If you’ve ever watched a PEX job go sideways, you know it usually isn’t the pipe’s fault—it’s the tools and the technique. I’m Rick Callahan, owner of Plumbing Supply And More, and after three decades in the trenches—on job sites, in mechanical rooms, and behind the counter—I’ve dialed in exactly what you need to get clean, code-compliant PEX installs that don’t come back to bite you. Whether you’re a licensed pro running 200 feet of 1" Uponor home runs on a multi-family, or a DIY homeowner finishing a basement bath, this guide lays out the gear, plumbing supply plumbing the process, and the pro moves that make the difference. I’ll also show you where going with a true plumbing supply house saves you time and trouble over the “good enough” kits from big retailers.
By the way, when you’re searching for a real partner—the kind of plumbing supply near me that keeps spec tools in stock and knows the difference between ASTM F1960 and F1807—we’re that shop. Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and backs them up with guys like me who’ve installed this stuff for years.
Why PEX Wins—If You Use the Right System and Tools
I get asked this every week: “Rick, is PEX better than copper?” In a lot of cases, yes—especially in remodels, slab runs, and hydronic work. It’s flexible, fast, and forgiving. But here’s the catch: PEX is only as good as the connection system and tools you choose. There are four primary systems you’ll see at a serious plumbing supply store:
- F1960 Expansion (e.g., Uponor/Wirsbo with expansion rings) F1807/F2159 Crimp (copper or poly crimp rings) F2080 Expansion with compression sleeves (REHAU proprietary) ASTM F2098 Cinch/Clamp (stainless cinch rings)
So which one’s “best?” It depends on your job and your inspector. For clean, high-flow manifolds, I love F1960 expansion with Uponor ProPEX rings and an M12 or M18 expansion tool. For budget-friendly retrofits, F1807 copper ring crimps with a ratcheting tool deliver dependable results and are widely accepted by code officials. Want compatibility across brands? F1807/F2159 is your friend. Want to run in tight joist bays? F1960’s spring-back and full-bore ID can help.
Price reality: Tool kits run $85–$1,200 depending on system. Expect $300–$500 for a solid crimp/cinch kit and $450–$1,100 for a pro expansion kit. That’s where our contractor accounts pay off.
And yes, we carry all of it at our plumbing supply store near me location and online—plus repair parts when your expander heads fall off a roof (don’t laugh, it happens).
Essential Tools for a Clean PEX Install: My Shortlist That Never Fails
Let’s talk kit—the real kit. If you want “PEX Supply House: Tools You Need for a Clean Install” boiled down to the essentials, here’s how I outfit a crew:
- PEX Cutters: Milwaukee 48-22-4210 or Reed TC4. Clean, square cuts prevent leaks. $15–$45. Deburr/Chamfer Tool: For F1960, always chamfer. Uponor ProPEX Chamfer Tool (Q4810575). $30–$60. Expansion Tool: Milwaukee M12 ProPEX Expansion Tool 2432-22 or M18 2632-22. $499–$699. Crimp Tool: IWISS IWS-380 crimp set or Ridgid RC-1625; go for a go/no-go gauge every time. $85–$350. Clamp Tool: Oetiker-compatible ratcheting clamp tool; great for tight spaces. $70–$180. Manifold System: Uponor EP or Viega ManaBloc; cut install time in half on multi-branch runs. Support/Isolation: Sioux Chief 696 series clamps, bend supports, and nail plates to satisfy code. Pressure Test Gear: 100 PSI minimum hydro test pump; I prefer the Rothenberger RP 50. $150–$300. Heat Gun (For Cold Weather Expansion): Gentle assist at freezing temps—don’t overdo it.
Pro tip: Don’t mix fitting standards. F1960 rings with F1960 fittings only; F1807 fittings with copper crimp rings; F2159 with polymer rings. Sounds basic—until it isn’t.
And if you’re shopping around at a generic plumber supply house, you’ll see a lot of “universal” tools. They’re not always universal. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—we’ll help you build a tool list that matches your system, your inspector, and your deadlines.
