Is it okay to use PEX for fixtures or should I use copper for the rigidity?

[CountryBumkin]

I am getting ready to remodel my shower. I have all new fixtures (Moen 275BN) which includes a temp control valve, three on/off valves, a handheld shower head, a fixed shower head, and three body sprays.

I was going to use all PEX to hook up the various pipes between all the valves. I'm wondering now if I should use copper just because of the rigidity of the copper. PEX adds nothing to help support the fixtures and keep them from moving around. The Moen fixtures have tabs on them (except the body sprays and hand shower hose, for which I will use a drop-ear NPT-PEX fitting and pipe nipples) to attach to studs but the tabs are not very thick metal.

I never soldered copper before. I do have the Uponor PEX kit and expander.

What is your recommendation? Will I be okay just attaching the fixtures to studs/blocking and running PEX between everything?

 

[Doherty Plumbing]

You shouldn't be relying on the piping itself to support the fixtures. The fixtures should be support with bracing and screws.

Use pex if you're not comfortable with copper.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Cass]

Personaly I like to run copper in exposed areas...

 

[Lakee911]

Personaly I like to run copper in exposed areas...

I know that he didn't say it, but I'm betting that he's going to tile his shower or at least provide some way to cover up the walls...

I think copper would offer some additional rigidity, but definitely don't use that alone to support fixtures.