Why Polybutylene Pipes Are a Hidden Time Bomb in Older Homes
Posted in Pipe Repair, on July 16, 2025
Even if you aren’t dealing with plumbing issues yet, when you own polybutylene pipes, it is only a matter of time before you encounter the struggles. Polybutylene pipes were a common choice for home plumbing systems between the 1970s and 1900s, because they were inexpensive and easy to install. However, now they are widely known for their poor performance and lack of durability, often leaving homeowners needing a plumber in Fort Lauderdale on standby. The good news is that even if you are stuck with these damaged pipes, they can be salvaged with polybutylene repiping. If you are struggling with damaged or leaky pipes, contact Broward Plumbing today!
Here are some reasons why polybutylene pipes are a time bomb in older homes.
What Are Polybutylene Pipes?
Polybutylene pipes are a plumbing pipe made of a plastic/resin material. It was an extremely popular choice for homes in the mid-to-late 1990s. Polybutylene pipes are usually identifiable based on a few things:
- They are usually grey in colour but can be blue or black
- They may have the marking “PB2110” imprinted on them
- They may feel slightly flexible to the touch, similar to hard plastics
If you have noticed cracks or leaks from your pipes, it may be time for polybutylene repiping.
The Hidden Problems with Polybutylene Pipes
To put things simply, polybutylene pipes are just not very durable at all. Some issues with these pipes include:
- Chemical Degradation: Polybutylene is a type of plastic that reacts with chlorine, which is naturally present in drinking water. When this happens, the pipe will oxidize, leaving it weaker and more brittle. Over time, your pipes may begin to leak and break apart.
- Micro-Fractures: As mentioned, polybutylene pipes are simply not very durable, and they can start flaking and cracking from the inside, which can lead to sudden pipe bursts.
- Health Concerns: If your pipes have been degrading for a long time, they can leach harmful plastics into your water.
How Polybutylene Repiping Can Help
At Broward Plumbing, our expert plumbers in Fort Lauderdale can conduct polybutylene repiping to ensure that your pipes do not fail in the future. We often replace old polybutylene pipes with new PVC ones. PVC pipes are much more long-lasting and durable, making them the perfect replacement for polybutylene pipes.
Polybutylene repiping can help give homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their risk of a sudden leak or pipe burst is low. It can also help increase the property value of your home, as polybutylene pipes are highly undesirable.
Upgrade Your Pipes with Polybutylene Repiping
Whether or not you have experienced a pipe burst or leaks from your polybutylene pipes, it is best to replace them as soon as possible. It is only a matter of time before your polybutylene pipes cause issues for your home. If you want to address the problem quickly, contact a plumber in Fort Lauderdale for polybutylene repiping. Replacing the existing pipes with a durable PVC option will ensure that you can avoid serious plumbing issues in the near future. Contact Broward Plumbing today for repiping!