How to tell if you have Poly-B (quick check)
Look in these places:
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Near your hot water tank
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Under sinks
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In the crawlspace / mechanical room
Common clues:
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Grey plastic piping
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Markings like “PB” or “polybutylene”
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Plastic fittings and clamps at connections
Not sure? We can confirm it during an inspection.
What Is Poly-B — and Why Is It A Problem?
Poly-B (polybutylene) piping was commonly installed in homes built between approximately 1978 and 1997. It was marketed as a cheaper alternative to copper piping.
Over time, Poly-B has proven to:
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become brittle
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crack or leak at fittings/joints
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develop pinhole leaks that go unnoticed (especially behind walls)
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cause water damage if a leak is missed
Most issues occur at connections and hidden runs — which is why proactive replacement is common.
Homes most at risk
Your home is more likely to have Poly-B if it was built:
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1978–1997
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In an 80s–early 90s subdivision
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Has grey plastic water lines
Insurance & resale
Insurance policies vary, but Poly-B is a common red flag. Homeowners may run into:
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higher premiums
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exclusions for water damage related to Poly-B
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requests for documentation or replacement before renewal
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questions during a home sale
If your insurer or home inspector has flagged Poly-B, we can confirm what you have and provide replacement options with a written estimate.
Signs Your Poly-B May Be Failing
Even if Poly-B looks fine from the outside, issues often start at fittings or in hidden runs. Book an inspection if you notice:
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Dampness, staining, or musty smell near walls, ceilings, or cabinets
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Moisture or corrosion around fittings (especially at transitions)
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Recurring small leaks that keep coming back
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Sudden pressure changes or inconsistent flow
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Discoloured water or debris at fixtures
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You’ve already had one Poly-B repair (repeat failures are common)
If you’re unsure, we can confirm whether your home has Poly-B and walk you through replacement options with a written estimate.
Professional Poly B Replacement by Ed Rosse Plumbing
Replacing Poly-B requires experience, careful planning, and minimizing disruption to your home.
Here’s what you can expect:
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confirm Poly-B + map the system
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replacement plan (full/partial based on access and risk)
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install modern, code-compliant piping
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pressure test + verify performance
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clean work area + clear communication
We aim to minimize openings; access requirements depend on your layout.
We take pride in providing clean, professional work and clear communication from start to finish.
Why Homeowners in the Comox Valley & Campbell River Choose Ed Rosse Plumbing
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Local, experienced plumbing professionals
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Clear written estimate & scope
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Fully licensed and insured
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Work completed to current BC plumbing code
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Respect for your home and property
We proudly serve homeowners throughout the Comox Valley, Campbell River, and surrounding communities.
