Poly B Plumbing in Airdrie & Calgary: What Homeowners Need to Know
Polybutylene (Poly B) plumbing is a common concern for homeowners in Airdrie and Calgary, especially for those living in homes built between the 1980s and early 2000s. If your home still has Poly B, you may be wondering:
- What are the risks?
- Should I replace it?
- What are my options if I can’t replace it right now?
To answer these questions, Shauna from the Tara Molina Real Estate Group sat down with Paul from PMC Plumbing in Airdrie to discuss everything you need to know about Poly B plumbing and what homeowners should do about it.
📺 Watch the full video here: Poly B Plumbing
What is Poly B Plumbing?
Poly B was a popular type of plastic piping used in residential homes from the late 1970s to the early 2000s. It was affordable and easy to install, making it a go-to option for builders at the time. However, over the years, homeowners and plumbers have discovered serious issues with Poly B, leading to increased risks of leaks and failures.
Why is Poly B a Problem?
🔹 Prone to Cracking & Leaks – Over time, Poly B becomes brittle and develops tiny cracks, especially in areas where pipes expand and contract due to temperature changes.
🔹 UV Exposure Weakens the Pipes – If Poly B pipes were exposed to sunlight before installation, the material degrades faster, making it more likely to fail sooner.
🔹 Fittings Matter – In Canada, Poly B was often used with copper fittings, which slightly improved durability. However, in the U.S., plastic fittings were commonly used, leading to faster failures. Even with copper fittings, Poly B is still considered a risk.
🔹 Higher Insurance Premiums (or Denials!) – Many insurance companies charge more for homes with Poly B or even refuse coverage unless the pipes have been replaced.
Should You Replace Your Poly B Plumbing?
Paul from PMC Plumbing recommends replacing Poly B sooner rather than later. Even if you haven’t experienced leaks yet, chances are your pipes are already deteriorating.
“When we replace Poly B in homes, we almost always find areas where the pipe was about to burst,” Paul explains. Calcium buildup around weak spots is a warning sign that failure is imminent.
🏠 If you’re planning to sell your home, removing Poly B can increase your home’s value and prevent potential issues during a buyer’s home inspection.
What If You Can’t Replace It Right Now?
If a full replacement isn’t an option at the moment, there are still some preventative measures you can take:
✅ Install a Mainline Shut-Off System – Paul suggests a smart water shut-off valve that detects abnormal water flow. If it senses a sudden burst, it automatically shuts off your water and sends a notification to your phone. This can help prevent major water damage if a pipe fails while you’re away.
✅ Regular Plumbing Inspections – A professional plumber can assess the condition of your Poly B pipes and identify potential weak spots before they cause leaks.
✅ Monitor for Signs of Wear – Look for discolouration, cracks, or leaks around exposed pipes, especially near fittings, water heaters, and high-use areas.
Final Thoughts: Poly B in Airdrie & Calgary Homes
If your home still has Poly B plumbing, it’s essential to understand the risks and make a plan for replacement. Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or seller, dealing with Poly B proactively can save you thousands of dollars in potential water damage.
💬 Have questions? Contact PMC Plumbing for expert advice or reach out to the Tara Molina Real Estate Group to discuss how Poly B may affect your home’s value and saleability.
📞 Ready to make your move? Let’s chat!
📺 Watch the full video here: Poly B Plumbing Video
🔹 Thinking of selling? Let’s discuss how to navigate potential Poly B concerns with buyers.
🔹 Buying a home? We’ll help you identify potential risks before making an offer.
✨ At the Tara Molina Real Estate Group, we’re here to help you make informed decisions and protect your investment. ✨