Learn the risks of Poly-B piping, how to identify it in your home, and why proactive replacement is critical to protect your property. Get expert advice from Calgary’s plumbing and boiler specialists.
If your home was built between the late 1970s and the mid-1990s, there’s a strong chance your plumbing system includes polybutylene pipe—commonly known as Poly-B. While it was once marketed as an affordable alternative to copper, Poly-B has earned a reputation for leaks, failures, and expensive damage.
In this article, we’ll explain:
Polybutylene (PB) is a type of plastic resin used in water supply piping from approximately 1978 to 1995. It was lightweight, flexible, and easy to install—leading builders to install it widely in new homes across North America, especially in Western Canada.
Poly-B typically has a grey color and may be stamped with “PB2110.” It was commonly used for hot and cold water lines, often with plastic or copper fittings.
Poly-B’s downfall wasn’t immediate—it deteriorates over time, often invisibly, until catastrophic failure occurs. The main issues include:
Insurance warning: Many home insurers in Alberta now consider Poly-B a liability. Some refuse to offer full coverage unless the piping is removed.
Look for the following signs:
If you’re not sure, we can inspect it for you—many homeowners don’t know until there’s a leak or they’re selling their home.
Poly-B doesn’t always fail dramatically—but when it does, the damage can be devastating. Slow leaks behind walls can lead to:
And for homes with infloor heating, boiler systems, or on-demand water heaters, Poly-B can jeopardize the integrity of your entire mechanical system—especially under pressure or fluctuating temperatures.
There is no approved repair method that guarantees Poly-B won’t fail again. Replacement is the only safe, code-compliant solution.
Today’s replacement options include:
At Project Heating and Plumbing, we specialize in Poly-B replacement done right—clean installs, minimal drywall disruption, and full compliance with Alberta Plumbing Code.
When you hire a pro, Poly-B replacement typically involves:
We ensure all boiler, domestic, and zone piping is safe, leak-free, and built to last. For many homeowners, we can complete the job in 1–3 days depending on home size and complexity.
Removing Poly-B isn’t just about preventing disaster—it’s an investment in your home’s value.
If you’re planning to sell, refinance, or upgrade your heating system, now is the perfect time to remove Poly-B.
Poly-B piping is a ticking time bomb in many Alberta homes. Whether you're dealing with past leaks, planning a renovation, or simply want peace of mind, replacing Poly-B with modern, reliable piping is one of the smartest long-term decisions you can make.
Worried about Poly-B in your home?
Book a professional inspection with Project Heating and Plumbing today. We’ll assess your system, walk you through your options, and give you a clear, honest quote with no pressure.
