What type of pipe is used? (PEX, PER, multilayer, etc.)
Floor Microclimat / August 14, 2025
Choosing the right pipe is a key step in ensuring the success of a heating or plumbing installation. PEX, PER, multilayer... each type has its own characteristics, advantages, and limitations. In this article, we review the different options to help you select the material best suited to your needs and budget.
1. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene)
This is the most common type and the one often found in modern installations.
- Why is it great? It is extremely flexible, easy to install (it can be easily bent to create loops under the floor), and heat resistant.
- Main advantage: it is also an oxygen-resistant material, which prevents rust from forming in the system.
PEX A :
It's kind of the high end.
- Manufactured using peroxide cross-linking (a chemical process that makes PEX more resistant).
- This type of PEX is very flexible, making it easy to install. You can bend it without any problems, even in fairly tight angles.
- It also has high heat and pressure resistance and is more durable over time.
- And another cool thing: it is less susceptible to cracking in the event of impact or excessive pressure.
In summary, PEX A is more flexible and durable, so it is often preferred for high-performance installations.
PEX B :
It is slightly less flexible than PEX A, but it remains very strong.
- Manufactured using silica cross-linking (another process), which results in a material that is slightly more rigid.
- Although it is less flexible, it is more resistant to abrasion and may be a more economical option for certain applications.
- It is still very reliable for most installations, but a little less easy to handle in confined spaces.
2. PER (High-density cross-linked polyethylene)
PER is similar to PEX, but slightly less flexible.
- Why is it used? It is robust and can withstand high temperatures. It is often used in simpler systems or for low-budget installations.
- Bonus: it is often more impact-resistant (and therefore more suitable for harsher construction sites).
3. Multilayer
As its name suggests, it is composed of several layers: a layer of aluminum in the middle, surrounded by two layers of plastic.
- Why is this beneficial? The aluminum in the center acts as a barrier to oxygen and increases resistance to heat and pressure.
- Advantage: it is slightly more rigid than PEX or PER, but this allows for greater precision when installing the circuits.