How do you secure PEX coming out of the wall?

Properly securing PEX piping as it exits the wall is an important step when installing a plumbing system. PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, has become a very popular piping material for water supply lines in recent years due to its flexibility, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation. However, like any piping material, PEX must be properly supported and secured in place. Here are some tips on how to secure PEX piping coming out of the wall:

Use PEX Mounting Plates or Straps

One of the most common and secure ways to mount PEX as it exits the wall is to use a PEX mounting plate or strap. These plates are designed specifically for securing PEX piping. They feature pre-drilled holes that allow you to mount the plate to the stud or framing using screws. The plates also have integrated rubber grommets that the PEX tubing passes through. These grommets firmly grip the tubing while also allowing some movement and flexibility.

PEX mounting plates can be oriented vertically or horizontally as needed. Position the plate so that the PEX exits perpendicular to the wall, and be sure to mount the plate securely into a wall stud. This prevents sagging or pipe movement over time. Leave a little slack in the line before it passes into the grommet to allow for thermal expansion of the tubing.

Advantages of PEX Mounting Plates:

• Purpose-designed for securing PEX piping
• Integrated rubber grommets firmly grip tubing
• Allow for thermal expansion and contraction
• Can be oriented vertically or horizontally as needed
• Mount securely into wall studs

Use PEX Strap Hangers

In some cases, you may not be able to use a mounting plate, or may need to secure PEX tubing over a longer span. In these instances, PEX strap hangers can provide the solution. PEX strap hangers feature a sturdy metal strap that wraps around the tubing and uses screws to firmly secure the strap and pipe to the framing or stud. The smooth round strap applies an even gripping force around the tubing while also allowing it to expand and contract.

When using PEX strap hangers, position a hanger within 12 inches of where the tubing exits the wall. Then add hangers every 32 inches for horizontal runs of piping. For vertical runs, install a hanger within 18 inches of elbows or fittings. Always ensure the screws for the hangers are anchored securely into a stud or solid framing.

Advantages of PEX Strap Hangers:

• Can secure PEX over longer spans
• Apply an even grip around the tubing
• Allow for pipe movement and thermal expansion
• Can be used for horizontal or vertical runs
• Simple and economical solution

Use Pipe Clamps

Standard metal pipe or tube clamps can also work well for securing PEX tubing exiting a wall. Choose clamps that are smooth and rounded to prevent crimping the PEX lines. Position a clamp within 12 inches of where the tubing exits the wall framing.

When using clamps, use extra care not to overtighten them. Tightening too much can restrict flow and hinder the natural thermal expansion and contraction of the PEX tubing. But with proper tightening, clamps provide a simple way to firmly anchor the piping.

Advantages of Pipe Clamps:

• Inexpensive and readily available
• Easy to position and tighten
• Can be used to secure pipe to studs or joists
• Allow for some pipe movement if not overtightened

Use Plastic Pipe Straps

For a lightweight and flexible securing option, plastic pipe straps can work well. These are often available in adjustable sizes and have a smooth plastic coating to prevent damage to the tubing exterior. Simply position the strap near the wall exit point and wrap it around the PEX tubing. Tighten the strap just enough to anchor the pipe without restricting flow. Plastic straps allow the piping to expand and contract while preventing lateral movement.

Advantages of Plastic Pipe Straps:

• Lightweight flexible plastic
• Available in adjustable sizes
• Smooth interior prevents pipe damage
• Low profile and unobtrusive
• Allows for thermal expansion

Use Anchoring Collars

For exposed PEX piping, detachable anchoring collars can provide security. These collars wrap around the tubing and have an anchor tab that mounts to structures with a screw or fastener. Position collars near joints and fittings to prevent movement or detachment. Just take care not to overtighten the collar, which could restrict flow.

Advantages of Anchoring Collars:

• Can securely anchor exposed PEX piping
• Position conveniently near joints and fittings
• Allow reasonable tubing movement
• Can be detached and repositioned as needed

Use Insulated Foam Covers

For cold water supply lines, covering the exposed PEX with an insulated foam sleeve can help prevent condensation as it exits the wall. The foam sleeve slides over the piping and can be secured in place with tape or collars. This insulates the cold surface and prevents moisture accumulation on nearby walls or surfaces.

Advantages of Insulated Foam Covers:

• Prevents condensation on cold water pipes
• Easy to slide over existing piping
• Provides insulation for better temperature maintenance
• Protects against dripping or moisture damage

Position Carefully to Avoid Strain

When securing PEX tubing exiting a wall, always be careful to avoid placing strain on the connections inside the wall. Allow some slack in the line prior to securing it to account for natural movement as the pipe expands and contracts. Avoid bending or kinking the line immediately as it exits the wall framing. Positioning the securing devices carefully will prevent excessive strain or stress.

Support Long Horizontal Runs

Long horizontal runs of PEX piping will require supplemental supports. Follow the recommended maximum spacing between supports – typically 32 inches for horizontal runs. Use hangers, straps, blocks, or other supports to bear the weight of longer tubing spans.

Proper spacing between supports prevents sagging and maintains pitch for proper drainage. It also reduces stress on connections and the potential for loosening or detachment of fittings.