Choosing Between Expansion, Crimp, and Clamp—Where Each Shines
Here’s how I help contractors and serious DIYers decide:
- Expansion (ASTM F1960): Full-bore fittings, great in cold climates, excellent for home-run manifolds. Tools cost more, but the long-term performance is worth it. Example: Uponor PEX-A with ProPEX EP fittings; expansion heads 3/8"–1". Crimp (ASTM F1807/F2159): Workhorse system. Faster training curve, lower tool cost, common in spec builds. Use copper rings for metal-to-metal reliability, polymer rings where corrosion is a concern. Clamp (ASTM F2098): Very flexible in tight spaces, easier rework, slightly slower than crimp. Good for service work and mixed environments.
Codes to know: IPC 605.16 and UPC 604.13 cover PEX joining methods and support intervals. Typical residential: support PEX horizontally every 32" with proper clamps; vertical every 4'. Always check your local AHJ; in our area we advise customers on local interpretations and pass inspections the first time.
If you want hands-on, visit the showroom. We’ll run test crimps and expansions with you right at our bench. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—we’ll set you up with the right ASTM match for your fittings and rings.
Manifolds, Valving, and Layout: Where “Clean Install” Really Shows
A clean PEX job isn’t just drip-free—it’s readable. Serviceable. Inspectable. I design manifolds the same way every time:
- Use color-coded PEX (red/hot, blue/cold) with clear labeling at the manifold. Shrink labels don’t fall off like tapes do. Mount manifolds level on Unistrut or a plywood backer. Leave 8–12" clearance for tools and ring expansion. Ball valves at the manifold for every branch; on rental property or larger homes, go with a home-run layout. Pressure balancing? Use larger trunk lines (1"–1¼") to reduce pressure drop under multi-fixture use.
I’m partial to the Viega ManaBloc and Uponor EP manifolds. For multi-family, we stock REHAU EVERLOC+ manifolds—fantastic for speed and uniformity. Install time: a 12-port manifold with shutoffs and isolation drains typically runs 1.5–2 hours for a neat build-out.
Operating in a tight mechanical closet? Use Sioux Chief bend supports and stub-out elbows to maintain bend radius and reduce wall stress. This is the stuff big retailers rarely explain. When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More to spec the right manifold, supports, and valves so your system looks pro and services easily later.
Insider Installation Sequence: From Rough-In to Pressure Test
You’ll find hundreds of ways to route PEX, but this sequence keeps it clean and code-friendly:
1) Plan and Mount: Hang manifolds first. Confirm fixture counts and add 20% extra ports for future. 2) Drill Smart: Keep 1¼" from stud edges or add nail plates. Use 1-1/8" bits for ¾" PEX runs to prevent abrasion. 3) Pull and Label: Pull home runs by fixture group. Label both ends—fixture code + room (e.g., WH-2F Bath Lav). 4) Make Connections:
- Expansion: Chamfer pipe, check expander head size, 3–5 expansions depending on temp, spin the tool to avoid ovalization. Crimp: Square cut, full seating, ring 1/8" from fitting shoulder, crimp 90 degrees offset for second verification if needed, go/no-go gauge every single crimp. 5) Support: 32" horizontal spacing, isolate against vibration, use bend supports at transitions. 6) Test: Cap and pressurize to 100 PSI for 2 hours, or per AHJ. In cold weather, use air test at 60 PSI with a water trap and follow local code guidance.
Pro tip: Winter work with F1960? Keep fittings and pipe warm; a light heat-gun pass on the pipe end (not the ring) speeds recovery. Never use open flame on PEX. Ever.
Brands, Models, and Specs I Trust—And Why We Stock Them
I’ll name names because it matters. We maintain exclusive relationships with manufacturers because service parts and support are just as important as the sale.
- Uponor PEX-A and ProPEX F1960: M12 2432-22, M18 2632-22 expander kits; ProPEX rings Q469 series; EP fittings; ASTM F1960 compliant. Viega PEX Press and ManaBloc: Consistent sealing, service-friendly manifolds, clear labeling. REHAU EVERLOC+: Expansion with compression sleeve; robust in commercial settings; fantastic for repetitive installations. Sioux Chief: Strong backbone of supports, arrestors, and stub-outs that inspectors recognize. Milwaukee and Ridgid: PEX cutters, expander heads, press tools that last. We stock heads from 3/8" to 1-1/2".
