Besides being durable and resistant to corrosion, one of the main reasons why people love PEX pipes is that they are straightforward to install.
This makes them very popular among DIY folk who don’t have many technical plumbing skills. Though easy to install, if you’re dealing with tight spaces, you may be forced to run PEX pipes through studs, which are the vertical frames in your wall.
Such a setup can be confusing for DIY plumbers, so I have created a detailed guide on how to run PEX through studs correctly.
Can You Run PEX Through Studs?
Yes, you can run PEX pipes through studs.
While there may be conflicting opinions online, it’s important to note that many PEX plumbing systems have been successfully installed through studs or building framing.
There are plenty of benefits that come with such a setup.
Reasons to Run PEX Through Studs
Most people assume tight space is the only reason you may be interested in running a PEX pipe through studs. But here are plenty of advantages you can get from this PEX installation approach;
• Running PEX through studs allows you to hide plumbing fixtures, thus enhancing the overall beauty of your interior.
• Hiding PEX pipes behind the walls also protects them from impact or damage that might puncture them.
• If your walls are insulated, so will the PEX pipes, improving energy efficiency.
• Running PEX through studs dampens water noises.
• When you run PEX through studs, you have more room to customize the plumbing layout.
• In some areas, the local codes require plumbing fixtures installed within wall studs. Following such an approach ensures compliance.
A Guide on Running PEX Pipes Through Studs
Now that we know it’s acceptable to run PEX pipes through studs and that such a setup has many benefits, let’s dive into the installation process.
Before we start, I assure you that running PEX pipes through studs is easy. You don’t even need to hire a professional plumber. Follow the steps below, and everything should work out just fine.
Step 1: Design the Ideal Layout
You can’t start drilling holes in studs without a plan. You need to follow a unique sequence while considering factors such as the location of the plumbing fixtures, nearby outlets, and much more.
First, consider the starting height off the floor. Starting at least 6 inches above the finished floor is typically advisable to avoid potential damage from foot traffic and floor maintenance.
Also, ensure that the routing of PEX pipes complies with local building codes, which may dictate specific heights and clearances to maintain functionality and safety.
Step 2: Mark and Drill Holes in the Studs
Once you have a route, make marks on strategic points along your studs and drill holes big enough to accommodate PEX pipes. I always advise my readers to drill holes at the center of the studs.
This ensures the structural integrity of the frame isn’t compromised. Most studs are wood, so drilling holes would be a breeze.
You must ensure the holes drilled are the correct size to maintain structural integrity and allow for pipe expansion. A standard recommendation is to drill holes with a diameter of at least 1/4 inch larger than the diameter of the PEX pipe. This allows for movement while minimizing the risk of damaging the pipe or compromising the stud.
Step 3: Add a Layer of Protection Around the Drilled Holes
Some people install the PEX tubes directly inside the drilled holes. But remember, wood or even metal studs tend to be rough. And the friction experienced inside the hole can puncture a PEX pipe.
So, it’s advisable to add some protection around the drilled hole. Spray foam is an excellent material for protecting your PEX pipe from the studs.
Step 4: Start Running the PEX Through the Drilled Holes
This should be very easy because PEX pipes are flexible. Run them until they reach your desired outlet. You could leave them like that, but using a fastener is best to secure them in position. PEX clips come in very handy in this step.
Step 5: Connect the PEX to a Water Source and Let It Run
You’re not done yet. Connect the PEX pipe to a water source and inspect for leaks. If everything is okay, you can close the walls and enjoy your new plumbing fixture. It’s that easy!
How to Support PEX Running Through Studs?
One key factor to remember when running PEX through studs is sufficient support. Without support, the PEX tubes won’t be able to provide proper water flow and are at a higher risk of damage.
To effectively support PEX pipes through studs, secure clamps or straps should be placed every 32 to 48 inches along the pipe’s length. This spacing ensures that the PEX pipe is adequately supported, reducing the risk of sagging or vibrations leading to wear or damage over time.
It’s also essential that the pipes are positioned at the center of the studs, and the clips used shouldn’t have sharp edges, as these can puncture the pipe.
Will Running PEX Through Studs Weaken the Frame/Walls?
Running PEX through studs is unlikely to weaken them because these pipes are incredibly lightweight and flexible.
If your PEX pipes are adequately supported and secured, you don’t have to worry about your studs or framing becoming weak.
However, there is one thing you need to be very careful of – and that’s the size of the drilled holes. If you drill holes that are too big, you will lower the structural integrity of the stud.
What are The Risks of Running PEX Through Studs?
This is usually a very straightforward procedure that’s free of severe risks. However, a few things may go wrong. Familiarizing yourself with these risks is crucial as it educates you on what to avoid.
• The PEX pipes may rub against the studs, leading to premature wear. Therefore, you need to protect your PEX pipes.
• If your walls are not adequately insulated, water flowing through the PEX pipes can transmit noise, thus interfering with indoor comfort.
• If the PEX pipes will be transmitting hot or cold water, the expansion and contraction of the pipes can overwork the fittings.
• Should someone unknowingly drive a nail into the studs, they can puncture the PEX pipes.
• If you do not provide sufficient support, prepare to experience interrupted water flow.
Should You Drill a Larger Hole When Running PEX Through Studs?
As tempting as it may be, never drill a larger hole when running PEX through studs. Doing so comes with many drawbacks. For instance, the larger the hole, the weaker the stud.
Also, it won’t be easy to support or secure a PEX pipe if the hole on the stud is too big. The lack of support can increase friction between the pipe and the stud, thus leading to punctures and leaks.
You need to drill a hole that is ideally a few inches wider than the diameter of the PEX pipe. PEX pipes only expand by a few inches. Therefore, you don’t have to drill an abnormally large hole through your studs.
How do you ensure PEX running through the studs lasts long?
If installed correctly, PEX running through studs can last for years, if not decades. Be as it may, here are a few tips to ensure your plumbing system serves you for longer;
• Invest in quality PEX pipes, clips, and even wall studs.
• Ensure there is room for expansion and contraction.
• Provide sufficient support.
• Avoid direct contact between PEX pipes and wall studs as much as possible.
• Regularly inspect the condition of your plumbing system.
• Be careful when working on your walls.