PEX vs Copper Plumbing: Which Is Better for Hill Country Homes?

If your home has older plumbing — or if you’re planning a remodel — you may be wondering whether PEX or copper is the better choice for your water lines.

Both materials have advantages, but in the Texas Hill Country climate, the differences matter more than you might think.

This guide breaks down:

• Cost differences

• Freeze resistance

• Longevity

• Repair considerations

• Which option makes the most sense locally

What Is Copper Plumbing?

Copper has been used in homes for decades and is still common in older Hill Country houses.

Pros:

• Long lifespan

• Resistant to UV exposure

• Familiar to most plumbers

Cons:

• Rigid — prone to bursting when frozen

• More expensive

• Can corrode over time

• Repairs often require cutting walls or slabs

Copper pipes are particularly vulnerable during sudden freezes.

What Is PEX Plumbing?

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a flexible plastic piping system increasingly used in modern homes.

Pros:

• Flexible and freeze-resistant

• Less likely to burst

• Lower installation cost

• Faster repairs

• Fewer fittings and joints

Cons:

• Not UV-resistant (not for outdoor use)

• Must be installed properly to avoid issues

PEX has become very popular in Texas due to freeze performance.

Freeze Resistance — A Major Difference

This is where PEX shines.

• Copper expands minimally and often splits when frozen

• PEX can expand and contract, reducing burst risk

While PEX isn’t freeze-proof, it is far more forgiving in cold snaps.

Cost Comparison

Costs vary, but generally:

• Copper: Higher material and labor costs

• PEX: Lower material cost, faster installation

PEX is often the more budget-friendly option for repiping or remodels.

Repair & Maintenance Considerations

• Copper repairs often require cutting drywall or concrete

• PEX repairs are usually quicker and less invasive

• PEX systems often include centralized manifolds for easier shutoff

This can significantly reduce downtime and repair costs.

Which Is Better for Hill Country Homes?

In many cases:

• PEX is the better choice for freeze resistance and flexibility

• Copper may still be acceptable in protected interior areas

For homes with:

• Frequent freeze issues

• Aging copper lines

• Slab leaks

• Remodel plans

PEX replacement is often worth considering.

When Should You Consider Repiping?

Signs it may be time:

• Repeated leaks

• Slab leaks

• Low or fluctuating water pressure

• Discolored water

• Older copper lines

A professional evaluation can help determine the best solution.

Conclusion

Choosing the right plumbing material is a long-term decision that affects your home’s safety, efficiency, and repair costs.

If you’re considering repiping or want an expert opinion on your current plumbing system, Resurrection Plumbing can help you make the right call. We serve Kerrville, Fredericksburg, Bandera, Medina, Comfort, Center Point, Ingram, Hunt, Mountain Home, and surrounding Texas Hill Country communities. Give us a call today!