What is wrong with polybutylene plumbing?

They were inexpensive and easy to install–but homeowners and plumbing professionals have discovered one serious flaw: Over time, oxidation and exposure to chlorine in the water supply causes the pipes to swell and crack, leading to widespread flood damage throughout the home, usually without any warning.

Why is polybutylene pipe no longer used in homes?

Because of numerous leakage problems and lawsuits against the manufacturers, polybutylene pipe (PB) manufacture was stopped after 1995. It is no longer an approved pipe for water supply or distribution by the building codes, although approval was not immediately rescinded after it was removed from the market.

When should polybutylene pipes be replaced?

Polybutylene pipes deteriorate after about 10 to 15 years, so if you still have them, it’s past time to look into replacing them. At a minimum, watch for signs of a hidden water leak.

Is all polybutylene pipe bad?

Polybutylene piping isn’t inherently bad. It does not make you 100\% uninsurable. It will not definitely fail. It does, however, put a homeowner at a potentially higher risk for serious plumbing leaks.

How common is polybutylene plumbing?

Industry experts believe it was installed in at least 6 million homes, and some experts indicate it may have been used in as many as 10 million homes. Most probably, the piping was installed in about one in every four or five homes built during the years in which the pipe was manufactured.

Does a seller have to disclose polybutylene pipes?

Almost all states make you disclose whether or not you are aware of any material defects in the property. Polybutylene pipes would qualify as a material defect. Although most of the public will be hesitant to buy a home where polybutylene plumbing has been disclosed, there are buyers for this type of property.

Does homeowners insurance cover polybutylene pipes?

In general, insurance companies do not provide coverage within homeowners insurance policies for polybutylene pipes. They are simply too much of a liability as they are easily damaged and will break down, burst, and damage the home.

Can you get homeowners insurance with polybutylene pipes?

Let’s start with the simplest answer: no. In general, polybutylene pipes are not covered by homeowners insurance. Most homeowners insurance companies view polybutylene pipes as too liable to burst and cause damage, and so they don’t provide coverage.

What is the life expectancy of polybutylene pipe?

While nationally the average life of polybutylene (“poly”) pipes is 26 years, in states like North Carolina and Virginia, poly pipes are failing up to ten years earlier.

Is polybutylene piping illegal?

Polybutylene piping is not banned on a national level, but neither is it available. It does, however, still exist in many homes built between 1975 and 1996.

How long does polybutylene pipe last?

How long do PB (polybutylene) pipes last? You can expect PB (polybutylene) pipe to last less than 30 years. It has not been manufactured since the mid-1990s, is no longer approved by the building codes, and failure as early 10 years led to class-action lawsuits against the manufacturers.

Do you have to disclose polybutylene?

If the home has poly, be sure to disclose this material fact, in writing, to your client. If you fail to disclose this problem, and they buy the home with poly, when it leaks, they will most likely want to know why you didn’t warn them.

Why you should remove polybutylene pipes?

Water chlorination of the public water supply breaks down Polybutylene pipes over time.

Flaking pipe materials may leak chemicals into water and affect its quality badly.

Unfortunately,Polybutylene pipes cannot be repaired or exchanged.

Most American and Canadian building codes have ruled out Polybutylene pipes for new and existing buildings.

What are the problems with polybutylene pipes?

There are several factors that can cause leaks or bursts in polybutylene pipes: Age of the pipes Improperly installed Chlorine degradation from municipal water treatment (the most common cause)

Should you replace polybutylene piping in your home?

If you decide to replace Polybutylene pipes in your home, that is good . But remember that many homebuyers are willing to take over risks that are fully disclosed. Some buyers may demand that you replace the Polybutylene pipes or ask for a price reduction to provide to a re-pipe after buying the home.

What to replace polybutylene pipes with?

How to Replace Polybutylene Pipes. Steps: 1. Use drywall saw to cut open walls and ceilings to expose the polybutylene water-supply pipes. 2. Turn off the water to the house, then cut out the existing polybutylene pipes using a plastic pipe cutter. 3. Install new CPVC water pipe; glue pipe to fittings with CPVC primer and cement.