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In recent years, the Canadian plumbing and heating industry has seen a major shift toward PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) piping. Known for its flexibility, durability, and resistance to freezing and corrosion, PEX has become the go-to material for modern plumbing systems across Canada. Whether it’s for potable water distribution, radiant floor heating, or residential fire sprinkler systems, PEX is now a trusted solution in both new builds and renovation projects.
Canada’s PEX Market at a Glance
Today, over 70% of residential plumbing systems in Canada use PEX, far outpacing older materials like CPVC. This strong market presence is driven by its easy installation, long service life, and ability to handle extreme temperatures – a key advantage in Canada’s often harsh and varied climate.
As demand continues to grow, with the Canadian PEX market expected to reach $15.8 billion by 2030, industry professionals need reliable partners to supply high-quality piping systems. This is especially important with rising construction activity, infrastructure upgrades, and the replacement of aging Kitec plumbing systems.
This article presents a curated list of the 10 best PEX pipe suppliers and manufacturers in Canada. Whether you’re a contractor, distributor, or project manager, this guide will help you identify top-performing companies based on their product quality, market reputation, innovation, and commitment to sustainability.
Essential Criteria for Selecting Canada’s Top PEX Pipe Suppliers
When identifying the leading PEX pipe manufacturers and suppliers in Canada, we evaluated each company based on the following five essential criteria:
1. Company Profile & Industry Experience
A supplier’s background reveals its reliability and expertise. We considered companies with a strong industry presence, Canadian market focus, proven track records, and leadership in piping systems. Years of operation, technical know-how, and brand reputation are key indicators of long-term reliability.
2. Product Quality & Certifications
We prioritized suppliers that offer PEX piping systems certified to meet Canadian and international standards, such as:
CSA B137.5 – Canadian standard for cross-linked polyethylene piping systems.
NSF 61 – Ensures safety for drinking water applications.
ASTM F876/F877 – North American performance standards for PEX tubing.
3. Product Range
Top-tier suppliers typically offer more than just basic PEX tubing. Favored companies always provide:
- Multiple types of PEX (PEX-a, PEX-b, etc.)
- Compatible fittings and valves
- Full piping systems for plumbing, radiant heating, or hydronic applications
A broader product range gives professionals and distributors more flexibility and integration.
4. Market Share & Distribution Capability
National reach and strong distribution networks are crucial. We assessed:
- Availability across provinces
- Support for residential, commercial, or industrial-scale projects
- Ability to supply large quantities reliably and on time
Suppliers with larger market share often offer better logistics, technical support, and after-sales service.
5. Sustainability & Environmental Commitment
Environmental responsibility is increasingly important. We gave preference to suppliers that:
Use recyclable or low-impact materials
Maintain environmentally friendly manufacturing practices
Support green building initiatives (e.g., LEED certification compatibility)
Sustainable practices reflect a company’s forward-thinking mindset and alignment with modern building standards.
Top 10 PEX Pipe Suppliers in Canada
IPEX Inc.
Founded in 1951, IPEX Inc. has grown into one of Canada’s premier manufacturers of thermoplastic piping, based in Ontario and operating multiple facilities across Canada and the U.S. With over 70 years of industry history, IPEX delivers a broad portfolio of products under systems like AquaRise® and Plumbetter®. These systems are widely used in residential, commercial, and municipal applications – demonstrating the company’s deep-rooted expertise and national market leadership.
Product Quality & Certifications
IPEX PEX piping is CSA B137.5 certified, meeting Canada’s national standard for PEX systems used in potable water, radiant heating, snow-melting, and similar applications. Additional certifications commonly associated with their systems include ASTM F876/F877 and NSF 61 compliance, ensuring safe performance for drinking water. Their AquaRise line also includes CPVC ball valves certified to CSA B137.6 and NSF/ANSI 61, specifically designed for potable and heating applications.
