Does polybutylene pipe need to be replaced?

Polybutylene pipes deteriorate after about 10 to 15 years, so if you still have them, it’s past time to look into replacing them. At a minimum, watch for signs of a hidden water leak.

What do you replace polybutylene pipes with?

If your home contains polybutylene pipes, a plumber will discuss your options with you. Some homeowners opt to replace all of their plumbing, while others choose only to replace the visible pipes. Your plumber will shut off your water, replace the Big Blue with CPVC, and make any necessary repairs.

Does SharkBite work with polybutylene?

SharkBite PEX fittings make it easy to transition between pipe types during repairs. Fast, efficient and reliable, our transition fittings are compatible with Polybutylene, PEX, PVC, CPVC, PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE, and are approved for behind-the-wall installation as well as burial.

What kind of water lines do mobile homes use?

CPVC and PEX are more common in mobile home supply lines. Both work for hot and cold water lines. These materials may last as long as the incoming copper lines used for site-built homes. The plastic pipes are cheaper and easier to install.

Can you use PEX fittings on polybutylene?

PB has the same outside diameter as PEX of the same nominal size, but outside diameters differ slightly between the tubing types. This means that you should not use PEX fittings on polybutylene, but that you can use PEX crimping rings and PEX crimping tools on barbed PB connections.

What kind of pipe is used in mobile homes?

Plastic pipes have been the common in mobile homes since the mid-1980s, including CPVC, PVC, PB, ABS and, more recently, PEX.

When was polybutylene outlawed?

Polybutylene pipes were banned from new construction projects after 1995, but if they’re already in your home, there is no requirement to remove it. This is important to know if you decide to purchase a home that was built between 1978 and 1995.

When did they start using PEX in mobile homes?

PEX. PEX, also known as cross-linked polyethylene pipe, was first manufactured in the 1920s but has become more popular in recent years. It shares the same outer diameter as copper and can be used for both hot and cold water.

Can I use regular SharkBite on polybutylene?

SharkBite push-to-connect fittings that have a tan-colored release collar are not suitable for use with polybutylene or PVC material. The tube liners that are included with these fittings are intended for use with PEX, copper, CPVC, PE-RT or (CTS SDR-9) SDR-9 HDPE tubing.

What causes polybutylene pipe to leak?

Problems with leaks occur mostly at the joints. The reason appears to be that chemicals, including chlorine commonly added to the water supply, can erode the plastic, which causes the joints to leak.

What years was polybutylene used in mobile homes?

Fact: Defective polybutylene pipe (PB) was used in manufactured homes from 1976 through 1996. From the mid 1980’s through the 1990’s most homes never reached the point of leaking and then have the opportunity to be re-piped under the (CPRC – PBpipe.com) class action suit.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spq5I9fr2xo