How to Pick the Right PEX System for New Construction
While most pros know us for our brass push-to-connect fittings, you can also use SharkBite in commercial and residential new construction settings.
Deciding what’s best for the rough-in stage of your project doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you need to install faster, reduce costs, or improve quality, you can reach your goals more easily with PEX pipes and systems.
With four PEX systems to choose from — expansion, EvoPEX, SharkBite Max and crimp — you can pick the products that work best for you. Discover which system best suits the needs of your project.
PEX Pipes
PEX Systems
PEX Pipes
SharkBite cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipe has been around for more than 35 years with over 850 million feet installed in North America. This flexible, freeze- and corrosion-resistant pipe is tested to the highest level of chlorine resistance standards and is certified to meet ASTM F876 requirements for continuous hot water recirculation. It also has the highest UV resistance at 6 months to meet the 5306 ASTM standards.
Not all PEX is the same, so here's what you need to know to pick the right one for your job.
PEX-a
This type is made using the Peroxide, or Engel, method and has the highest-rated flexibility. It has essentially no coil memory, making it ideal for expansion fittings, however, it is normally the highest-priced PEX pipe type.
PEX-a can be used with:
- Expansion fittings
- Push-to-connect fittings
- Crimp and clamp fittings
- EvoPEX fittings
PEX-b
This type of PEX is formed using the silane, or moisture cure, method. It is the most common PEX pipe and is offered in more sizes than PEX-a. It’s slightly more rigid than PEX-a, giving it a higher burst pressure. While PEX-a pipe is compatible with expansion fittings, PEX-b is not.
PEX-b can be used with:
- Push-to-connect fittings
- Crimp and clamp fittings
- EvoPEX fittings
PEX-c
This type is created using the electronic irradiation, or cold, method of cross-linking. It is commonly used for supply lines from the supply stop to the fixture. It may also be used for closed-loop heating systems like radiant floor heating and snow-melt systems. While we do not offer this PEX type, it is compatible with our SharkBite Max and crimp systems.
No matter which PEX you choose, it will make installation quick, easy and cost-effective. With longer pipe runs compared to other types of pipe, you’ll need less fittings, saving you time and reducing the number of possible leak points.
Where to Buy. Find our USA-made PEX pipe at wholesalers, on Amazon, at many home improvement retailers or at your local hardware store.
Catalog. For more information on SharkBite PEX pipe, check out our detailed catalog.
Brochure. Compare PEX and copper pipe and the benefits of using PEX for new construction.
PEX Systems
Whether you’re working on a residential or commercial build, SharkBite has you covered. From homes to apartments, stick frames to multi-story builds, these plumbing systems can streamline any project.
Watch: 4 Fitting Systems for SharkBite PEX Pipe
Expansion
Pros: Easy to install, time-saving, no calibration, broad range of options, durable, flexible, less potential leak points
Cons: Tools and multiple parts required, requires time for setting before pressure testing, can’t be disconnected after installed
The SharkBite expansion system connect PEX-a pipe using an expansion tool, expansion sleeves and expansion fittings. The most popular features of this connection type are its ease of use, quick installation and secure connections.
Expansion connections take just seconds to create. After expanding the pipe and inserting the fitting, the tubing will tighten around the fitting and secure your connection.
This system is only compatible with PEX-a pipe and is ideal for both residential and commercial plumbing installations. SharkBite offers brass and poly expansion fittings, plugs, adapters, sleeves and more for this connection method. Depending on the size, temperature and pressure rating needs of your project, choose between the brass or poly expansion systems.
SharkBite’s brass expansion fittings are made with dezincification-resistant, lead-free brass, and poly fittings are made using high-performance Acudel polymer. Both are corrosion-resistant and made for fast, easy installation. They are available in multiple sizes and certified for use in potable water and hydronic heating systems.
Read More: Miracle Mechanical uses PEX and Expansion for Free Repipe
EvoPEX push-to-connect
Pros: Time-saving, easy installation, green indicator, no special tools or parts, test immediately, no calibration, less potential leak points
Cons: Higher material cost, cannot be disconnected after installed
EvoPEX is a PEX-only push-to-connect plumbing system that's up to 30% faster to install than traditional installation methods because it doesn’t require special tools, soldering, glue or crimping. EvoPEX fittings display a green visual indicator when you've made a secure connection. This connection is permanent, so once you make the connection, you cannot remove the fitting.
This method offers the fastest installation with the least amount of tools or products needed. It does not require calibration, can be tested immediately, and has a minimal learning curve.
Read More: Testimonial: Multi-Family New Construction Build with SharkBite EvoPEX
SharkBite Max
Pros: No special tools or parts, easy to install, time-saving, no calibration, broad range of options, durable, can disconnect after installed, less potential leak points, versatile, test immediately, no calibration, underground and behind-the-wall applications
Cons: Higher material cost
The SharkBite Max system is the next generation of brass push-to-connect fittings from SharkBite. This is a push-to-connect system is the easiest to push onto the pipe out of all of our push-to-connect fittings, including EvoPEX. It also has a pressure rating of 400 psi, which is double the pressure of our first-generation fittings.
SharkBite Max is ideal for pipe transitions, making it easy to change pipe types from one area of the home to the next. Max also makes repairs quick and easy, for when you need to replace a fitting or fixture fast. Common new construction uses are stub outs, supply stops, and water heater installations.
Crimp and Clamp
Pros: Broad range of options, durable, less potential leak points, lower material cost
Cons: Tools and multiple parts required, must be calibrated, can’t be disconnected after installed
SharkBite offers brass and poly crimp fittings, valves, rings and more for PEX pipe. This system offers durable connections and is certified for use in potable water and hydronic heating system applications. Both crimp fitting options can be connected with either copper crimp rings or stainless-steel clamp rings.
These fittings are corrosion resistant. Brass fittings are made of lead-free DZR brass, and poly are made of high-performance Acudel polymer. Depending on your application, choose the right fittings that suit your size, temperature and pressure rating needs. Check the product page of your desired fitting for all ratings, approvals, sizes and other specs.
Read More: New Construction Applications