DIY Network

PEX Piping Learn how to install a PEX plumbing system. From "Ed the Plumber" episode DETP-304

Host Ed Del Grande explains the process of plumbing with PEX piping.

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Materials:

right angle drill
set of paddle bits
PEX cutting tool
crimp gauge
nailing plates
hammer
soldering kit
straps and hangers
PEX pipe
PEX manifold with ball valves
various fittings and crimps
PEX stub outs

	Figure A
	Figure B

Tip: When you're roughing in your lines, use a right angle drill with either an auger bit or paddle bit.

1. Place the bit up to the stud and slowly start the drill (figure A), allowing it to build up speed as you go through the stud.

2. Drill through the sill plate and sub-floor for each water line. When drilling through a stud, be sure that each hole is at the same level so the pipe runs parallel to the floor.

3. Once your holes are drilled, you can start running your water lines. In most cases, the lines will come through the floor. In some cases you'll have to run them across the wall studs. When running the pipes through the studs, first make sure you drill the holes in the center so that when you hang the wall board, the screws or nails shouldn't reach the pipes and damage the pipes.

Note: Take this extra precaution – Ed recommends using a nail plate (figure B). The nail plate has tacks on both ends of a flat piece of steel. Line them up to cover screws or nails so they don't penetrate the steel to damage pipes.

4. Pull the lines up through the holes you drilled in the sub-floor (figure C), and then run the other end to the area where the water will be coming into the home. Be sure to leave extra pipe on both ends of the run.

5. Secure the line to the joists using clamps (figure D). Do your best to separate the hot and cold lines to minimize heat transfer.

6. Leave a little slack in the line to allow for expansion and contraction. Don't forget to label both ends of the line.

Figure C

Figure D

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