Allow for Thermal Expansion

One of the key benefits of flexible PEX tubing is its ability to expand and contract with temperature changes. Make sure any securing method you use allows for reasonable movement and expansion. Do not span between fixed points tightly or anchor tubing in a way that prevents natural thermal motions.

Leaving a bit of slack prior to the secured point or using flexible hanging straps prevents excessive constraints on the piping. This allows it to expand and contract freely with the water temperature variations that occur.

Use Manufacturer Recommendations

Always check manufacturer instructions for any specific recommendations on securing and supporting their PEX tubing products. They will provide distance and spacing requirements for supports and secured points. Following their guidelines ensures the tubing will have adequate support for a long lasting system.

Different PEX tubing types and ratings may have varying requirements, so be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the products used in your plumbing system.

Conclusion

Properly securing PEX tubing as it exits the wall provides a reliable, long lasting plumbing system. Mounting plates, hangers, straps, and collars are all specifically designed for firmly anchoring the piping while allowing flexibility. Position supports carefully, allow for thermal expansion, and follow manufacturer recommendations. Securing PEX tubing properly takes a little planning but prevents damage and instability in the plumbing system.

PEX Mounting Options Comparison

Method	Pros	Cons
PEX Mounting Plate	Purpose designed for PEX Integrated grommets Allows thermal expansion	Less flexible positioning Requires wall mounting
PEX Strap Hanger	Secures long spans Full tubing contact Allows expansion	Takes more time to install
Pipe Clamp	Inexpensive Easy to install	Potential to crimp tubing Less flexible
Plastic Strap	Very flexible Lightweight Adjustable	Not as sturdy Prone to slipping
Anchoring Collar	Easily repositioned Secures near fittings	Potential for leakage Not as secure

Tips for Securing PEX Tubing

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when securing PEX tubing exiting a wall:

• Position mounting plates or hangers within 12 inches of the exit point
• Allow for some slack in the tubing before the secured point
• Avoid tight bends immediately exiting the wall
• Use smooth, rounded straps or collars to prevent crimping
• Anchor into wall studs for added stability
• Follow manufacturer spacing guidelines for supports
• Allow reasonable movement for thermal expansion
• Secure exposed horizontal runs every 32 inches
• Support long vertical runs at elbows and connections

Properly securing PEX tubing is important for preventing pipe movement, detachment of fittings, and excessive strain on the system. With the right mounting plates, hangers, straps, and spacing, PEX can be firmly anchored without restricting flow or expansion.

Common Problems from Improperly Secured PEX

Failing to properly secure PEX tubing can lead to some common problems over time, including:

• Detached or loose fittings due to excessive movement
• Sagging pipes from inadequate supports
• Crimping or reduced flow due to tight bends or compressive forces
• Excess strain on fittings and connections
• Dripping or leaking due to movement and distortion
• Noisy water flow and water hammer from loose anchoring
• Pipe and fitting deterioration or bursting from unchecked expansion

Taking steps to correctly anchor PEX tubing as it exits the wall will help avoid these types of issues and maintain a more reliable system.

Fixing Improperly Secured PEX

If PEX piping was not properly secured, and problems such as leaking fittings, dripping pipes, or excess movement occur, steps should be taken to correct the situation:

• Identify areas where the PEX tubing is loose or not adequately supported based on movement or drips.
• Add additional mounting plates, hangers, or straps in these areas to better anchor the tubing.
• Reinstall any detached or leaking fittings, using pipe cements or sealants if needed.
• Adjust existing supports, hangers or hardware to allow for thermal expansion.
• Remove any tight bends in the tubing that may be crimping flow.
• Secure exposed vertical runs at elbows and connections if sagging.
• Follow manufacturer spacing guidelines if inadequate support intervals.

In some cases, sections of tubing or fittings may need to be replaced if damage has occurred. Always thoroughly inspect the system and identify any deficient anchoring that needs correction.

Preventing Future Improper Installation

To help prevent improper securing of PEX tubing in future installations:

• Carefully read manufacturer guidelines on proper tubing support.
• Have the necessary mounting plates, straps, hangers, and hardware on hand.
• Plan tubing routing to minimize tight bends and strain.
• Allow slack at connections to account for thermal expansion.
• Secure tubing at prescribed intervals based on type and orientation.
• Anchor into studs or solid framing only.
• Avoid compressing tubing with overtightened straps or collars.
• Inspect finished assemblies for proper anchoring and support.

Making securing PEX a priority during the initial installation can help provide long-lasting reliability and prevent leaks, detachments, and other problems over time.

Conclusion

Securing PEX tubing properly as it exits walls and framing is crucial for a durable plumbing system. Fortunately there are many effective options available for anchoring the piping. Mounting plates provide integrated grommets to grip the tubing while allowing movement. Hangers and straps can secure long spans or vertical runs. And collars anchor at key points along exposed pipes.

By properly spacing supports, allowing for expansion, and avoiding tight bends, PEX can be solidly anchored without restricting flow. Taking the time to correctly secure PEX reduces the risk of leaks, detachments, strain, and water flow issues. Following manufacturer guidelines and using purpose-designed mounting hardware gives PEX tubing the reliable support it needs while maintaining the flexibility that makes it an excellent piping choice.