Pipe Material Comparison Calculator
Compare costs, lifespan, and pros/cons of PEX, copper, CPVC, and galvanized pipe for any project length and diameter.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
Each pipe material has trade-offs between cost, lifespan, and ease of installation. PEX dominates residential repiping for cost and speed. Copper remains the gold standard for longevity. CPVC is cheapest but most brittle.
The Formula
Total Cost = (Material $/ft x Length) + (Labor $/ft x Length)
Cost Per Year = Total Cost / Expected Lifespan
Cost Per Year = Total Cost / Expected Lifespan
Variables
- PEX — Cross-linked polyethylene — flexible, color-coded (red hot, blue cold)
- Copper L — Type L copper — medium wall thickness, standard for residential
- CPVC — Chlorinated PVC — rigid, solvent-welded joints
Worked Example
200 ft of 3/4" pipe: PEX total $900, Copper total $2,200, CPVC total $900, Galvanized total $2,100. PEX and CPVC are cheapest but PEX lasts 5 years longer.
Practical Tips
- PEX is the best value for most residential projects
- Copper is worth the cost in high-end homes or areas with aggressive water
- Never use galvanized for new installs — it is a legacy material
- CPVC becomes brittle in cold climates — PEX handles freezing better