Product Range
IPEX provides a full-suite solution under its AquaRise and Plumbetter brands, offering:
PEX tubing (primarily PEX‑B types)
System-compatible fittings (polymer and brass)
Crimp rings, clamps, and installation tools
Manifolds, valves, and other plumbing accessories
They also supply PVC, CPVC, and ABS systems, making them a one-stop supplier for comprehensive plumbing infrastructure across diverse applications.
Market Share
IPEX has one of the most extensive manufacturing and distribution networks in Canada, with facilities and distribution centers across major provinces. Their nationwide product availability, through plumbing wholesalers and construction channels, makes them a key supplier in various markets from residential installations to large-scale industrial projects.
Sustainability Commitment
IPEX emphasizes sustainability through practices focused on waste reduction, energy efficiency, and material recycling. The company supports green-building standards, with product applications aligned with LEED designation requirements. Their commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing contributes significantly to long-term infrastructure sustainability in Canada.
Rehau Canada
Company Profile & Industry Experience
REHAU is a global polymer solutions leader, originally founded in Germany in 1948, and operating in over 160 locations worldwide with 20,000+ employees. In Canada, REHAU is known for its premium PEXa pipe systems, including the MUNICIPEX® brand. These systems are widely used in plumbing, hydronic heating, snow-melt, turf conditioning, and fire-sprinkler applications. With more than 50 years of PEXa innovation, REHAU offers a dependable and patented polyethylene product portfolio backed by industry-leading support.
Product Quality & Certifications
Their flagship RAUPEX® PEXa pipe and fittings meet stringent standards such as:
CSA B137.5
ASTM F876 / F877
NSF/ANSI 61 and NSF/ANSI 14
AWWA C904 for water service applications
These certifications ensure compliance with Canadian building codes and safe potable water use.
Product Range
REHAU’s product suite includes:
- MUNICIPEX® potable water service tubing
- RAUPEX® O₂‑barrier pipe for radiant heating and cooling systems
- RAUGEO™ multilayer pipe for geothermal ground loop applications
- Accessories like EVERLOC+ compression fittings, PRO‑BALANCE® manifolds, and installation tools
This wide portfolio allows them to cater to plumbing, hydronics, municipal, and geo‑exchange applications under one system.
Market Share & Distribution Capability
While REHAU signals a strategic shift away from commodity municipal PVC supply, they remain deeply committed to advanced PEXa systems for plumbing, heating, and fire protection across Canada. Their western Canada distribution is notably strengthened through an expanded partnership with Equipco Ltd., giving enhanced dealer support in BC, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Contractors, engineers, and designers rely on REHAU’s structured technical and project assistance, engaging REHAU and Equipco to ensure proper specification and support throughout installation.
Sustainability Commitment
REHAU’s PEXa systems inherently support environmentally conscious construction. The long lifespan, resistance to corrosion, and reduced leak risk contribute to less material waste and lower environmental impact. Additionally, their piping products support green-building standards, backed by warranty programs and materials optimized for durability.
SharkBite
Company Profile
SharkBite, part of Reliance Worldwide Corporation (RWC) – a global leader established in 1949, is renowned for push‑to‑connect plumbing solutions that revolutionized modern installations. In Canada, SharkBite products are distributed widely and feature prominently in residential, commercial, and renovation markets. With over two decades in North America, SharkBite has established itself as an innovation-driven, trade-preferred plumbing systems supplier.
Product Quality & Certifications
SharkBite’s PEX tubing and fittings comply with major Canadian and North American standards:
CSA B137.5 (PEX tubing)
NSF/ANSI 61 (potable water safety)
ASTM F876 / F877 (PEX-A/PEX-B performance)
AWWA C904 (water service lines)
Additionally, push-to-connect fittings are ASSE 1061 certified and compatible with multiple pipe materials – PEX, copper, CPVC, PE-RT, and HDPE.
