Many don't realize the differences between the two, so here are some main differences that should help you understand why you may want either pex tubing or pex-aluminum-pex (pex-al-pex) tubing.

Pex
ASTM F876/877
Available in Non-Barrier and Oxygen Barrier
Connection methods: crimp, cinch, compression, push-fit and expansion
Based on Nominal Size, i.e. 1" pex = 0.875" ID
Tubing has a memory, if you bend the tubing and let go, it will go back to where it was
Cheaper & more readily available

Pex-Al-Pex (Pex-Aluminum-Pex)
ASTM F1281
Aluminum layer creates 100% oxygen barrier in all pex-al-pex tubing
Connection methods: crimp, compression and press
    *all pex-al-pex connection methods require you ream the end of the tubing
Based On ID, i.e. 1" pex-al-pex = 1.03" ID
Tubing has no memory, if you bend the tubing and let go, it will stay where you put it
Minimal thermal expansion
Because the tubing is more rigid, it does not have to be suspended as frequently
Kinks easier
Cost more than straight pex

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