What Causes Polybutylene Pipes to Break Down
Posted in Pipe Repair, on October 23, 2023
Polybutylene pipes were once considered a smart and cost-effective plumbing solution. Unfortunately, they couldn’t live up to their hype and have become a notorious headache for homeowners and businesses across Florida. Pipe failures, micro-fractures, and other problems with polybutylene pipes have made many homeowners consider re-piping and polybutylene pipe repair. Broward Plumbing’s trusted team of plumbers in Fort Lauderdale detail why polybutylene pipes break down and how you can tackle this issue.
The Perils of Microfractures
Microfractures, or tiny, invisible cracks, are a common concern in polybutylene pipes. Though touted as a durable and affordable alternative, polybutylene is prone to microfractures due to water pressure fluctuations, temperature changes, and flaking. The chemicals and water disinfectants also react with the polybutylene to cause flaking and tiny cracks within the pipes. These insidious microfractures can grow silently to cause water leakage and structural damage. Extensive polybutylene pipe repair or replacement may be needed by the time you notice the damage.
Excessive Deterioration
Though once considered innovative, polybutylene is now infamous for its susceptibility to minerals and chemicals found in water. Exposure to chlorine and other substances in your water supply can weaken these pipes, causing them to become brittle and leak-prone. Heat and high water pressure are also known to damage polybutylene pipes. Modern plumbing systems can’t do without both, making polybutylene a poor choice. The structural integrity of these pipes can erode significantly over time to trigger catastrophic failures. You’ll not only require emergency re-piping by an experienced plumber in Fort Lauderdale but also incur water damage and cleanup expenses.
Aging Plumbing
The age of your plumbing system can also accelerate polybutylene pipe breakdown. These pipes were widely used in plumbing between the late 1970s & the mid-1990s. Each passing year brings greater chances of pipe deterioration and failure in properties with original polybutylene plumbing. Aging polybutylene pipes are dangerously fragile–a ticking time bomb that could burst any moment. For help with your polybutylene pipes, trust Broward Plumbing, the best plumbing company near you in South Florida.
Build-Up & Back-ups
Build-up within polybutylene pipes is another contributing factor to their degradation. Over time, sedimentation and mineral deposits accumulate within the piping to restrict the water flow. This build-up exerts additional pressure and stress on the already weakened polybutylene, further accelerating the deterioration process. Regular maintenance and check-ups by professional plumbers in Fort Lauderdale can help mitigate this issue. However, re-piping is the ideal solution for problematic polybutylene plumbing.
PVC Pipes: The Right Replacement Choice
Polybutylene pipe repair is only a temporary fix–total PVC replacement by an experienced plumber in Fort Lauderdale will ensure a reliable plumbing system. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipes are the most recommended for polybutylene pipe replacement. PVC pipe durability, chemical resistance, and longevity have been time-tested, and they’re an excellent alternative for re-piping your property. Switch to PVC piping to restore functionality, optimum water pressure, and minimize leaks.
Polybutylene Plumbing Woes? Expert Plumbers in Fort Lauderdale
Polybutylene pipes are a definite plumbing disaster in waiting! The sooner you opt for polybutylene pipe repair and replacement, the better. At Broward Plumbing, we specialize in trenchless polybutylene re-piping repair and replacement. Our team of skilled plumbers in Fort Lauderdale promises fast response time, expert workmanship, and transparent prices. We’ll assess your piping and develop a tailored plan for repair/replacement to ensure safe, worry-free plumbing.
Don’t wait for a plumbing catastrophe–call us now!