PEX Leaks in Newer Homes?
PEX was supposed to be the “forever pipe.” But after years in the field, we’ve learned that even new homes can develop leaks — and it’s not always for the reasons you’d expect.
How It Started: One Leak, Then Another
Years ago, we got a call: “Water dripping from the ceiling above my water heater.” At first, it seemed like an isolated case. Then a week later, another homeowner in the same neighborhood. Same spot. Then another.
Fast-forward a few months, and the pattern was clear:
Newer homes (not 30-year-old pipes).
Expansion-style PEX, almost always on the hot side.
Leaks showing up near bends, where the line dropped to a fixture.
Dozens of calls, same story.
The fix was simple enough in the moment, but we knew something bigger was going on.
What the Manufacturer Told Us
We saved a section of failed pipe and sent it to the manufacturer. Their answer? It wasn’t bad install or defective product. The issue was oxidation from the water itself — specifically chlorine and chloramine in city water.
That chemistry eats at the pipe walls from the inside out, leaving behind hairline cracks that eventually turn into leaks.
The Plastic Pipe Institute has published technical notes on how disinfectants like chlorine can stress PEX piping over time.
Even EPA water treatment guidelines show that chlorine and chloramine are necessary for disinfection but can be reactive with certain materials.
So no, you’re not imagining things — the water really does play a role.
How We Responded
We made a business decision: we no longer install that style of PEX. Instead, we use PEX-B from Viega with stainless steel crimp fittings.
Viega themselves note that their fittings are tested for long-term resistance to chlorine degradation.
Other plumbers have their preferences — this is ours, based on what we’ve actually seen in Kingwood, Atascocita, and nearby homes.
So What Can Homeowners Do?
If oxidation is caused by water chemistry, how do you protect your home?
Filtration at the Source
A whole-home carbon or KDF filtration system can reduce chlorine/chloramine levels before they reach your plumbing.
This isn’t just us saying it — NSF/ANSI Standard 42 is the certification for filters designed to reduce chlorine taste, odor, and oxidants.
The result: longer pipe and appliance life, better tasting water, and fewer headaches down the road.
Peace of Mind with Automatic Shut-Off Valves
Even the best piping system can fail. That’s why many of our customers add automatic shut-off valves.
Brands like Moen Flo and Phyn Plus are designed to monitor water flow, detect leaks, and shut off the supply before damage spreads.
Bonus: Some insurance companies are now offering incentives for these systems because they reduce claims.
A Personal Note
For those of you who know me, you know I can nerd out on water. Call me your modern-day water boy — “now that’s what I call some high-quality H2O.” 😅
Any who — if you’re curious about these systems, or just want peace of mind before small leaks turn into big ones, set up a call. We’ll walk you through the options and figure out what makes sense for your home.
Cheers, and God bless.
— Brazos Home Services
