I’ve pulled miles of PEX in my 25+ years and specced just as much for contractors who wanted reliable, code-compliant installs without babysitting backorders. If you’re shopping PEX—whether you’re a licensed pro, a serious DIYer, a property manager running a multifamily portfolio, or a homeowner who just wants hot water without headaches—this guide will save you missteps, callbacks, and money. I’ll break down the stuff that matters: correct pipe, the right fittings, proven tools, and how to buy smart from a true PEX supply house. And yes, I’ll say this out loud—sourcing matters as much as installation. When Home Depot is out of 3/4-inch tees or Lowe’s swaps brands mid-project, your crew burns time. That’s exactly why we’ve built Plumbing Supply And More to serve working plumbers first.
You’ll see PEX Supply House Essentials: Pipes, Fittings, and Crimp Tools Explained come to life below with brand-specific advice, model numbers I trust, and field-tested tips. If a spec doesn’t pass my “would I put it in my own wall?” test, it’s not on Rick’s Picks.
PEX Fundamentals and Codes: What Pros Check First
PEX is governed by ASTM F877 as a system—tubing plus fittings. Most potable jobs in our area follow IPC or UPC; both allow PEX when it’s third-party certified (NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 for drinking water, NSF 14 for plastic piping). For fittings, know the standards: ASTM F1807 (metal crimp), F2159 (poly crimp), F1960 (cold expansion), and F2098 (cinch clamp). If your inspector hvac supply house asks, you can show stamped markings on the fitting or ring. I teach apprentices to write the fitting standard right on the riser diagram—makes closeout painless.
Temperature/pressure ratings matter: most premium PEX is rated 160 psi at 73°F, 100 psi at 180°F, and 80 psi at 200°F. For hydronic or radiant jobs, use oxygen-barrier PEX per DIN 4726 to protect ferrous components. In snowmelt or high-temp loops above 180°F, many pros step to PP-RCT or copper; if you do run PEX, verify the manufacturer’s de-rate chart.
Pro tip: When a plan set calls “PEX by Uponor or equal,” don’t freewheel. If you swap to a different system (say F1960 to F1807), submit an RFI and get it in writing. Mixing expansion-only fittings with crimp-style rings isn’t just a bad idea; it’s a fail.
Pipe Types: A, B, C, and Barrier—Where Each Belongs
PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C refer to the crosslinking method, not quality tiers. Each fits a lane:
- PEX-A (peroxide) is the most flexible and supports F1960 cold expansion. Great for manifold homeruns, remodels in tight framing, and freeze resilience. Examples: Uponor AquaPEX, Rehau RAUPEX. You’ll feel the flex difference on long pulls. PEX-B (silane) is slightly stiffer and often has excellent chlorine resistance. It’s ideal for trunk-and-branch with F1807 brass or F2159 poly crimp fittings. Examples: Viega PureFlow B, NIBCO PEX-B. It’s budget-friendly and tough in high-chlorine municipal systems. PEX-C (e-beam) sits between A/B on flexibility; it’s less common in my spec lists but perfectly serviceable for crimp/clamp systems.
For hydronics, choose oxygen-barrier PEX (e.g., Viega FostaPEX with aluminum layer or Uponor hePEX). That barrier is non-negotiable for cast iron boilers, steel panel rads, and black iron components.
Pricing today (typical contractor boxes): 1/2-in PEX-B runs roughly $0.28–$0.45/ft; PEX-A about $0.40–$0.70/ft; barrier PEX 1/2-in about $0.65–$1.10/ft. Expect 3/4-in to be 2–2.5x the 1/2-in price. If a quote beats that by a mile, ask about third-party listings and resin source.
Fittings Deep Dive: Crimp, Clamp, Press, and Expansion
Here’s the honest breakdown of joining methods and when I recommend each:
- Crimp (ASTM F1807 metal, F2159 poly): The workhorse. Uses copper rings (crimp) or stainless cinch (clamp). Brass options like Viega PureFlow bronze or Sioux Chief PowerPEX lead-free brass are rugged. Poly fittings cut cost and resist dezincification but are bulkier—consider flow. Clamp/Cinch (ASTM F2098): Stainless clamps can be set with a single tool size—handy for service trucks. I like Oetiker clamps for consistent ear geometry. Flow performance is similar to crimp. Press (Viega Smart Connect, PureFlow press): Fewer tools to carry if you’re already pressing copper. Press PEX fittings are bulkier and can nick budget. Great for mixed-material jobs. Expansion (ASTM F1960): PEX-A + expansion sleeves equals full-bore flow and excellent freeze forgiveness. Uponor ProPEX and Milwaukee M12 expanders make it fast. Inspectors love the visual verification.
