Flexible plastic pipe is
easy to work with, but not
allowed in every community.

About this Project

Like flexible copper tubing, flexible plastic tubing comes in long coils that you can snake through tight spots without using fittings. It kinks if bent too far, but doesn't kink as readily as flexible copper tubing. Codes in your area may disallow it entirely. If they do allow it, they will specify which type can be used in specific situations. PB (polybutylene) flexible plastic tubing can be used for hot and cold lines. Less expensive PE (polyethylene) tubing is affected by heat and therefore can be used to carry cold water only. Many communities allow its use underground for wells and sprinkler systems.

Both types of tubing are easy to work with: Cut the tubing with a knife, and join sections with clamps or compression fittings. Connect flexible plastic to other pipe materials with transition fittings that allow expansion and contraction. Support tubing every 32 inches, and clamp it loosely. PE and PB can be punctured, so don't use either for exposed runs.