Product Range
SharkBite offers a comprehensive suite under one roof:
- Potable PEX-A and PEX-B tubing, including oxygen-barrier and reclaimed-water variants
- EvoPEX™ and ProLock expansion fittings for PEX-A
- Universal push-to-connect fittings for various pipe types
- Max Push™ fittings, rated up to 400 psi and 200 °F, no liner required
- Tools, cramps, clamps, and installation accessories
These products work together seamlessly for everything from rough-in plumbing to emergency repairs.
Market Share
SharkBite maintains strong market penetration in Canada through partnerships with trade wholesalers and distributors. Their push‑to‑connect systems are especially popular for service repairs, residential retrofits, and small-scale installs. With manufacturing concentrated in RWC’s advanced U.S. facility in Cullman, Alabama, SharkBite leverages efficient sourcing and quality control for North American distribution. Canadian availability is enhanced via major plumbing supply chains and localized service support.
Sustainability & Environmental Commitment
While SharkBite’s emphasis is operational efficiency and ease of installation, their PEX products deliver environmental advantages by minimizing leak potential, reducing material waste over a long service life, and supporting efficient thermal performance in plumbing systems. The green benefits of durable, freeze-resistant PEX also resonate with LEED-compatible installations, backed by SharkBite’s industry-leading 25-year warranty when used as part of a complete system.
Conduit de Ledes
Company Profile
Conduit de Ledes is a global manufacturer known for its high-quality plastic conduit systems and electrical solutions. With its roots in industrial-grade polymer engineering, Ledes has earned a strong reputation in international markets, including Canada, the United States, and Australia. The company is particularly recognized for its innovation, reliable supply chains, and commitment to industry compliance.
Main Products
Ledes specializes in a wide range of PVC electrical conduit, LSZH (Low Smoke Halogen-Free) conduit, and solar conduit systems designed for high-performance applications in data centers, industrial infrastructure, and renewable energy projects. Their offerings include rigid and corrugated conduits, adaptable boxes, fittings, and accessories, all compliant with international standards like UL, CSA, and AS/NZS.
New Development – PEX Pipe Launch
In response to growing market demand in the plumbing and radiant heating sectors, Ledes is preparing to launch a new line of PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes. This new product category will bring the company’s manufacturing expertise and commitment to durability into the residential and commercial plumbing space. The PEX line will aim to meet Canadian market requirements and offer high flexibility, chemical resistance, and long-term performance.
Sustainability & Vision
Ledes maintains a strong focus on environmental responsibility, employing recyclable materials and energy-efficient manufacturing practices. The company’s expansion into PEX piping reflects its broader vision to diversify product offerings while supporting sustainable infrastructure development in North America.
GF Building Flow Solutions
Company Profile
GF Building Flow Solutions, a division of Swiss-based Georg Fischer AG, is a global leader in piping solutions. In April 2024, GF consolidated its Uponor brand under the new name, combining GF Piping Systems and Uponor’s building-technology operations into a unified global platform. With roots stretching back to 1802, the company now employs around 20,000 people across 30 countries, generating over CHF 4 billion in annual revenue.
Product Quality & Certifications
The Uponor-branded PEX products, particularly AquaPEX® PEX‑A tubing and ProPEX® fittings, are widely recognized for excellence in both Canada and North America. Certifications include:
CSA B137.5
ASTM F876 / F877
NSF/ANSI 61 for potable water safety
AWWA C904 for water service applications
Their patented Quick & Easy (Q&E) expansion fittings (compliant with ASTM F1960) promote secure, imprint-free joints that outperform many traditional systems.
Product Range
GF Building Flow Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of plumbing and hydronic solutions, including:
PEX‑A tubing (AquaPEX®) for plumbing and radiant heat
ProPEX® expansion fittings and manifolds
Pre-insulated PEX systems (via GF Urecon / Kingspan Logstor) for snow-melt, hydronic loops, and district heating
Complementary CPVC systems like the recently launched ChlorFIT® for commercial applications, designed to integrate seamlessly with their PEX systems.
