Polybutylene pipes were used extensively in home construction during the period from 1975 to 1995, due in large part to their low cost and ease of installation. Polybutylene pipes can cause various problems, mainly due to the fact that they can react with water and become brittle, dislodging and causing the pipes to fail without warning. Because they can fail, it is important to know if you have this type of pipe, and here we will go over some ways to recognize polybutylene pipes in your home.
Obviously, the best way to recognize polybutylene is to have a professional plumber or home inspector take a look at it. You may be able to tell if your home has this type of plumbing by looking yourself, but it is difficult to tell if it is damaged simply by looking if you are inexperienced. However, there are a few things you can look for to find out if you have this type of pipe. Once you’ve confirmed it, you can have a professional review any potential damage and help you find a solution.
Polybutylene groundwater mains tend to be blue in color, but can also be gray or black. Black poly should not be confused with polybutylene. Pipes tend to be half an inch to an inch in diameter and can be seen entering the home through the basement floor or wall, through a concrete slab, or even through a crawl space. Generally, you will pass the house near the water heater, which is a good place to start looking. There are some cases where copper pipes are used near the house and polybutylene pipes are used near the water meter, so it is important to check both ends.
Polybutylene pipes can also be used indoors and are most easily found near the water heater. It can also be found running along the ceiling in unfinished basements and coming out of the walls to provide water to sinks and toilets. Some areas use copper terminals, so if you see copper near the fitting, it does not mean that polybutylene tubing is not used for the rest of the tubing. If you find this type of pipe, it is usually a good idea to replace it, but this should generally be done with the help of a professional plumber, especially if it is damaged.
