Type A vs B PEX

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Type A vs Type B PEX: Which Is Better for Your Home Repipe?

When planning a home repipe, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is whether to choose Type A vs Type B PEX. Both are durable, efficient, and widely approved plumbing materials that have largely replaced copper and galvanized steel. However, subtle differences in flexibility, cost, and installation method can impact performance and longevity.

At Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter Inc., we’ve helped homeowners across San Mateo County and Santa Clara County navigate this choice. Below, we’ll explain how Type A vs Type B PEX compare so you can make an informed decision about your home’s plumbing system.

What Is PEX and Why It’s So Popular

PEX stands for cross-linked polyethylene, a flexible and durable plastic piping material. It’s designed to transport water safely and efficiently while resisting corrosion, scale, and leaks.

Unlike rigid copper or PVC, PEX is flexible, which means fewer fittings and faster installations — ideal for retrofitting older homes. It’s also far more resistant to freezing and bursting.

There are three main types of PEX:

• PEX-A

• PEX-B

• PEX-C

Each type is created through a unique cross-linking process that affects its flexibility and strength. But when it comes to whole-house repiping, most plumbers — including our experts at Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter Inc. — recommend Type A or Type B PEX.

Type A vs Type B PEX: Key Differences Explained

The key difference between Type A vs Type B PEX lies in how the tubing is manufactured.

PEX-A (Engel Method)

PEX-A is made using the Engel method, where cross-linking occurs during extrusion. This gives it a higher cross-link density (around 80–85%), resulting in maximum flexibility.

Because of its softness, PEX-A can bend tightly around corners and can even repair itself if kinked — a feature that makes it ideal for complex retrofits. It’s compatible with the expansion fitting system, which expands the pipe to fit over a fitting before shrinking back into place, creating a secure, leak-proof seal.

PEX-B (Silane Method)

PEX-B is manufactured using the Silane method, which completes cross-linking after extrusion. It has slightly less cross-link density (65–70%) and therefore feels stiffer.

PEX-B typically uses a crimp or clamp connection system with metal rings that secure fittings in place. Although it’s less flexible, PEX-B offers superior resistance to chlorine and oxidation, which can make it more durable in certain municipal water systems.

Installation Methods for Type A vs Type B PEX

PEX-A: Expansion Fittings

PEX-A uses expansion fittings, such as the Uponor ProPEX system. The pipe is stretched using a specialized tool, allowing the fitting to slide in before the pipe contracts back to form a tight seal.

Advantages of PEX-A installation:

• Larger internal diameter means better water flow

• Self-healing from minor kinks (use a heat gun to fix)

• Fewer fittings required, reducing leak risks

• Excellent for tight, complex spaces

Drawbacks:

• More expensive fittings and tools

• Not as chlorine resistant as PEX-B

• Requires experienced installers

PEX-B: Crimp and Clamp Fittings

PEX-B uses crimp rings or stainless-steel clamps to attach fittings. This is a simpler and more cost-effective process, making it popular among plumbing contractors.

Advantages of PEX-B installation:

• Lower material and labor costs

• Superior chlorine and oxidation resistance

• Widely available parts and tools

Drawbacks:

• Stiffer pipe means more fittings needed

• Cannot self-heal from kinks

• Slightly smaller internal diameter reduces flow

Flexibility and Freeze Resistance in Type A vs Type B PEX

One of the biggest distinctions in Type A vs Type B PEX is flexibility.

• PEX-A is the most flexible option. It can bend around corners without additional fittings and expand if frozen, then return to shape once thawed.

• PEX-B is more rigid and less forgiving. If frozen, it’s more likely to burst — though this is rare in moderate climates like the Bay Area.

For most homeowners in Santa Clara County and San Mateo County, flexibility matters more for installation convenience than freeze protection. The added flexibility of PEX-A can make it easier to run long pipe sections through walls and ceilings, reducing labor time.

Durability and Lifespan

Both Type A vs Type B PEX offer excellent durability when installed properly.

However, PEX-B has an advantage when it comes to chemical resistance — particularly against chlorine. Over time, high chlorine levels can degrade PEX-A slightly faster.

