November 14, 2025

During a multi-family building project, we discovered several PEX-A pipes had developed stress cracks just behind crimp fittings after only two years of service. The investigation revealed that improper crimping techniques had compromised the pipe integrity, leading to costly repairs and tenant relocation. Yes, crimp fittings can damage PEX-A pipes when improper tools or excessive […]

During a large apartment complex installation, we discovered that using standard crimp fittings with PEX-A pipes resulted in inconsistent performance and eventual leaks. This costly lesson taught me that PEX-A’s unique properties genuinely require specialized fitting systems to achieve their full potential. Yes, PEX-A pipes require specialized expansion fittings that leverage the material’s molecular memory

Early in my career, I encountered a plumbing system where different contractors had installed PEX-A and PEX-B in the same building without proper transitions. The resulting leaks and connection failures cost thousands to rectify, driving home the critical question: why avoid mixing PEX-A and PEX-B systems? For authoritative insights, reference ASTM D2846 Mixing PEX-A and PEX-B creates

During a large residential project, our team encountered a critical compatibility issue when PEX-B fittings failed to create reliable connections with PEX-A tubing. The resulting leaks caused significant water damage and taught us the importance of understanding PEX material compatibility before beginning any installation. PEX-B fittings can physically connect to PEX-A tubing using mechanical methods

During a residential plumbing retrofit, I encountered a system where the previous installer had mixed PEX-A pipes with PEX-B fittings. The resulting leaks and connection failures taught me valuable lessons about the importance of material compatibility in PEX systems. Using PEX-B fittings on PEX-A pipes is generally safe only with mechanical connection methods like crimping