And the plastic pipe’s strength doesn’t change in cold weather except in extreme temperatures. So when there’s more pressure, PEX expands, meaning it will survive a high-pressure situation, like water freezing, longer than rigid pipes.

Will PEX break from freezing?

PEX pipe will expand if frozen and contract to its original shape when thawed. But putting frequent stress on the system weakens it, increasing chances of failure and leaks. So, to preserve the strength of your pipes, you should use the same standard insulation precautions with PEX to keep it from freezing.

How do you keep PEX from freezing?

1. Keep the room temperature above 55 F.
2. Add insulation to particularly cold places such as attics, garages and basements.
3. Drip faucets to keep water moving in the pipes.
4. Shut off the water to outside hose bibbs (spigots) & drain the pipes.
5. Install frost-free sillcocks.