Flow matters. On a 1/2-in run, a crimp fitting can shave a few tenths of GPM compared to expansion because of insert ID. Does it hurt a powder room? Not usually. On a 2.5-bath with long runs, it adds up. If your design is near minimum pressure at the far fixture, expansion earns its keep.
Real-world picks:
- Uponor ProPEX LF Brass Elbows (LF4527550 for 1/2-in) for clean expansion installs. Viega PureFlow Bronze Tees (model 49155) when I want crimped reliability. Apollo PEX-B Poly 90s (APXPT0514) for cost-controlled multifamily trunk-and-branch.
Tools That Pay for Themselves: Crimpers, Expanders, Cutters, and Gauges
I judge a tool by two things: repeatable joints and call-back rate. The rest is marketing. My short list:
- Cutters: RIDGID RC-1625 ratcheting cutter gives square cuts that seal. Expect $45–$65. A bad cut ruins perfect rings—don’t cheap out. Crimp: IWISS IWS-FA kit (1/2 and 3/4-in) runs ~$45–$80 and hits go/no-go gauges reliably once calibrated. For daily commercial volume, Milwaukee 2674-22C M18 Force Logic with PEX Crimp Jaws speeds production. Clamp/Cinch: Knipex or Oetiker-compatible ear clamp tools are reliable; look for smooth jaw faces to avoid tearing ears. Expansion: Milwaukee M12 ProPEX Expander Kit 2432-22 (~$399–$499) is my go-to. Keep expander cones clean and lightly lubricated. For 1-in and up, step to the M18 2632 for cycle speed. Press: If your crew already carries a Viega press tool, adding PEX press jaws keeps things consistent on mixed-material jobs.
Pro tip: Always carry the correct go/no-go gauge (for crimp) and actually use it. I’ve seen more leaks from under-crimps than any other PEX mistake. And if your crew works winters, keep expansion batteries warm and PEX sleeves in the cab—cold material slows recovery and leads to rushed, loose joints.
Sizing, Layout, and Real-World Installation Tips
A solid PEX layout wins before the first stick of pipe leaves the plumbing supply house. On typical single-family homes, I prefer a hybrid: a 1-in trunk to a centrally located manifold, then 1/2-in homeruns to high-use fixtures and short 3/8-in branches to infrequently used points. It balances water age, hot-water wait times, and cost. For multifamily risers, PEX-B trunk-and-branch with crimp fittings remains my default—easy, inspectable, and fast.
- Sizing rules of thumb: 1/2-in supports a typical bathroom group; go 3/4-in when stacking fixtures or when runs exceed 60 ft. For rain showers or body sprays, expansion fittings help keep flow up without bumping every run to 3/4-in. Support: Follow manufacturer spacing—usually every 32–48 in horizontally. Use bend supports for sweeping 90s and to reduce fitting count. Avoid point loads on joist notches. Penetrations: Grommets protect PEX through studs and reduce squeaks. Firestop at rated assemblies—inspectors will look.
Timeframes: A two-bath repipe with manifold homeruns is a 1–2 day job for a 2-person crew using expansion, including tie-in and purge. Add a day if you’re working plaster or fishing through blocked bays.
Water Quality, UV, and Freeze: Reliability in the Wall
PEX does great with freeze-thaw compared to copper, but don’t press your luck. If you’re in crawlspaces or unconditioned attics, insulate and heat-trace vulnerable sections. For direct sun exposure (garage windows, roof decks), remember PEX is not UV-tolerant; most brands limit exposure to 30–60 days prior to covering. If you’re doing exterior stub-outs, switch to copper from the last concealed point or protect PEX with conduit and shielding.
Chlorine and chloramines shorten pipe life at high temps. If your municipality is heavy-handed with disinfectants, lean into PEX-B with stated chlorine resistance and keep recirculation temps around 120°F with mixing valves at points of use. For hard water, the pipe’s fine—the fixtures and heaters aren’t. Plan for serviceable isolation valves and hose bibb purge points.
