Pex & paint

kevin

What do you guys do when it comes to using pex with baseboard loops and the "overspray" that hits/coats the tubing that is roughed in?
I use the Wirsbo 5/8" tubing ,use the orange caps to cover the ends and then after sheetrock,primin & sometimes paint attach the fin tube and cover to the wall. I usually carefully scrape most of the paint off(watch the O2 barrier) but wondered if it was 100% needed. Wirsbo has that expansion fitting that shoulnt effect the seal but am curious to the chemical reaction.
How do you guys deal w/ this? TIA kpc

Greg Swob

Paint on PEX

Not Wirsbo, but a Vanguard rep once told me that typical latex paints should not harm the tubing or impair it's properties. Don't take my word, though, this was a few years ago and I've never posed the question since. Perhaps time has passed and they may have a different view now. As for alkyd paints, he advised against contact onto PEX. Greg

hot_rod

Here is an idea

I use this Vanguard product to protect the tube where it exit's the slab and goes to the manifold. Mostly for UV protection. In your case it could be used as a paint shield. Probably use it over and over, although it is fairly cheap to buy.

Heck, you may want to install a new piece after the connection to the baseboard for a different "corrugated look" and additional tube protection. It is pre-slit and can be snapped over the tube with connections already made.

hot rod