Identifying Polybutylene Plumbing in the Home

How to Identify It

Polybutylene (PB) plumbing, when used for the potable water supply system in the house, is a gray, (possibly silver or black) plastic pipe.  Since the pipe is used with copper stab-outs for fixtures with exposed plumbing (such as in the bathroom), it is necessary to look in an area where the main water supply plumbing is exposed, such as in an unfinished basement, crawlspace or under the kitchen sink.  Note: PB for underground service from the water company to a structure or "Yard Service Line" is blue (possibly gray or black).  Yard Service is not readily visible.  PB pipe is not used for drains, waste or vent piping.

The condition of the PB pipe and fitting cannot be determined by any inspection method since there are no visible signs of deterioration until failure occurs.

What to do?

There is no single course of action that is recommended for consumers with a PB system.  Many recommend replacing the entire system, even if there have not been any problems.  This course of action should be considered on an individual basis, taking into account a person's level of risk aversion, the types of materials used and the age of the system, as well as past performance.   For information on the Cox v Shell settlement contact the Consumer Plumbing Recovery Center at (800) 356-3496 or visiting their Web site at www.pbpipe.com.