In contrast, PEX-A shines in mechanical durability. It can handle more expansion and contraction cycles, making it slightly better in homes with varying water pressures.

Both types are rated for a 50-year lifespan and perform exceptionally well under normal conditions in the Bay Area’s municipal water systems.

Type A vs Type B PEX: Cost Comparison

Cost can be a deciding factor for many homeowners.

Category	PEX-A	PEX-B
Material Cost	10–15% higher	More affordable
Fittings/Tools	Specialized, higher cost	Standard, inexpensive
Installation Labor	Slightly longer	Slightly faster
Total Project Cost	Moderate to high	Low to moderate

While PEX-A is more flexible and premium, PEX-B offers great value and performance at a lower cost. The price difference on a full-home repipe is often small, but the savings can add up for larger properties.

Performance and Water Flow

When comparing Type A vs Type B PEX, water flow is a subtle but real factor.

The expansion fittings used with PEX-A maintain the pipe’s full diameter, meaning no restriction at connection points. In contrast, PEX-B’s crimp fittings slightly reduce internal diameter at each joint.

However, in residential plumbing systems, this difference rarely impacts performance. Both types deliver strong and consistent water pressure when properly sized and installed.

Freeze, Heat, and Noise Resistance

Another reason homeowners choose PEX over copper is its ability to handle temperature fluctuations and reduce noise.

Both PEX-A and PEX-B expand slightly when heated and contract as they cool, preventing damage from pressure changes. However, PEX-A handles these stresses more smoothly due to its elasticity.

Noise is another consideration — both PEX types are quieter than copper because they absorb vibrations, preventing “water hammer” effects.

Environmental and Energy Efficiency

PEX-A and PEX-B are both more sustainable than copper. They require less energy to produce and install, and their lighter weight reduces transportation emissions.

In addition, PEX helps reduce heat loss in hot water lines due to its natural insulation properties — a small but real energy efficiency benefit for homeowners.

Type A vs Type B PEX in Bay Area Homes

In San Mateo County and Santa Clara County, water chemistry, home layout, and budget often determine which PEX type is ideal.

• Older homes with tight framing or complex layouts benefit from PEX-A, which makes routing easier.

• Homes with chlorinated municipal water may prefer PEX-B for added chemical resistance.

At Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter Inc., we evaluate your water quality, home size, and budget before recommending the right material. Our goal is always to maximize performance while minimizing cost and disruption.

Which Is Better: Type A vs Type B PEX for Repiping?

If you’re deciding between Type A vs Type B PEX, the short answer is that both perform exceptionally well — but for different reasons.

Choose PEX-A if:

• You want maximum flexibility

• Your home has tight or complex plumbing runs

• You prefer fewer fittings and faster water delivery

Choose PEX-B if:

• You want lower costs without sacrificing durability

• You’re on a chlorinated city water system

• You prefer standard crimp or clamp installation

Ultimately, the “better” choice depends on your home and preferences. Both materials offer decades of leak-free performance when installed by licensed professionals.

Why Work with Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter Inc.

When it comes to repiping in San Mateo County or Santa Clara County, expertise matters as much as material.

Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured contractor specializing in:

• Whole-house repipes (PEX & Copper)

• Trenchless water and sewer replacements

• Water heater installations (tank & tankless)

• Leak detection and repairs

• Emergency plumbing services

We offer:

• Free in-home estimates

• 0% APR financing options

• 30-year workmanship warranty

• 10% discounts for seniors, veterans, and first responders

With thousands of successful repipe projects completed, our team ensures your plumbing system will be reliable, efficient, and code-compliant for decades to come.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Between Type A vs Type B PEX

The Type A vs Type B PEX debate comes down to flexibility, durability, and budget.

• PEX-A offers unmatched versatility and installation ease.

• PEX-B provides solid performance at a more affordable price.

At the end of the day, both options will protect your home from leaks, corrosion, and water damage. Whether you’re upgrading for efficiency, resale value, or peace of mind, Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter Inc. can help you choose the right system.

We proudly serve San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Mountain View, and San Mateo County, providing professional repiping solutions backed by decades of experience.

Call (408) 295-4309 or book your free estimate online at repipechampions.com.