Polybutylene Pipe (PB) is a gray, blue, or black colored flexible plastic material know as a copolymer that is used to conduct water. Since almost all the pipe used in your home is inside the walls, you may not realize your home has been piped with this material. Anytime after 5 years of service, the pipe may develop leaks.

Poly pipe is known to deteriorate due to contact with the oxidants normally found in public water supplies. Since the oxidants are carried in the water, the pipe deteriorates from the inside, thus making it very difficult to determine if the pipe is in good condition. Most home inspectors cannot give a reliable assessment on the condition of poly piping unless there is a visible problem with the exterior of the pipe or its installation. When a leak occurs, it may be extremely severe because the deterioration occurs from within. When poly pipe reacts with the oxidants in normal tap water, it becomes brittle, sometimes scaling or flaking. This results in a fracture of the interior of the pipe which allows for more deterioration. Eventually it will begin to leak causing damage throughout a home. Poly pipe with plastic or metal fittings will eventually incur damage. Poly piping is not a reliable piping under any circumstances. If the pipe has been leaking for some time without the knowledge of the homeowner, severe structural damage to the home can result, making repairs extremely difficult. Poly pipe leaks are unpredictable and there are no symptoms to warn of an impending leak. Factors that affect poly include: deterioration of plastic and metal fittings, poor installation, water quality, pipe age, and/or chlorine levels. Damage from poly can be expensive. Insurance companies sometimes cancel or refuse policies for homes with known poly piping problems. It is difficult to market a house that has such an unreliable plumbing system.

The most effective way of identifying poly pipe is to have your plumbing inspected by a licensed professional. A licensed plumber can confirm that you have poly pipe installed in your home. Poly pipe will leak eventually.

Water services, Gas services, and Repipes will be looked at and a FREE estimate given. 

Repipes done in copper cheaper than most companies that are installing plastic pipes!

Residential Plumbing

(520) 469-9555

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