Modern PEX
Modern PEX | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Oak Ridge
Living in Oak Ridge means trusting the science of yesterday while embracing the innovations of today—especially when it comes to what’s hidden behind your walls. HEP’s technicians replace aging copper or galvanized lines with sleek, high-performance PEX that won’t corrode, burst in a freeze, or require endless soldering. Your water flows cleaner, your energy bills drop, and your peace of mind soars, all while we work quickly enough that you’re never without running water for long.
If you’ve been considering pipe upgrades, now is the perfect moment to future-proof your home. Our team handles every step—from precise material selection to spotless post-install cleanup—so all you notice is a quieter, more efficient plumbing system. Call HEP today and see how modern PEX can make your Oak Ridge home stronger, safer, and ready for decades of worry-free living.
FAQs
Why is PEX a better choice than copper or CPVC for plumbing upgrades in Oak Ridge?
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) resists internal corrosion from Oak Ridge’s moderately hard water, will not pit like copper, and is far less likely to crack than CPVC when exposed to the freeze/thaw cycles we experience in East Tennessee. The tubing is flexible, so it can be routed in long, continuous runs that eliminate many of the fittings where leaks typically start. Because PEX expands slightly under pressure, it operates more quietly than metal pipe and is rated for temperatures up to 200 °F—plenty for domestic hot-water service. Labor costs are usually lower as well, since fewer connections mean faster installation and reduced drywall damage during a repipe.
How long does a whole-house PEX repipe take, and will I be without water?
Most single-family homes in Oak Ridge can be fully repiped with PEX in two to five days. We start by mapping your existing plumbing, then pull new PEX through walls, attics, or crawlspaces with minimal cutting. Your water will only be shut off during the final tie-in—typically a few hours. We keep at least one bathroom functional each evening and provide temporary laundry or kitchen hookups if the project extends overnight, so daily routines are disrupted as little as possible.
Is PEX approved by Tennessee plumbing code and safe for drinking water?
Yes. Tennessee adopted the 2021 International Plumbing Code, which lists PEX as an approved material for potable-water distribution. Our installers use NSF/ANSI 61-certified tubing—free from lead, BPA, and phthalates. The material has been tested for chlorine resistance and meets ASTM F876/F877 standards. After installation, we perform a city-required pressure test, then schedule Oak Ridge code inspection to verify compliance before closing walls.
Will PEX piping help protect my home from frozen pipes?
While no material is completely freeze-proof, PEX’s flexibility allows it to expand under ice pressure and return to its original shape when thawed, vastly reducing the likelihood of burst lines compared with copper or PVC. We still insulate exposed sections in attics, crawlspaces, and exterior walls, but PEX provides an added layer of security during the sub-20 °F cold snaps Oak Ridge occasionally sees.
What is the expected lifespan and warranty of a PEX plumbing system?
Manufacturer testing shows properly installed PEX lasting 50+ years. The tubing is rated for over 100,000 thermal cycles between 73 °F and 180 °F at standard residential pressures. We use tier-one brands that carry a 25-year transferable manufacturer warranty on pipe and fittings when installed by a licensed contractor. Our workmanship warranty covers labor and related drywall repairs for 10 years, giving you long-term peace of mind.
How much does a PEX repipe cost and are financing options available in Oak Ridge?
Cost varies with home size, fixture count, and accessibility, but most Oak Ridge projects fall between $4,000 and $9,000—about 30 % less than a comparable copper repipe. We provide a detailed, line-item proposal after a free on-site evaluation. Financing is available through TVA EnergyRight® partners and local credit unions, with terms up to 60 months and rates as low as 6.99 % APR. You may also qualify for a small permit fee rebate from the City of Oak Ridge when replacing aging polybutylene or galvanized pipe.