What does that mean you may ask?

Well, Polybutylene is a form of plastic resin that was used extensively in the manufacture of water supply piping from 1978 until 1995 around the south and much of the Atlanta area. Due to the low cost of the material and ease of installation, polybutylene piping systems were viewed as cost effective alternative to traditional copper piping. The piping systems were used for underground water mains and as interior water distribution piping.

While scientific evidence is scarce, it is believed that oxidants in the public water supplies, such as chlorine, react with the polybutylene piping and acetal fittings causing them to scale and flake and become brittle. Micro-fractures result, and the basic structural integrity of the system is reduced. Thus, the system becomes weak and may fail without warning causing damage to the building structure and personal property.

It is believed that other factors may also contribute to the failure of polybutylene systems, such as improper installation, but it is virtually impossible to detect installation problems throughout an entire system.

We are experts at replacing these outdated plumbing systems. If you think you have polybutylene plumbing in your residence or business, make an appointment today with the PLUMBPROS.