Market Share & Distribution Capability
Uponor’s systems are widely available throughout Canada via plumbing wholesalers and distribution networks. The Q&E PEX systems are favored by engineers and contractors for rapid installation and high performance. The integration with GF Piping Systems gives the brand enhanced manufacturing scale and global technical support.
Sustainability & Environmental Commitment
GF Building Flow Solutions demonstrates leadership in sustainability:
In 2023, they released a global Sustainability Review aligned with GRI standards, detailing decarbonization across production and product innovation.
They introduced the world’s first circular PEX pipe made from manufacturing waste and operating fully carbon-neutral factories in Europe.
Their product durability, leak resistance, and material efficiency contribute to long-term environmental performance, supporting LEED and green building goals.
Industrial Blansol, S.A.
Company Profile
Based in Spain, Industrial Blansol, S.A. is a long‐standing family firm with over six decades of expertise in plastic pipe systems and brass fittings dating back to the 1950s and 1960s respectively. Despite being headquartered in Europe, Blansol exports to more than 50 countries and offers PEX solutions to North American distributors, making it a notable international player.
Product Quality & Certifications
Blansol manufactures both PEX‑A and PEX‑B pipes in-house, using advanced technologies such as peroxide cross-linking for PEX‑A and “Monosil” for PEX‑B, which enhances pressure resistance by about 35% compared to other methods. Their piping systems comply with European standard EN 15875‑2 and have certifications from agencies in Spain (AENOR), France (CSTB), the UK, and the Netherlands.
Product Range
Blansol’s offerings are robust and diverse, including:
- Nude PEX-A and PEX-B tubing (coils or bars)
- Insulated or EVOH/oxygen-barrier variations
- Corrugated pipe-in-pipe (single and double DUO formats) for easy replacement and thermal control
- PEX-Al-PEX and PERT-Al-PERT multilayer systems
- Proprietary fitting systems: Barbi (sliding), Easypress (press-fit), Rayper (expansion-ring), MultiPex, and ixPress2 push-fit fittings
Moreover, they offer both brass and PPSU fittings, with PPSU providing a modern, high-performance alternative at competitive cost.
Market Share
Blansol sells directly from its factories in Cantabria (Spain) and Palau de Plegamans (Barcelona), removing intermediaries and enabling competitive pricing globally, including Canada. While they are not a Canadian-based manufacturer, their strong supply chain and direct-sales model serve international distributors and wholesalers effectively.
Sustainability & Environmental Commitment
Blansol emphasizes in-house vertical integration, advanced automation, and comprehensive design and testing capabilities, all contributing to quality consistency and reduced waste. Their EVOH and insulated piping solutions support energy efficiency and improved thermal performance – essential for long-term eco-conscious installation strategies.
Viega Canada (Viega LLC)
Company Profile
Viega is a family-owned global leader in plumbing and HVAC solutions, originally founded in 1899 in Germany and operating in over 30 countries, including Canada. In Canada, Viega products are distributed through a network of plumbing wholesalers and professional contractors. Known for pushing innovation in press fittings and PEX systems, Viega has earned an elite reputation among engineers and installers. Their presence in Canada is backed by decades of excellence in high-performance piping solutions.
Product Quality & Certifications
Viega offers PureFlow PEX tubing (PEX‑B) and PureFlow press/crimp fittings engineered for performance and reliability. Their products are certified to:
CSA B137.5 (PEX tubing standard in Canada)
ASTM F876 / F877
NSF/ANSI 61 for potable water
NSF/ANSI 14 for plumbing drain waste and vent systems
Their PureFlow valves and fittings include Smart Connect technology, which provides a visual indicator of proper pressing—enhancing installation quality and safety.
Product Range
Viega’s solutions include:
- PureFlow PEX tubing in 3/8″ to 2″ sizes, with excellent UV and chlorine resistance
- PureFlow press and crimp fittings, including compact valves and manifolds
- ManaBloc™ distribution manifolds, offering individual shut-off control for branch lines
- Press systems ProPress and MegaPress, which support transitions to copper, steel, and other piping materials – all operable via a single press tool
These integrated systems enable high-efficiency installations across residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
Market Share
In Canada, Viega is recognized for its professional-grade installation systems, favored in complex projects like high-rise plumbing, commercial retrofits, and hydronic heating. Although not as commonly stocked in mainstream retail stores, Viega products are widely trusted in contractor-focused channels. Their training programs and technical support further reinforce their strong position among professionals.
