Should I use PEX or copper pipe for my plumbing renovation?

For most Vancouver plumbing renovations, PEX is the better choice due to its flexibility, freeze resistance, and significantly lower installation costs. However, copper still has advantages for certain applications and some homeowners prefer it for longevity and resale value.

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) has become the standard for residential plumbing in Metro Vancouver over the past 15-20 years. It's flexible, making it easier to snake through walls and around obstacles in older Vancouver homes like Craftsman bungalows or Vancouver Specials. PEX handles our freeze-thaw cycles better than copper and won't burst if pipes freeze during those occasional cold snaps. Installation is faster since it requires fewer fittings and joints, which translates to lower labor costs - typically 30-40% less expensive than copper installation.

Copper piping remains an excellent choice and was the gold standard for decades. It's extremely durable (can last 50-70 years), has antimicrobial properties, and many homeowners prefer it for drinking water lines. Copper handles high temperatures well, making it ideal for hot water lines to radiant heating systems. In heritage or character homes in neighborhoods like Kitsilano or Dunbar, copper may be preferred to maintain the home's original character.

This also includes our relatively mild climate, which reduces freeze concerns compared to colder regions, and our soft water, which is less corrosive to copper than hard water areas. However, Vancouver's high construction costs make PEX's easier installation particularly attractive - expect to pay $8-15 per linear foot for PEX installation versus $12-25 for copper.

Professional installation is mandatory for both materials under BC regulations. Any plumbing work beyond simple fixture replacement requires a licensed plumber, and rough-in work must be inspected. Your plumber will need to pull permits through your municipal building department (City of Vancouver: 311, other municipalities vary).

For your renovation, consider PEX for supply lines and areas where flexibility matters, but you might choose copper for exposed areas or if you're doing a high-end renovation where the premium material adds value. Many contractors now use a hybrid approach - PEX for most runs with copper for visible sections.

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