It comes in rolls, and is cut to length with a ratcheting cutter like is used for rigid PVC [Poly Vinyl Chloride] pipe. The natural color is translucent white, but most plumbers use blue for cold and red for hot. Yes, it is suitable for hot water.
It is crimped onto brass fittings with copper rings. The crimpers cost about $100, and usually two are needed - one for 1/2" and one for 3/4" PEX tubing. Around here, you can rent the crimpers for $10 per day.
PEX can be imbedded in concrete floors for hydronic heating purposes.
I can tell you that ALL new homes in my part of North Carolina use PEX for potable water. (I installed Type L Copper in the house I am building, because I'm a traditionalist, I guess. I sorta' wish I had used PEX, now.)
Are we talking about the same (or similar) tubing with a different (brass) coupler here?
That was a very good, concise description of PEX. Well done!
Thanks for the info.
I had not heard of this stuff before.
I think I'd prefer traditional copper myself, until the PEX proves out over the long haul.
My rule of thumb: Plastic is OK for drainage lines, but I'd prefer metal for pressurized supply, hot or cold.
I've just seen too many plastic hoses burst over the years and prefer hard plumbing.