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BROWSE PLUMBING SERVICES
Polybutylene Piping Replacements
Delivering the highest quality in Poly-B replacement services
In the spring of 1998, manufacturers ceased production of the Poly-B piping after their suppliers stopped production of the resin. One of the issues with Poly-B piping is that it may look fine from the outside, but over time the interior may begin to deteriorate after prolonged exposure to hot and/or chemically (chlorinated) treated water. This could lead to a fitting failure or a rupture of the piping. Unfortunately, there is no way to tell if there is existing damage to the interior of the piping or the possible remaining life expectancy.
Since the damages to the piping typically originate from the inside, and with an average life expectancy of 10-15 years from the date of install, we generally recommend the replacement of all the Poly-B lines with Pex. Since Pex piping has a higher pressure limit, tolerance to heat and resistance to corrosion, makes it more superior then Poly-B.
Did you know Poly-B piping can negatively affect your home insurance policy?
Insurance companies often charge higher premiums, offer limited coverage, set replacement deadlines, or may even deny coverage for homes with Poly-B piping due to the increased risk of water damage, especially in Alberta's cold climate. Poly-B piping, discontinued since 2005, does not meet current building standards
After the imperfections of Poly-B piping became more common knowledge, home insurance for properties containing Poly-B became more difficult to obtain due to the high risk of failure that this piping was susceptible to. Since obtaining home insurance when you have Poly-B is an issue, it may also deter potential home buyers, as Poly-B is no longer a CSA-approved building material.
As a result of Poly-B piping being used to supply all fixtures within a home, a complete replacement may be an extensive project. But, not only are you investing in your homes resale value, you are providing yourself with peace of mind with reducing the risks of potential leaks and ruptures causing potentially significant damage.
If you suspect you have Poly B piping, it's crucial to have it inspected by a professional plumber to assess its condition and determine if replacement is necessary. However, as a homeowner there are a few things you can do to see if you have Poly-B in your home. Common places to look for it is near the water heater, under sinks, or in the basement. Here's what to look for:
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Poly B pipes are usually grey in colour, which is the most common, but they can also appear in other colours.
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They have a slightly flexible feel compared to other types of piping.
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Look for a code on the piping itself that starts with 'PB', the most common being 'PB2110'.
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Poly-B pipes will normally have copper elbows, connectors, and joints to make corners.
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Additionally, if your home was built between the late 1970s and mid-1990s, there's a higher chance it may contain Poly B, as it was widely used during that time.
Contact Us Today For A Job Estimate On Inspecting For Poly-B In Your Home
Call us at 403-356-1111 to chat with a customer service representative to work out a solution to ensure that your home is Poly-B free.
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US
I was so sick and tired of repairing the Poly B piping in our house. I asked Express Plumbing for a quote to replace all the pipe work in the house plus add a back flow preventer and a new water heater. Very prompt reply and great quote followed. We booked them in. They arrived as scheduled and did an excellent job. We were very impressed with their service. If ever I need a plumber again I will call them for sure. I highly recommend them for all your plumbing needs.
Bill Woods
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