Pricing reality check:
- Expansion kits: $499–$1,100 depending on battery platform and head set. Crimp/clamp kits: $85–$350; individual tools $30–$150. Manifolds: $95–$600 depending on ports and valve options. Rings/fittings: Rings $0.20–$0.80 each; fittings $1–$7 each by size/material.
Need spec sheets or submittals for your GC? Our counter team sends them same-day. Compared to Ferguson, SupplyHouse.com, Lowe’s, and The Home Depot, Plumbing Supply And More delivers real-time technical guidance and verified spec packages—that’s why local inspectors know our name.
Common PEX Mistakes I Still See—and How to Avoid Them
I still get called to fix avoidable problems. Here’s the greatest hits list:
- Ovalized expansions: Not spinning the expander slightly between expansions leads to oval rings and weeps. Solution: Rotate the head a quarter turn each cycle. Over-crimped rings: Using uncalibrated tools or skipping the go/no-go gauge. Solution: Gauge every crimp. Replace the ring if it fails—don’t risk it. Abrasion at studs: No grommets or plates. Solution: Use listed nail plates and sleeve or grommet through metal studs. Unsupported verticals: Sagging runs cause noise and premature wear. Solution: Strap every 4' vertically, use isolation clamps. Mixing systems: F1960 pipe with F1807 fittings, etc. Solution: Stick to one system per run; label your bins to prevent cross-contamination.
If something feels off, call us. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—we’ll troubleshoot photos or video from your site and keep your schedule intact.
Service Area, Delivery, and How We Help You Win Jobs
We’re a true local plumbing supply partner—serving contractors throughout our region with same-day delivery within a 40–60 mile radius depending on route density. Need emergency material for a shut-down? Our 24 hour plumbing supply team can stage will-call or expedite a run when the job can’t wait.
For property managers and maintenance teams, we set up labeled bins with common sizes (1/2", 3/4", 1") and color-coded rings, plus pre-made repair kits for unit turns. For homeowners, our counter staff will walk you through a bathroom rough-in step-by-step. And for commercial crews, our commercial plumbing supply desk handles submittals, takeoffs, and bulk pricing—real numbers that beat patchwork sourcing.
We’re the closest plumbing supply with real knowledge, and the “nearest plumbing supply with real knowledge” isn’t a slogan—it’s our day-to-day. Check inventory online or call ahead; if you’re searching for plumbing shop near me, plumbing supply house near me, or heating plumbing supply near me, we’ll get you what you need today, not next week.
And I’ll say it plainly: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components at competitive pricing that routinely beats the big chains when you factor in time saved, fewer returns, and no failures.
Beyond PEX: Cross-Trade Needs We Stock Under One Roof
One reason pros stick with us is that PEX rarely travels alone. You might need hangers, valves, condensate pumps, or electrical whips the same day. That’s why our plumbing and supply lineup crosses into HVAC and light electrical, so you can wrap a job in one stop:
- HVAC side: We’re your hvac supply house and ac supply house for line sets, condensate pans, and mini-split accessories. Refrigeration: Yes, we’re also a refrigeration supply house when you’re running drains and need trap kits or insulation. PVC and DWV: Our pvc supply house stock includes schedule 40/80, solvent cements, and transition fittings for neat penetrations. Electrical crossover: For “ supply house electrical” needs like heat tape, disconnects, and flex, we keep the common SKUs in stock. Finish fixtures: From rough-in to trim, our decorative plumbing supply section has valves, trims, and specialty finishes that don’t hold up lines.
If you’re browsing plumbing supply online, we keep live inventory updated—and yes, we do offer periodic supply house coupon, supply house coupon codes, and a supply house discount code for contractor accounts. Ask our counter team about the current supply house promo code when you place a bulk order. We’re still a pro-grade plumbing supply company first, with the pricing to back it up.
