Is There Polybutylene Pipe in Your House?

Topic

polybutylene pipe

For

Newmarket homeowners

Need a hand?

(365) 990-3021

The reason it counts

Polybutylene, often called poly-b, was used for water supply in a good number of Canadian homes built or renovated from the late 1970s through to the 1990s. It was cheap and quick to install. Over time it gained a poor reputation, because the pipe and some of its fittings could become brittle and fail without warning, particularly where water chemistry or installation stresses were unkind.

Many Newmarket houses from that era have long since been replumbed, but some still carry original poly-b in walls and ceilings. Insurers in Canada often ask about it, and some will charge more or limit coverage while it remains. Buyers and home inspectors look for it as a matter of routine, so it is better to learn about it on your own schedule than in the middle of a sale.

Steps, in order

1. Look at the pipe colour. Poly-b is usually grey, sometimes off-white or black, and flexible. It is often often printed with the code PB2110 along its length.
2. Check the water heater. The connections above the tank are a common place to spot it.
3. Inspect under sinks and at the meter. Short lengths often appear at fixture shut-offs and where the main enters.
4. Examine the fittings. Early systems used plastic or metal crimp fittings. Plastic fittings and the joints near them are the usual weak points.
5. Do not confuse it with PEX. PEX, a modern pipe, is commonly red, blue or white and is stamped PEX. If in doubt, ask.

What to do next

Speak with your insurer first to learn what they require and by when. Then arrange a plumber's inspection to see how much poly-b remains and how difficult it will be to reach. Most owners choose full replacement with PEX or copper. If a basement renovation is planned, that is the best moment, as our circular on renovation plumbing planning explains. Homeowners unsure about other systems might also find our water meter test helpful for checking hidden leaks.

Living with it in the meantime

• Keep household water pressure moderate; a regulator helps.
• Avoid bleach-heavy water treatments where possible.
• Look regularly at exposed joints for stains or drips.
• Leave the house water off when away for long periods.

Ringing for help

We provide polybutylene pipe replacement for homes around Newmarket and East Gwillimbury, planning the work to limit openings in finished walls. If you are already dealing with backups or roots, we can also look at main sewer clearing or general drain cleaning during the same visit. We will give you written details of the work for your insurer.