PEX pipes can be attached to a variety of surfaces.
PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is a type of plastic plumbing pipe that is used in a wide variety of commercial and residential applications. Like all other plumbing pipes, PEX can be secured to wall beams in ceilings during installation. Using pipe clamps, PEX can be securely mounted to support beams and other parts of the ceiling's wooden frame as needed.
About PEX Pipes
PEX pipes are rated for potable drinking water, as well as temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes PEX a versatile material for most plumbing applications. PEX is made through an injection molding process that results in a durable pipe that resists corrosion. PEX can be installed in walls, underground or in ceilings. When installing PEX in ceilings, it's important to mount them in place using pipe clamp or hanging straps. Mounting your PEX pipes will ensure they do not move when pressurized, which can create a banging noise in the ceiling or wall.
Mounting PEX Pipes
Mounting PEX requires the use of either clamps or hanging straps. Pipe clamps are the simplest option in most cases. Place the clamp around the body of the pipe with the two flat ends against the ceiling joist or beam. Nail the clamp into place through the two holes in either side of the flat end of the clamps. Hanging straps come in rolls and consist of strips of thin-gauge copper or plastic with holes punched through the center of the strip. Cut off about 3 inches of the strip, wrap it around the pipe and nail either side into the beam.
Types of Pipe Clamps
Pipe clamps are available in copper, plastic and galvanized steel. In most cases, it's best to use the type of clamp that matches the material of the pipe. For example, copper pipes should be mounted using copper pipe clamps. For PEX, a plastic material, plastic clamps work best as they will not cut into the side of the pipe. Using a material such as copper or galvanized steel with a PEX pipe may damage the pipe over time.
Mounting Locations
PEX is typically mounted flush against any wooden surface, such as a ceiling beam. However, if the beam site is perpendicular to the direction that you want to run the pipe, if may not be feasible to run the pipe against the beam. In this case, consider using a drill with a 2-inch hole saw attachment to bore a path through the ceiling beam for the pipe. This process results in a straight path for the pipe, which can help bring down the cost of materials by reducing wasted pipe. PEX that is pushed through holes in ceiling beams should still be secured using pipe clamps when possible.
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