What is Poly B pipe? why is it bad? How to identify?

Poly B pipe (polybutylene) was used for hot and cold water pipes in houses built between mid 1980s until 1999. It is a plastic pipe, usually gray.

Look in your mechanical room to see exposed water pipes to see if you have Poly B pipe.

All Poly B pipe will fail in time. A number of factors affect how quickly Poly B will fail, but a common lifespan is 20-30 years from original installation. All components of the Poly B system have been known to fail from fittings, crimps and the pipe itself. Results can be a slow drip or leak that leaves hidden or visible water damage. Poly B pipes have also burst, causing flooding.

Always good to know where your main water shut off is!

Leaks and floods in your home can cause obvious and expensive damage requiring repairs and renovations. Water leaks that go unnoticed can cause structural damage and rot. Health and air quality problems can be experienced due to growing mold in your home.

Insurance does not always pay for damages.

Buying or selling your home? Poly B pipe is becoming a more common problem at time of sale.