Jobsite Logistics: Inventory, Kitting, and Delivery That Keep Schedules
This is where a real supply partner pays dividends. We kit projects by bathroom group or by floor, including pre-labeled manifolds, supports, rings, and the oddball adapters you’ll need for that one vintage tub set. Serving contractors throughout the Greater Philadelphia, South Jersey, and Northern Delaware region, we run same-day and emergency runs within a 75-mile radius when the framing crew jumps ahead and you need 1-in barrier PEX by lunch.
And yes, the buying experience matters:
- Some crews still punch “ plumbing supply near me” or “ plumbing supply store near me” into their phones from the jobsite. If that’s you, swing by the nearest PSAM branch and ask for Rick’s Picks. If you’re comparing a plumbing supply store or a plumbing supply shop to what you see on a marketplace, ask who’s cutting your POs when you’re short a 3/4-in tee at 3 p.m. on Friday. Need HVAC hydronics gear with your pipe? We work as your practical hvac supply house for radiant and boiler accessories, too.
Here’s the straight talk: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components, and we put seasoned plumbers at the counter—so your apprentice doesn’t walk out with irrigation clamps for potable water. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise, and that shows when a superintendent calls for submittals and as-builts.
Competitor reality check: I respect Ferguson’s footprint and I’ve bought fasteners at Grainger in a pinch. SupplyHouse.com can ship a box of fittings. But when you need a 1-in expansion manifold today, not tomorrow, that’s a different game. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support, including fixture unit counts, loop layouts, and code packet printouts that inspectors actually accept. And yes— When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More because we solve problems onsite, not in a chatbot.
Price and Performance: Where to Spend—and Where to Save
Let’s talk budget without nicking performance.
Spend more on:
- Mainline tubing. A premium PEX-A or a proven PEX-B from a top manufacturer buys you consistency and confidence behind drywall. Transition fittings. Copper stub-outs with drop-ear 90s, brass stops, and quality angle valves reduce call-backs. Tools your crew will use daily. A reliable expander or calibrated crimper prevents weekend leaks.
Save without regret:
- Use poly crimp tees on cold lines in multifamily to shave material costs while staying within F2159. Use combo manifolds with built-in valves rather than separate valves per run when the layout allows. Buy rings and sleeves in bulk contractor packs.
Current ballpark pricing for planning:
- 1/2-in PEX rings: $0.12–$0.20 each (copper crimp), $0.18–$0.30 (stainless cinch). 1/2-in brass elbows: $1.75–$3.25; poly: $0.65–$1.40. 3-port 1-in PEX manifolds with valves: $45–$85.
Ask our counter team about pro packs—our contractor accounts get bulk discounts and priority fulfillment.
Sourcing Smart: Your PEX Supply House Playbook
I’m a broken record on this: your supply partner should reduce your workload, not add to it. If you’re toggling between a plumber supply house, a big box, and an internet plumbing supply, you’re spending time you can’t bill.
What to look for:
- Spec sheets and submittal packages on demand. Consistent brands and fittings—don’t mix and match to chase pennies. Real inventory counts, not “ships in 3–5 days.” Technical help—actual plumbers who’ve brazed copper at 2 a.m. and know why your recirc is short-cycling.
That’s exactly how we built Plumbing Supply And More. Beyond PEX, we cover the spectrum: general plumbing supply, plumbing and supply, commercial plumbing supply, wholesale plumbing supply, plumbing supplies direct, and quick-turn solutions for anyone searching for a local plumbing supply or closest plumbing supply with answers, not guesses. If you’re online at midnight, our plumbing supply online catalog tracks live inventory, from plumbing parts and bathroom plumbing supplies to plumbing kitchen rough-in kits. Need after-hours? Our 24 hour plumbing supply line routes to on-call staff for emergencies.
We routinely earn the business folks once gave to “the other guys”—be it plumbing wholesale near me, standard plumbing supply, or a national e-comm like SupplyHouse.com. And for cross-trade needs, our team understands city plumbing and electrical supply crossovers, and we’ll coordinate with your the supply house electrical counterparts so your panel clearances and pipe pathways don’t play chicken.
