Modern PEX
Modern PEX | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Andersonville
Swap out brittle, rusty lines for the flexible strength of modern PEX with HEP, Andersonville’s trusted, licensed plumbing pros. Our specialists thread clean, freeze-resistant tubing through walls and crawlspaces with minimal cutting, so your water is back on the same day—and your drywall stays mostly intact. You’ll feel the difference immediately: steadier pressure, cleaner taste, and the confidence that your home is protected from hidden leaks or burst pipes during frigid Midwest winters.
Whether you’re remodeling one bathroom or revamping an entire duplex, our tailored pipe upgrades come with transparent pricing, photographs of every step, and warranties that outlast most fixtures. Schedule a free on-site assessment, and let HEP show you how effortless the leap to modern PEX can be.
FAQs
What is PEX plumbing and why should I replace my existing pipes with it in Andersonville?
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a flexible, high-density plastic tubing used for water supply lines. Many Andersonville homes still have aging galvanized steel or copper that can corrode, restrict flow, or develop pin-hole leaks. Upgrading to PEX eliminates corrosion issues, restores full water pressure, and provides a cleaner, lead-free water path. Because PEX comes in long continuous rolls, we can usually run new lines with fewer fittings and minimal wall demolition, making it an ideal choice for pipe upgrades in older neighborhood housing stock.
How does PEX perform in Andersonville’s freeze-thaw climate?
PEX has a natural ability to expand slightly when water freezes, greatly reducing the chance of burst pipes compared with rigid copper. While you should still winterize any unconditioned spaces, PEX’s flexibility adds an extra layer of protection during the harsh Chicago winters. Its resistance to scale buildup and chlorine degradation also makes it reliable for Andersonville’s municipal water chemistry.
What is the typical timeline and disruption level for a full PEX repipe?
Most single-family homes in Andersonville can be completely repiped in two to four days, with water shut-offs limited to a few hours at a time. Because PEX can often be fished through existing wall cavities, we make only small access holes that are patched afterward. You can remain in your home throughout the project, and we schedule final drywall and paint touch-ups so you’re left with a finished look.
Is PEX approved by local plumbing codes and will it affect my insurance?
Yes. Illinois and City of Chicago plumbing codes—which also cover Andersonville—fully recognize PEX 5306 for potable water systems when installed by a licensed contractor. We pull all necessary permits and arrange inspections. Replacing deteriorated pipes with code-compliant PEX can even lower risk-based insurance premiums because it reduces the likelihood of future water damage claims.
How does the cost of upgrading to PEX compare to copper or CPVC?
PEX material costs are generally 30–40 % lower than Type L copper and slightly lower than CPVC. Labor savings are even greater because PEX requires fewer fittings and less soldering or gluing. For a typical 2-bath Andersonville bungalow, a PEX repipe runs about $4,500–$6,500, whereas copper could exceed $9,000. These figures include permits, new shut-off valves, and restoration work.
What lifespan, maintenance, and warranty can I expect from new PEX pipes?
Properly installed PEX has a life expectancy of 50+ years. It is virtually maintenance-free: it will not corrode, pit, or develop scale, and it absorbs minor pressure surges, reducing water-hammer noise. We provide a 25-year manufacturer warranty on the tubing and a 10-year workmanship warranty. Annual visual checks of accessible manifolds and valves are all that’s recommended to keep your new system in top shape.