The History of Poly B

Poly B, which stands for polybutylene, is a type of plastic piping that gained popularity in residential construction from the 1970s through the 1990s. It was considered an economical alternative to copper pipes, leading to its widespread use in numerous Edmonton homes built during that period. Regrettably, several decades later, Poly B has demonstrated its susceptibility to failures and has been found to be much less durable than initially believed.

How to Identify Poly B Plumbing

Homeowners can generally identify Poly B pipes by recognizing a few distinct characteristics that differentiate them from other plumbing materials.

Colour: The predominant hue of Poly B pipes is light grey, though they can also appear in various tones such as black, blue, or even silver, which may lead to some confusion for those who are not familiar with the material.

Stamping/Markings: A crucial feature to notice is the marking "PB2110" engraved on the pipe's surface. This specific code clearly signifies that the pipe is made of Poly B, aiding in its differentiation from other piping types.

Locations in the Home: Poly B pipes are typically found in particular areas within the home. Common locations include near hot water tanks, beneath sinks, in unfinished basements, and they are usually linked to kitchen or bathroom fixtures, making these areas essential to inspect.

If you’re uncertain or seek a definitive answer, our licensed plumbers are here to assist. They can swiftly and effectively verify whether your home contains Poly B pipes during a complimentary inspection. This service offers you reassurance and direction regarding any necessary repairs or upgrades.

Risks of Poly B Plumbing in Edmonton Homes

Although Poly B piping has a well-documented history of failures in various regions across North America, homeowners in Edmonton confront a distinct set of challenges arising from our unique local climate and common building practices.

Temperature Variations: Edmonton's dynamic climate plays a crucial role. The city's severe, icy winters paired with warm summers establish a pattern of expansion and contraction in the piping materials, placing extra stress on the joints of Poly B. This continuous strain may result in premature wear and possible failure.

Water Chemistry:  Our municipal water supply presents a unique set of challenges. The chlorine utilized in water treatment can react with Poly B materials, gradually weakening their integrity over time. This deterioration may be slow, but it can eventually jeopardize the structural stability of the plumbing system.

Installation in Basements: In many Edmonton homes, basements are either fully or partially finished, posing a significant risk. When a leak happens, the enclosed nature of a basement can lead to water damage going unnoticed for long periods, ultimately causing extensive harm before it is discovered.

Insurance Implications:  Homeowners must recognize the seriousness of the insurance implications. Recently, an ever-growing number of insurance providers in Edmonton have started to refuse coverage or raise premiums for properties still utilizing Poly B plumbing systems, complicating the pursuit of comprehensive insurance.

In light of these various risks, replacing Poly B piping should not be viewed merely as routine maintenance; rather, it is a crucial upgrade to protect your Edmonton home’s value, ensure safety, and preserve its insurability in today’s market. Taking proactive measures now can help you avoid far greater issues in the future.