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Can you put PEX pipe in concrete?
Yes, PEX pipe can be installed under a concrete slab. Since PEX pipe is supplied in coils, installation can be completed in one continuous length without the need for extra fittings. PEX pipe can also be encased within a slab, which is commonly used for radiant floor heating.
How long does PEX last in concrete?
PEX has an expected life of 25 to 40 years.
How deep should PEX be in concrete?
The top of tubes currently range 1-1/4″ to 2″ from the expected slab surface. The slab will be 5″. I’ve read that radiant tubing should be placed nearer to the surface and 1″ to 2″ is recommended.
Do you have to sleeve PEX through concrete?
2 Answers. You’d install PEX without sheath inside the slab for underfloor heating only. Otherwise it should be sheathed to allow it to comfortably expand depending on temperature variations, it also makes it possible to change the pipe if it bursts due to freezing, or bad quality pipe for example.
Is PEX OK for underground?
Some plumbing contractors may be surprised to know that PEX is approved for use in underground as well as in-slab applications. Installing PEX pipe in the slab or underground can help reduce costs because there are no hangers required and less ladder time for installers (adding to installation efficiencies).
What are the disadvantages of PEX?
PEX Plumbing Disadvantages PEX may leach BPA and other toxic chemicals. PEX is extremely sensitive to UV light. PEX can be damaged by chemicals and pests. PEX can’t be installed in high heat areas. PEX is semi-permeable, which means liquid can enter the pipe.
Can SharkBite fittings be buried in concrete?
It’s time to set the record straight: Yes, SharkBite brass push fittings can be used underground.
Can SharkBite fittings be used in concrete?
SharkBite fittings in concrete Do not allow joints within the slab. Use a continuous length of SharkBite PEX Pipe within the slab and be sure to check for leaks before pouring concrete.
How many feet of PEX tubing do I need?
Divide the length by the recommended maximum loop length, which is 250 feet for 3/8-inch PEX, 300 feet for 1/2-inch PEX and 400 feet for 5/8-inch PEX. Consult the manufacturer for the maximum recommended loop lengths for other PEX tubing sizes.
What is the OD of 1/2 PEX?
Dimensional data and specifications PEX Tubing size (CTS/Nominal) Outside Diameter (OD) Weight lbs/100ft 1/2″ 0.625″ 5.80 5/8″ 0.750″ 8.38 3/4″ 0.875″ 11.00 1″ 1.125″ 17.06.
Can you run PEX inside PVC pipe?
A typical 3″ PVC sweep ell will have somewhere between 24 and 36″ of radius. The only issue, then, is whether you can pull it. That will depend on the number of bends, number of tubes, and length of the run. 1″ pex will have no problem making it through 3″.
Should you insulate PEX pipe?
Does PEX need to be insulated? You should insulate PEX piping exposed outdoors or inside uninsulated spaces like a basement, attic, or crawl space. While PEX pipes can and will freeze in cold weather, they withstand cold temperatures better than rigid pipes like copper, PVC, or CPVC, which can freeze and burst.
How do you protect PEX from UV rays?
Manufacturers add UV stabilizers or carbon black into the HDPE compound that is the building block of PEX before it is extruded, or manufacturers can extrude UV-blocking and absorbing barrier layers to exterior of the PEX tubing wall during manufacturing.
How deep should I bury PEX?
PEX pipes and all underground piping should be buried at least 12” to 18” below the frost line to protect the pipes from freezing. The frost line refers to the furthest depth underground groundwater begins to freeze, also called the frost depth. In colder zones, the frost line can be three to four feet down.
How long will PEX last underground?
PEX has a life expectancy of 40-50 years, made possible by its durable and non-corrosive materials. Burial also reduces sun exposure, which would otherwise degrade the piping. Additionally, PEX tubing materials allow for expansion, making them resistant to freezing/cracking underground.
How do you connect PEX underground?
Place the pex tubing in the trench. Cover the tubing with a couple inches of sand. Refill the trench with soil. If you are worried about the pex tubing getting crushed or dug into, you can push the pex tubing into a piece of electrical conduit that will act as a protective metal sheath.
Can I pour concrete over PVC pipe?
NO. you should never pour concrete on any pvc conduit or water pipes unless you wrap the pipes with a form wrap to allow expansion and contraction and any penetration thru the concrete or install a 4in or 6in sleeve under the slab to pass the pipes though.
How long does PEX pipe last?
Additionally, long-term testing programs on PEX have shown that it has a potential lifespan of more than 100 years. So, while copper systems may have to be re-piped every few years or decades due to corrosion and pinhole leaks, a PEX system can last 10 times longer — or more.
Is PEX OK for drinking water?
The inner pipe for drinking water is made of a plastic called cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). There are no health risks associated with drinking water from PEX pipes. A few types of PEX-pipe may cause prolonged undesirable taste and odour if the water remains in pipes over time.
