Temperamental Poly Pipe
Temperamental Poly Pipe | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Cowan
Burst fittings, discoloured water and pressure drops can turn everyday plumbing into a guessing game, especially with the temperamental poly pipes common around Cowan. HEP’s local technicians have seen it all—from brittle joins that snap on the first cool night to underground leaks quietly soaking your garden. That experience means we can pinpoint weaknesses fast, replace faulty lengths with durable materials and leave you with a system that finally behaves.
Our targeted pipe upgrades service combines high–quality PEX or copper replacements with smart routing and insulation, so you get consistent flow, cleaner water and lower long-term costs. Whether you’re renovating a single bathroom or future-proofing the whole house, we schedule work around your routine and keep disruption to a minimum—backed by clear quotes and a workmanship guarantee that’s as solid as the new pipes we fit.
FAQs
Why are the original polybutylene (PB) pipes failing in many Cowan homes?
Polybutylene was widely installed in Cowan and surrounding suburbs between the late-1970s and mid-1990s because it was cheap and easy to work with. Unfortunately, our local water supply is slightly chlorinated, and chlorine gradually breaks down PB from the inside. After 20-30 years the pipe walls become brittle, fittings loosen and spontaneous pin-hole leaks appear. Temperature swings in roof and under-floor spaces accelerate the process, which is why Cowan’s older properties are now experiencing a spike in burst pipe call-outs.
What warning signs tell me my poly pipes need upgrading rather than another repair?
• Repeated small leaks appearing in different sections within a short period. • Visible hairline cracks or flaking on exposed grey or black PB pipe. • Discoloured water or reduced pressure after a repair—evidence of internal pipe degradation. • Crimp-ring fittings that can be twisted by hand—an indication the pipe has shrunk. • Water damage stains on ceilings under bathrooms or laundries. If two or more of these symptoms are present, a full upgrade is usually more cost-effective than chasing future leaks.
How does your poly pipe upgrade service work from start to finish?
1. Free on-site assessment: We map existing pipe runs with moisture meters and inspection cameras. 2. Fixed-price quote: You receive a written scope covering pipe removal, new material, wall/yard reinstatement and warranty. 3. Preparation: Furniture is protected, water is isolated and temporary water points are set up so toilets can still flush. 4. Re-pipe: We generally run new lines through roof or sub-floor cavities to minimise wall cutting. Old PB is removed where accessible and capped where not. 5. Pressure test & certification: The new system is tested at 1500 kPa for 30 minutes and a form 16 compliance certificate is issued. 6. Patch & paint: Wall/ceiling openings are patched to paint-ready condition and gardens are reinstated. Most Cowan homes are fully re-piped in one to two days.
What replacement materials do you recommend and why?
In Cowan we specify either PEX-A or copper: • PEX-A (cross-linked polyethylene) resists chlorine, handles local water temperatures, is flexible (fewer joints) and comes with 25-year manufacturer warranties. • Copper (Type B hard-drawn) is time-tested, UV stable for external runs and can share wall cavities with electrical. We insulate to reduce condensation and noise. We discuss your budget, water quality and future renovation plans before finalising the material choice.
Will upgrading my pipes disrupt my household life and how long will it take?
Water is typically off for 4-6 hours on day 1 while the main feeds are switched. We schedule this block between school drop-off and late afternoon. Temporary hose connections keep one toilet operational. Kitchen taps are usually back online by dinner time. Holes made in plasterboard are about the size of a smartphone and are patched the same day. A three-bed, two-bath Cowan home takes 1½ days; larger properties up to 3 days. We vacuum and remove debris daily so you can live in the house during the work.
Are there rebates, warranty or insurance benefits when I replace poly pipes now?
While there are no government rebates, most insurers in NSW apply an age-loading excess or will decline future water damage claims once a property has a documented history of PB failures. Submitting our completion certificate and photos to your insurer often restores standard policy coverage and can lower your excess. You’ll also receive: • 25-year manufacturer warranty on PEX-A or 50-year warranty on copper. • 10-year workmanship guarantee from our licensed plumbers. Proactive replacement therefore protects both your property and your insurance premiums.