systems.
Web Site

PATH Concept Home
The PATH Concept Home combines innovative products with traditional design elements to create a home of the future. Technologies include: Home-run plumbing system, tankless water heater, air admittance vents, factory-engineered wall and floor panels, panelized ICF (insulating concrete forms), alternative insulation, insulated vinyl siding, and more. View the web site or download the Concept Home Design Guide (PDF).
Web Site

PEX Information by PPFA
PEX piping has been used in hot and cold water distribution systems and for hydronic radiant heating in Europe for many years. Introduced into the United States in the 1980's, PEX has replaced polybutylene (PB) as the most widely-used flexible plumbing piping.
Web Site

PEX Piping: Speeding Installation
Keith Peterson didn't want to use copper for his plumbing because of the taste it can leave in the water. He selected cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping for its ease of installation and cost savings, and even tied a REHAU fire suppression system into his cold water pipes.
Web Site

Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association
800 Roosevelt Road, Bldg C, Suite 20
Glen Ellyn IL 60137
(630) 858-6540
Web Site

Plastics Pipe Institute PPI
High Temperature Plastics Division (HTPD)
1825 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 680
Washington DC 20009
(202) 462-9607
Web Site

PPFA Publications
PPFA has a publication page with numerous PDF publications on plastic pipes of all types.
Web Site

TechPractices: Cameron Park Colonia
Cameron Park Colonia: PATH redesigned framing for standard home design of the Community Development Corporation of Brownsville, Texas, reducing the need for a substantial amount of lumber while still meeting the International Residential Code in force throughout Texas.
Web Site

This Old House: PEX Water Supply Piping
This video explains why PEX may represent the future of water supply piping.
Web Site

ToolBase TechNote: Copper Pinhole Leaks
Web Site

ToolBase TechNote: PEX Performance Data
This TechNote is intended to provide guidance for builders considering the use of PEX in residential plumbing systems. Homeowners working with a custom home builder or serving as a general contractor on a home construction project may also find this information useful.
Web Site

ToolBase TechSpecs: Home-Run Plumbing Systems
(PDF)
Web Site

Disclaimer: The information on the system, product or material presented herein is provided for informational purposes only. The technical descriptions, details, requirements, and limitations expressed do not constitute an endorsement, approval, or acceptance of the subject matter by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD/FHA), The Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH), or any PATH-affiliated Federal agency or private company. There are no warranties, either expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy or completeness of this information. Full reproduction, without modification, is permissible.