I volunteer for a non-profit in Fort Worth, TX. We have been without water in the warehouse for over a year because the water pipes froze last winter and now they leak. I have decided to try to repair this line, but it is not copper. It is an orange colored, sort of plastic water line. Pex perhaps? But it looks thicker than the usual Pex I have seen in new construction. We have about 65 linear feet of this type of pipe all exposed so it will be easy to access. Is patching Okay or should I replace the entire length? I have been told I can get by with a fitting called "Shark Bite". This would not require tools. I find that difficult to believe. But I would prefer not to purchase Pex tools for only one repair job.
Is Pex really the best for a non-heated building? Is there something better suited freezing temps?
Also, I have been advised to use heat tape to protect future water lines from freeze damage. But before I spring for all of this I would like some advice on this subject.
Is Pex really the best for a non-heated building? Is there something better suited freezing temps?
Also, I have been advised to use heat tape to protect future water lines from freeze damage. But before I spring for all of this I would like some advice on this subject.
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