Environmental Commitment
Viega’s press-fit technology minimizes leak potential and material waste, contributing positively to sustainable building practices. Durable polymer fittings and long-lasting systems reduce maintenance and resource use. Their 25-year warranty on PureFlow installations reflects confidence in product longevity and commitment to environmentally responsible engineering.
Watts Water Technologies
Company Profile
Watts Water Technologies, founded in 1874 in the U.S. and now based in North Andover, Massachusetts, is a leading global manufacturer in water safety, control, and plumbing systems. While Canada falls under its North American distribution network, Watts is well known for supplying professional-grade plumbing and flow-control solutions, including their WaterPEX line of PEX tubing.
Product Quality & Certifications
Watts’ WaterPEX tubing (WPaTS and WPFPR series) is designed for plumbing and radiant heating systems and conforms to key standards:
CSA B137.5 for PEX systems
ASTM F876 / F877 dimensional & performance requirements
NSF/ANSI 14 & NSF/ANSI 61 for potable water usage
Watts also brands its products as CL‑R (chlorinated resin) and lead‑free, with maximum operating temperatures up to 93 °C (200 °F) and working pressure around 100 psi, meeting professional trade expectations.
Product Range
Watts offers both PEX‑A and PEX‑B tubing with various packaging formats:
White coils and sticks
Fast‑Pack bundles
Supports ASTM F1960 expansion (PEX‑A) and F1807/F2159 crimp connection standards
While they focus primarily on tubing rather than full-system fittings or manifolds like some competitors, their tubing is designed for ease of retrofit and everyday plumbing use.
Market Share
Watts Water PEX is available in Canada via major plumbing distributors and is often stocked alongside valves, pressure regulators, and flow-control equipment in wholesaler channels. Though not as installation-focused as brands with end-to-end PEX systems, Watts is trusted for reliability in maintenance, retrofit, or supplemental plumbing applications.
Sustainability & Environmental Commitment
Watts has received recognition such as America’s Greenest Companies 2024 by Newsweek, and is certified under WAVE Water Stewardship standards. Their products, including WaterPEX, support resource-efficient plumbing via long service life, resistance to corrosion, and reduced leak incidents leading to minimized water waste – key benefits aligned with environmental stewardship.
CB Supplies Ltd. (Canada)
Company Profile & Industry Experience
CB Supplies Ltd. is a Canadian family-owned distributor, headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, with a growing reach across Canada. The company specializes in plumbing, hydronic, and geothermal piping systems and tools. Recognized as the “Supplier of the Year” by AD Canada in 2024, CB Supplies supports contractors and wholesalers throughout Western Canada via multiple branches and a strong logistics network.
Product Quality & Certifications
CB Supplies manufactures CANPEX™ brand PEX tubing, including variants such as UV Plus, Ultra, and Oxygen Barrier tubing. Their products are certified to rigorous standards, including:
ASTM F876 / F877
NSF/ANSI 61 for potable water
NSF/ANSI 14
CSA B137.5
ULC/UL S101 & UL263
All tubing is clearly labeled with PEX designation code, manufacturing date, performance ratings, and certifications to ensure code compliance. CANPEX™ UV Plus tubing is the industry’s highest chlorine resistance rating and offers verified UV resistance without needing a dark layer.
Product Range
- CANPEX™ UV Plus: Single-layer, UV-resistant PEX tubing available in red, blue, and white (½″–1″, coils & sticks), ideal for potable water lines.
- CANPEX™ Ultra: Multi-layer PEX tubing with enhanced chlorine resistance, for long-term potable water systems.
