FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

Pex – Where can I get more info???

| Posted in General Discussion on January 11, 1999 07:24am

*
Steve, I just had two homes plumbed with wirsbo aquapex. The plumber sold me on it after taking a piece of it and bending it repeatedly until there was no way water could flow thru it. He then used his torch to reheat it and it regained it’s original shape. He gave me a piece of it filled with water and capped off. It is still in my freezer and hasn’t split or blow off the caps. Try that with copper.It costs more for the product but the plumber can plumb a home faster with it to justify the price.Try www.wirsboaquapex.com

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. pat | Jan 11, 1999 07:24pm | #1

    *
    Steve, I just had two homes plumbed with wirsbo aquapex. The plumber sold me on it after taking a piece of it and bending it repeatedly until there was no way water could flow thru it. He then used his torch to reheat it and it regained it's original shape. He gave me a piece of it filled with water and capped off. It is still in my freezer and hasn't split or blow off the caps. Try that with copper.It costs more for the product but the plumber can plumb a home faster with it to justify the price.Try http://www.wirsboaquapex.com

  2. Guest_ | Jan 11, 1999 07:36pm | #2

    *
    Steve - use this link to get information on Wirsbo PEX .

    1. Guest_ | Jan 11, 1999 07:51pm | #3

      *Just be sure your local code permits its use - mine doesn't but then it was only a few years ago that one could use other than lead for the line from the street to the meter.

      1. Guest_ | Jan 11, 1999 10:02pm | #4

        *One of the local plumbing supply houses is selling a manifold system for plumbing. It looks a lot like a an electrical distribution panel. One side is cold water and the other side is hot. There is a set of valves on each side. A separate line is run for each fixture and water temperature using the PEX or Wirsbo tubing. The panel is around a $100 for one suitable for an average size home. Running the tubing looks to be like running electrial lines. I am seriously considering it for my home. I wish I could remember the mfgs name for this system, as you might find it interesting.

        1. Guest_ | Jan 11, 1999 10:34pm | #5

          *Gordon - is the theory that you wouldn't have to have local supply stops with this? It would be interesting to see a cost breakdown - a lot more materials but no joints! And so easy to isolate a system.I've also seen a similar system that on the manifold uses an electric valve - and each fixture has two switches - way to high teck for me but it was interesting.The one downside is the basis of the warranty and the materials susceptibility to ultraviolet - like how do you know it hasn't been under a skylight in the plumbing suppliers warehouse?

          1. Guest_ | Jan 11, 1999 11:04pm | #6

            *Vanguard makes a system like that. They call the distribution block a Manabloc. Comes complete with valves to shut off each line separately. I personnally like the Wirsbo system because the connections to fittings are based strictly on the memory of the PEX to return to its normal size. You expand it with a special tool, slip the fitting into the end of the tubing and let it return to its original size. It shrinks down tight and doesn't leak. Other manufacturers depend on a crimp ring on the outside of the tubing to keep it tight on the fitting.As for warrantee, Wirsbo warrantees their product for 25 years if installed by a certified installer. It's not too difficult for a plumber to get certified - a couple hour seminar and test at the conclusion. As for UV - manufacturers say do not use or store where it will be exposed to direct sunlight for more than 30 days - most window/skylight materials don't pass UV radiation.For small repairs, if you don't have the correct tool to attach the fittings, you can use the same compression fittings you use with copper tube. This works with various PEX brands. The key to no-leak connections is to use a stainless steel insert in the end of the tube, tighten the nut down on the compression ring normally, then come back 30 minutes later to take up any slack by tightening the nut a little more.

          2. Guest_ | Jan 12, 1999 12:48am | #7

            *allaround - Thanks. But as to windows and skylights passing uv - I have to take exception. While some uv is filtered out, a lot passes which is why things fade and why art galleries can't have direct light and so on. It was actually Vic at the Plumbingsupply.com board that brought this to may attention - and he's a supplier and it worries him.

          3. Guest_ | Jan 12, 1999 01:46am | #8

            *As another poster stated the system is made by Vanguard. It does eliminate separate shutoffs at each fixture. The supplier said that even with the extral footage of the individual lines it was competitive when you figured in the labor to install. However, he said the plumbers using it tended not to buy the manifold system but rather, just used the PEX tubing to replace the copper pipe.I like the Wirsbo system for connections better than the copper ring or mechanical threading compression style used with most PEX tubing. I would like to use the Vanguard manifold with Wirsbo tubing, though more research is in order. I don't know about the long term effect of UV exposure in a warehouse. I think you would notice if its yellowed a bit or the strapping or paper labels look like they had been on Noah's ark. Apparently Wirsbo has been making the cross linked tubing for 25 plus years. When the polybutylene fiasco errupted, the tubing vendors took a hike so the vendors selling the polybutylene systems looked for another tubing source and latched on to the cross linked stuff. The kink-the-crap-out-of-it demo with the Wirsbo stuff was most impressive. Heat from a torch turned it clear and the kink disappeared.

          4. Guest_ | Jan 12, 1999 02:40am | #9

            *Kewl! And thanks. I might move - you can't even use pex for radiant heating in this jurisdiction.

          5. Guest_ | Jan 12, 1999 07:11am | #10

            *Bill - you're right - I'd forgotten about things fading. Was just thinking why I can't get a good tan lying on my living room floor. I guess it's just been so long since I've seen the sun........

  3. Scott_Greaves | Jan 14, 1999 03:32am | #11

    *
    Bill - I saw this topic, and just had to jump in. You and I have discussed PEX before. I had big worries about buying "fresh" PEX from my supplier, stuff that hadn't been exposed to UV. They don't sell much where I buy it from, and I was worried that I might get some that had been laying around in the sunlight a while. So I made sure to buy a whole box at a time. Wirsbo coils (300') come sealed up in a nice cardboard box. When I got it, I checked to make sure the box hadn't been opened. I don't think you can depend on the suppliers to be careful with UV exposure of PEX products, unless you can find a distributor that sells a lot of it, and is aware of the need to protect it. Good Luck!

    Scott.

  4. Guest_ | Jan 14, 1999 03:32am | #12

    *
    With the cold weather upon us I am seeing more and more references to Pex. I know what the stuff is in a general sort of way but no where well enough to make a decision on using the stuff in my next project. Anyone know about a good reference on the net that I can research or a source I can write?

    Particularly interested in how the stuff is used under slab.

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

FHB Podcast Segment: Finding the Right Fixer-Upper

Get expert guidance on finding a fixer-upper that's worth the effort.

Featured Video

Builder’s Advocate: An Interview With Viewrail

Learn more about affordable, modern floating stairs, from design to manufacturing to installation.

Related Stories

  • Guest Suite With a Garden House
  • Podcast Episode 688: Obstructed Ridge Vent, Buying Fixer-Uppers, and Flashing Ledgers
  • FHB Podcast Segment: Finding the Right Fixer-Upper
  • Keeping It Cottage-Sized

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data