Since the 2008 economic crisis, many DIY homebuilders and renovators have started using cross-linked polythene (PEX) rather than copper stainless steel press fittings. This is not only because of the lower material cost associated with PEX, but also because of its ease of installation. PEX is supplied in up to 500-meter lengths and can be used for extended runs.

 Use a PEX copper crimp ring to connect PEX to crimp style adapters. Place a copper crimp ring over the end of the PEX tubing and insert your chosen crimp-style adapter into the tube. Position the crimp ring halfway along the stainless steel press fittings adapter shaft. Place the PEX crimping tool jaws over the ring and squeeze the handles of the crimping tool together.Check the connection by pressing the "go" slot of a go/no-go gauge over the copper clamp ring. If it fits snugly and the no-go slot won't fit over the ring, the connection is good.

 Clamp PEX tubing to standard crimp style adapters using a PEX clamping tool and stainless steel clamp rings. Place a stainless steel press fittings clamping ring over the PEX tube and slide the ribbed section of the adapter into the end of the PEX tubing. Position the clamp ring halfway along the ribbed adapter shaft. Place the jaws of the clamping tool over the tab on the stainless steel clamp ring. Squeeze the handles of the clamping tool together to tighten the ring and complete the connection.