- CANPEX™ OXY Barrier: Oxygen-barrier PEX tubing suited for hydronic heating, radiant floor, and snow-melt systems, available in ⅜″–1″.
- A full line of compatible accessories – brass and PPSU insert fittings, crimp rings, copper manifolds, tools, pipe hangers, and radiant heating components – rounds out a true in-house PEX ecosystem.
Market Share
While CB Supplies operates primarily as a Canadian-based wholesaler, its CANPEX™ brand has gained traction in Western Canada’s plumbing and HVAC networks. The firm’s wide branch network, quick delivery (including new Calgary facility), and consistent recognition reflect strong relationships with contractors and hydronic professionals.
Sustainability & Environmental Commitment
CB Supplies emphasizes durability and safety in its product design to extend system life and reduce leakage risk. Their PEX products help minimize water waste, corrosion, and installation rework, contributing indirectly to more sustainable infrastructure. Specific public ESG reporting is limited, but their best-in-class product performance (like chlorine and UV resistance) supports reliable long-term installations.
HeatLink Group Inc.
Company Profile
HeatLink Group Inc., originally founded in 1985 and based in Calgary, Alberta, specializes in PEX‑A plumbing, radiant heating/cooling, and snow-melt systems. In 2017, Mueller Industries acquired HeatLink and its affiliated PEX‑A tubing facility PexCor Manufacturing Co., while keeping founders Garry and Manfred Schmidt in leadership to drive expansion across North America. With over 25 years of innovation, HeatLink is now part of Mueller’s Piping Systems Group, enhancing its reach and R&D capabilities.
Product Quality & Certifications
HeatLink’s proprietary PureLink® PEX‑A tubing and High‑Performance Polymer (HPP) fittings come with options for:
- Expansion fittings (ASTM F1960)
- Press sleeve fitting compatibility (F1807/F2159) for reliable installation
Their products ultimately meet North American code requirements for plumbing and hydronics systems, although detailed Canadian certification data (e.g. CSA B137.5) isn’t always publicly listed.
Product Range
HeatLink offers a full system approach including:
- PureLink® PEX‑A tubing suitable for potable water and hydronic systems
- HPP press fittings and expansion rings and multi-port tees
- Tool-less TwistSeal® manifolds and other proprietary components designed for ease of installation and long-term reliability.
This integrated system is tailored for residential and commercial projects that require coordinated plumbing and heating infrastructure.
Market Share
Though not as pervasive as larger national brands, HeatLink maintains strong regional presence in Western Canada, supported through Mueller Industries’ North American distribution network. Their integration into Mueller’s operations has expanded their market access, production capacity, and technical support resources.
Sustainability & Environmental Commitment
While specific ESG reporting for HeatLink is limited, the company emphasizes long product life and energy-efficient performance. The durability and freeze resistance inherent in their PEX‑A solutions help minimize water waste and service disruption, aligning with sustainable infrastructure goals within plumbing and hydronic systems.