Quick Field List: My Rick’s Picks for PEX Brands and Tools
- Uponor AquaPEX (F1960) + Milwaukee M12 2432-22 ProPEX Expander: top-tier for full-bore flow and freeze forgiveness. Viega PureFlow PEX-B (F1807/F2159) + Viega bronze fittings: workhorse combo for multifamily and light commercial. RIDGID RC-1625 cutter + IWISS IWS-FA crimp kit: dependable, budget-friendly daily setup. Oetiker stainless clamps (ASTM F2098): consistent cinch joints when you want one-size clamp tooling.
Visit our showroom to see the quality difference, and ask for Rick’s Picks—tools and materials that have survived my jobboxes and a few apprentices.
FAQ: PEX Supply House Essentials: Pipes, Fittings, and Crimp Tools Explained
Q: Expansion or crimp—what’s better for a two-bath remodel? A: For tight framing with long homeruns, F1960 expansion (Uponor + Milwaukee M12) gives you full-bore flow and fewer fittings. If you’re trunk-and-branching short runs, F1807 brass crimp keeps cost down and performs great.
Q: Can I mix brands of tubing and fittings? A: Stick to one manufacturer’s listed system when possible. While ASTM standards allow cross-compatibility in many cases, warranty and inspector comfort are better when the system matches. We’ll help you confirm listings and provide submittals.
Q: What size PEX should I use for a shower with a rain head? A: Run 3/4-in to the shower valve when feeding multiple outlets. If you’re forced to stay 1/2-in on portions, expansion fittings help maintain flow. Check the valve manufacturer’s spec for minimum supply.
Q: Is PEX allowed for water heater connections? A: Yes, but keep PEX at least 18 in away from the flue or per the heater’s installation manual; use copper or stainless flex to transition. Many jurisdictions require metallic connections at the heater and dielectric protection.
Q: How do I protect PEX from rodents and UV? A: Sleeve or conduit in crawlspaces, route away from known rodent paths, and use protective plates at stud penetrations. Limit UV exposure during install and cover promptly; where exposure is unavoidable, use copper or protected runs.
Why Pros Choose Plumbing Supply And More for PEX
Here’s what I hear daily from foremen and property managers: they want product that shows up, advice that’s right the first time, and pricing that doesn’t wobble from bid to closeout. That’s our lane. We back it with same-day delivery, emergency supply, and contractor accounts with bulk discounts. Need help designing a homerun manifold, or choosing between PEX-A and PEX-B for a recirc line? Call our technical team for project-specific recommendations, and we’ll walk you through the install steps and submittals.
You’ll see the difference the moment you step into our plumbing supply company. Whether you found us searching for plumbing shop near me, heating plumbing supply near me, plumbing wholesale near me, or plumbing supply house near me, our counter is staffed by plumbers who’ve actually installed the materials they’re handing you. That’s the “nearest plumbing supply with real knowledge” advantage. And if you’re comparing options like economy plumbing supply, discount plumbing supplies, or cheap plumbing supplies, we’ll show you where value beats price-only thinking—without upselling what you don’t need.
We also help spec higher-end fixtures if you’re building out a show home or boutique rental—think decorative plumbing supply lines, trim kits, and coordinated plumbing spares near me stocked for maintenance teams. For facilities buyers navigating a wholesale plumbing supply company, consumer plumbing supply, or specialized channels like coastal plumbing supply, we streamline POs and keep standards tight across properties. If your procurement team is tied to “ supplyhouse plumbing” carts, we’ll match the convenience with better technical coverage. Running mixed trades? We coordinate across plumbing and heating supply, economy plumbing and heating supply, and even specialty needs like contractors plumbing and fire supply. And yes—we ship as direct plumbing supplies for crews who prefer to keep everything “ plumbing supplies supply” under one invoice.
I’ll say it plainly: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components, and we keep them on the shelf. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise you can put to work tomorrow. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support from design to inspection. And when you hit a wall at national competitors—be it Ferguson’s lead time, Grainger’s substitutions, or SupplyHouse.com’s shipping window—remember: When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More to deliver, same day, with the right kit the first time.
Ready to get your materials squared away? Check our current inventory online or call ahead, ask about our contractor discount program, and if you want me to look over your plan set, bring it in. Our experts can walk you through the installation process, and we’ll load the truck while the coffee’s still hot.
If you’ve made it this far through PEX Supply House Essentials: Pipes, Fittings, and Crimp Tools Explained, you’re exactly the kind of pro I like working with. Let’s build something that doesn’t leak.