Signs You Have Poly-B Piping
Look for gray or blue pipes near your water heater or under sinks. Visible cracks, leaks, or white flaking indicate potential issues.
The Plumb Group
Why Replace Poly-B Piping?
Polybutylene piping, commonly used in homes from the 1970s to the 1990s, is prone to failure due to its material composition. Replacing it ensures the safety and longevity of your plumbing system.
What is Poly-B Piping?
Poly-B, or Polybutylene, is a type of plastic piping that was widely installed in residential plumbing systems due to its affordability and ease of installation. However, over time, it has been found to degrade and fail, leading to costly water damage.
Why Should You Replace It?
There are several key reasons to replace Poly-B piping in Alberta homes:
- Prone to Leaks and Failures: Poly-B is susceptible to chemical reactions with chlorine and other water treatment agents, leading to cracks and leaks.
- Insurance Issues: Many insurance companies either increase premiums or refuse coverage for homes with Poly-B piping due to its high failure rate.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Poly-B becomes brittle in cold climates like Alberta’s, increasing the risk of bursts during winter.
- Degraded Materials: Over time, the pipe material weakens, especially at joints and fittings, making it unreliable.
How Do You Replace Poly-B Piping?
Replacing Poly-B involves a full re-piping of your home using modern materials like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene), which is durable, flexible, and resistant to chemical degradation. Our experts ensure minimal disruption during the process, leaving your home safe and secure.
Benefits of PEX Replacement
Modern PEX piping is long-lasting, flexible, and resistant to the issues that plague Poly-B. It’s the standard choice for safe and efficient plumbing.