Summary Table:
Company | Key PEX Types Offered | Notable Certifications | Key Product Range Highlight | Market Position |
IPEX Inc. | PEX-a, PEX-b | CSA B137.5, NSF, UL, ASTM | AquaRise®, PEX potable and heating systems | Leading Canadian thermoplastic piping manufacturer with nationwide distribution |
Rehau Canada | PEX-a | CSA, NSF, ASTM F876/F877 | RAUPEX® with EVERLOC+™ fitting system | Premium European brand known for innovation in radiant and plumbing solutions |
SharkBite (RWC) | PEX-b | CSA B137.5, NSF 14/61, ASTM | Push-to-connect PEX fittings, EvoPEX™, manifolds | Highly recognized in retail & DIY sectors; strong brand visibility in North America |
Ledes | PEX-a, PEX-b (upcoming) | Targeting CSA, UL, ASTM, ISO certifications | LSZH conduit, solar fittings, expanding into PEX pipe | Emerging player in Canada, expanding from conduit to water piping systems |
GF Building Flow Solutions | PEX-a, PEX-b | CSA, NSF, ASTM, ISO 9001 | iFIT®, Hycleen®, full PEX plumbing + valve systems | Global leader with integrated water flow solutions and strong B2B capabilities |
Industrial Blansol, S.A. | PEX-a, PEX-b | AENOR, DVGW, ISO, CE, CSA | Thermaflex® and Eurotherm® pipes for heating and plumbing | Experienced European manufacturer expanding into North American markets |
Viega Canada (Viega LLC) | PEX-b | CSA B137.5, NSF, ASTM, UL, ICC | PureFlow® PEX with Smart Connect® press fittings | Premium system supplier with advanced press fitting technology |
Watts Water Technologies | PEX-a | CSA, NSF 61, ASTM, ICC | RadiantPEX+, Watts Radiant, Tekmar controls | Broad product range, strong in radiant and hydronic solutions |
CB Supplies Ltd. | PEX-b, PE-RT | CSA B137.5, ASTM, NSF, UL | VIPERT® potable water pipes, custom-color piping | Well-known Canadian manufacturer with OEM services and innovation focus |
HeatLink Group Inc. | PEX-a | CSA, NSF, ASTM, ICC | PEX-a tubing, radiant heating panels, mechanical manifolds | Established Canadian brand for integrated radiant heating & PEX piping systems |
PEX Pipe Standards & Code Compliance
Understanding the standards behind PEX pipes is essential for ensuring product quality, regulatory compliance, and safe application in both residential and commercial installations. In Canada, PEX piping systems must meet specific technical and performance requirements laid out by national and international standards organizations.
CSA B137.5 – Canadian Standard Association
The CSA B137.5 standard is the most widely referenced certification for PEX tubing in Canada. It specifies performance requirements for crosslinked polyethylene pressure tubing systems for potable water and radiant heating applications. This standard governs:
- Pipe dimensions and tolerances
- Pressure ratings (typically 100 psi @ 180°F or 160 psi @ 73°F)
- Hydrostatic pressure testing
- Chlorine resistance and oxidative stability
- UV resistance for limited exposure during storage and installation
Only PEX pipes that bear the CSA B137.5 mark can legally be installed in Canadian plumbing systems.
ASTM Standards – US Based but Globally Recognized
PEX pipes manufactured or sold in North America also typically comply with the following ASTM International standards:
- ASTM F876 – Specifies the requirements for dimensional characteristics and performance of PEX tubing.
- ASTM F877 – Covers the complete PEX piping system, including pipe, fittings, and manifolds, for hot and cold water distribution.
- ASTM F1807 / F1960 / F2080 / F2159 – Standards related to the types of fittings used with PEX (crimp, expansion, compression, etc.).
These ASTM standards are crucial for compatibility across different manufacturers and installation systems.
NSF Certification – Health & Safety
The NSF/ANSI 14 and NSF/ANSI 61 certifications ensure that PEX pipes:
- Do not leach harmful contaminants into drinking water
- Meet stringent health and environmental safety requirements
- Are tested for structural integrity and pressure performance
Most PEX piping used in potable water systems in North America must carry NSF-61 certification to be code-compliant.
UL Certification – Fire & Mechanical Safety
Some PEX systems—especially those integrated with fire protection or hydronic heating, also obtain UL listings, such as:
- UL 1821 – PEX tubing for residential fire protection systems
- UL 263 / ULC-S101 – Related to fire-resistance testing in assemblies (e.g., floor/ceiling systems)
This is particularly important for multi-residential buildings and systems requiring integrated fire suppression capabilities.