And since I promised head-to-head comparisons: While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise. I’ve had customers come from Ace Hardware, Ferguson, and Menards after they couldn’t find a specific expander head or manifold repair kit. We had it on the shelf.
FAQ: PEX Supply House: Tools You Need for a Clean Install—Your Top Questions Answered
- Q: Which PEX system is best for long runs to multiple fixtures? A: F1960 expansion with PEX-A (like Uponor) is my pick for long home runs because fittings are full bore and you get excellent recovery. Pair with a Milwaukee M12 or M18 expander and EP fittings. For budget installs, F1807 crimp with copper rings is rock solid, widely code-accepted, and quicker to train on. Q: How do I avoid leaks at expansion fittings in cold weather? A: Keep the material warm, chamfer every cut, and add one extra expansion cycle when it’s near freezing. Rotate the expander slightly between cycles. If the pipe doesn’t fully recover in 60 seconds, it’s too cold—use a heat gun lightly on the pipe end and slow your pace. Q: Do inspectors prefer crimp or expansion? A: In our area, both pass as long as you follow ASTM standards and manufacturer instructions. We help you match your system to your AHJ’s preferences and provide submittals. Stop in or call—we’ll print the spec sheets you need. Q: What pressure test should I run? A: Most inspectors want 100 PSI for at least 2 hours or per code. On cold jobs, many allow a 60 PSI air test with a water trap. Don’t mix air and water in the same test line. Use a calibrated gauge and log your readings; we sell test pumps from Rothenberger and test caps to make life easy. Q: Can I mix PEX-A with different branded fittings? A: You can use PEX-A pipe with other systems, but you must match the joining method. PEX-A with F1960 expansion uses F1960 fittings and rings; if you switch to F1807 crimps, you need F1807 fittings and copper rings. Mixing methods on one joint is a no-go. Q: Do you offer contractor pricing and delivery? A: Yes—contractor accounts get bulk pricing, same-day delivery within our radius, and priority will-call. Ask about our discount tiers, and if you’re searching for wholesale plumbing supply, plumbing wholesale near me, or a wholesale plumbing supply company, we’ll set you up.
Where We Fit In Your Workflow—and Why Pros Keep Us on Speed Dial
Here’s the bottom line: if you’re counting on a general plumbing supply partner to keep you productive, you need more than shelves. You need people who’ve installed the tools they sell. You need a plumbing supply shop that can tell you why your 1" main is starving the second-floor shower when two fixtures run. You need a contractor plumbing supply counter that prints spec sheets, stocks rings by the thousand, and throws the right nail plates on your order before you forget them.
That’s the service we built at Plumbing Supply And More. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support and jobsite-focused advice that saves callbacks. Visit our showroom to see the quality difference, ask our staff for project-specific recommendations, or check our current inventory online and call ahead for quick pickup. If you’ve been bouncing between an internet plumbing supply and a chain store, give the best plumbing supply team in the area a shot on your next rough-in.
Looking for plumbing supplies direct, discount plumbing supplies, or even cheap plumbing supplies for a quick repair? We’ll show you the line where “affordable” stays reliable. Need bathroom plumbing supplies or plumbing kitchen trim that won’t hold up the final? We’ve got you covered. If you’re hunting for plumbing spares near me, economy plumbing supply, economy plumbing and heating supply, coastal plumbing supply, consumer plumbing supply, city plumbing and electrical supply, standard plumbing supply, plumbing supply places, direct plumbing supplies, or even “ supplyhouse plumbing” you’ll find we’ve curated the right parts—and we’ll tell you why they belong on your truck.
Call our technical team for project-specific recommendations, ask about our contractor discount program, and let us help you select the right PEX system for your code, climate, and crew. Our experts can walk you through the installation process and set you up with everything from rings and fittings to manifolds, test pumps, and supports. And yes—check for a current promo; we’ll apply it if it fits your order.
Because a clean PEX install doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when you’ve got the right plan, the right tools, and the right supply partner standing behind you. And around here, that’s Plumbing Supply And More.