Poly-butyl Piping
Poly-butyl Piping | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Coalmont
Burst-prone poly-butyl lines can turn a peaceful Coalmont morning into an expensive, water-soaked headache. HEP’s specialized plumbers replace those aging pipes with modern, code-compliant materials, restoring reliable water flow and adding value to your home. Our streamlined process pinpoints hidden leaks, protects your drywall and flooring, and leaves you with a lifetime warranty—so you can forget about surprise puddles and rising utility bills.
From the first free inspection to the final pressure test, we keep you informed, on schedule, and in budget. Whether you’re planning a renovation or responding to an emergency, our expert pipe upgrades eliminate the weak links in your plumbing system and safeguard your investment for decades to come. Call HEP today and enjoy the peace of mind that only a truly watertight home can offer.
FAQs
What is poly-butyl (polybutylene) piping, and why is it a concern in Coalmont homes?
Poly-butyl piping is a flexible gray plastic plumbing material installed widely between the late 1970s and mid-1990s. Over time it becomes brittle and can react with disinfectants in municipal water, leading to micro-fractures and sudden leaks. Because Coalmont’s water chemistry accelerates this deterioration, many insurers now demand replacement or raise premiums for homes that still have poly-butyl lines.
How can I tell if my house still has poly-butyl pipes?
Look for ½" to 1" gray plastic tubing stamped with “PB2110” or similar codes near exposed plumbing (water heater, shut-off valves, crawlspaces). Fittings are often plastic or copper-colored crimp rings. If you’re unsure, our technicians provide a free inspection using small wall/ceiling access points and a borescope camera to confirm pipe material without major demolition.
What are the benefits of upgrading to modern piping materials?
Replacing poly-butyl with PEX-A or Type-L copper offers: • Drastically reduced leak risk and potential water damage • Compliance with current British Columbia Plumbing Code and easier resale • Lower insurance rates and stronger coverage options • Better water pressure and temperature stability • 25-plus-year manufacturer warranties compared to the expired poly-butyl warranty
What does the pipe-upgrade process involve, and will my water be shut off for long?
A typical three-bedroom Coalmont home takes 2–4 days. Day 1: map plumbing, protect floors, and prep. Day 2: isolate sections and run new PEX through existing wall cavities to minimize drywall cuts; water is off 4–6 hours. Day 3: pressure-test, switch fixtures, and patch small access holes. Larger homes may need an extra day, but we never leave you without overnight water—temporary bypass lines are installed if needed.
How much does a poly-butyl repipe cost in Coalmont?
Pricing depends on home size, number of fixtures, and material choice. On average: 1-bath cottage $4,000–$6,000; 2-bath rancher $6,500–$8,500; 3-bath two-storey $8,500–$12,000. Quotes include permits, materials, labour, drywall repair, and haul-away. We offer 0% financing for 12 months and coordinate with insurance when previous leaks are documented.
Do I need a permit or inspection for a repipe, and will you handle it?
Yes. The Thompson-Nicola Regional District and the Province of BC require a plumbing permit and final inspection for any whole-home repipe. Our licensed, bonded plumbers secure the permit, schedule inspections, and provide you with the approval documents for your records and future home sale disclosures.