International Standards
While Canadian and U.S. codes dominate the market, European-made PEX pipes often carry additional international certifications, such as:
- ISO 15875 – International standard for PEX piping systems in hot and cold water installations
- DIN 16892 / 16893 – German standards for PEX pipe materials and multilayer structures
- CE Marking – Indicates conformity with EU safety, health, and environmental protection standards
Summary Table:
Standard | Governing Body | Scope |
CSA B137.5 | CSA (Canada) | Performance of crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) piping |
ASTM F876 | ASTM International | Dimensions and material requirements of PEX tubing |
ASTM F877 | ASTM International | Complete PEX systems (pipe + fittings) |
NSF/ANSI 14 & 61 | NSF International | Health effects & potable water safety |
UL 1821 | Underwriters Laboratories | Fire-rated residential fire suppression systems |
UL 263 / ULC-S101 | Underwriters Laboratories | Fire-resistance testing in assemblies |
ISO 15875 | ISO (International) | PEX pipe systems for hot and cold water |
DIN 16892/16893 | DIN (Germany) | PEX material and multilayer pipe structures |
How to Choose the Right PEX Pipe Supplier
Selecting the right PEX pipe supplier is critical for ensuring product performance, safety compliance, and long-term satisfaction in residential, commercial, or industrial plumbing and hydronic systems. With numerous manufacturers and brands on the market, here are several essential suggestions to guide your decision:
1. Assess Product Quality and Certifications
High-quality PEX pipes should meet recognized Canadian and international standards. Look for suppliers whose products are certified to:
CSA B137.5 (Canadian standard for PEX piping systems)
NSF/ANSI 14 and 61 (health effects and performance)
ASTM F876 / F877
Check for third-party certifications like NSF, UL, or IAPMO, which indicate that the product has undergone independent testing for safety, performance, and durability.
2. Evaluate Product Range and Innovation
Consider suppliers that offer a full product ecosystem:
- PEX pipes in various types (A, B, or C)
- Fittings (crimp, push-to-connect, expansion)
- Compatible tools and accessories
- Pre-assembled kits for radiant heating or potable systems
Suppliers that innovate, such as offering oxygen-barrier PEX, colored pipe for easy installation, or hybrid systems, often provide added value and easier integration.
3. Understand the Supplier’s Market Reputation
Choose suppliers known for:
- Reliability and product consistency
- Strong warranties
- Local inventory or distribution networks
- Customer support and technical assistance
4. Check Availability and Logistics
For large-scale or ongoing projects, it’s important the supplier has:
- Strong inventory levels
- Local warehousing or fast shipping options
- Flexible MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities)
Canadian-based manufacturers or distributors can provide better responsiveness and support in case of emergencies or changes.
5. Compare Pricing and Total Value
While cost matters, don’t select solely based on price. Consider:
- Durability and longevity of the piping
- Ease of installation and fewer repairs
- Bundled offerings (pipe + fittings + tools)
- After-sales support
An inexpensive pipe that fails early or requires frequent maintenance can lead to higher lifetime costs than premium products.
6. Sustainability and Eco-Credentials
If sustainability is a key factor for your project or business goals, look for suppliers with:
- Recyclable materials
- Green certifications or LEED contributions
- Low-VOC emissions
- Environmental management systems (e.g., ISO 14001)
Some companies like GF Building Flow Solutions and Rehau have clear environmental policies and commitments to energy-efficient production.
Conclusion
The Canadian market for PEX piping is both mature and diverse, offering a wide selection of manufacturers and suppliers that cater to residential, commercial, industrial, and radiant heating applications. From global leaders like Rehau and Uponor to strong domestic brands such as IPEX, CB Supplies, and Industrial Blansol, buyers have access to high-quality PEX solutions that meet rigorous CSA, NSF, and ASTM standards.
Understanding the differences in PEX types (A, B, C), recognizing key certifications, and evaluating a supplier’s product range, market reputation, and logistical capabilities are essential to making a smart procurement decision. With additional factors like innovation, customer support, pricing structure, and sustainability goals playing important roles, no single supplier fits all needs, each project or business must assess which partner aligns best with its objectives.
By using the guidance provided in this article, along with the summary comparison table of leading Canadian PEX suppliers—you’ll be equipped to confidently select a reliable and compliant source that ensures both performance and peace of mind for years to come.
