Poly-B Piping
Poly-B Piping | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Elora
Imagine opening your walls to find brittle, greying Poly-B lines snaking through your Elora home—an unseen risk waiting to burst. HEP’s certified plumbers turn that hidden liability into a seamless, stress-free transformation, using modern PEX and copper that outlast, out-perform and out-protect. From the first camera inspection to the final drywall patch, we work cleanly, quickly, and with total respect for your schedule and space, so the only trace we leave behind is reliable water flow and boosted property value.
Homeowners call us for pipe upgrades because we handle every detail: permits, material disposal, and meticulous pressure-testing before we sign off. With transparent quotes, extended warranties, and friendly local techs on call 24/7, you’ll never wonder who to trust when Poly-B problems strike—HEP is already on site, turning aging plumbing into peace of mind.
FAQs
What is Poly-B piping and why is it considered a risk in Elora homes?
Poly-B (polybutylene) is a grey plastic water-supply pipe installed in many Canadian homes between 1978 and the late 1990s. Over time it reacts with disinfectants in municipal water, becomes brittle, and is prone to sudden leaks or bursts. Insurance companies now classify it as a high-risk material, and some even refuse coverage unless it is replaced. Upgrading eliminates that risk, lowers insurance premiums, and brings your plumbing up to current Ontario Building Code standards.
How can I tell if my house has Poly-B plumbing?
Look for grey, flexible ½" or ¾" tubing entering fixtures or your water heater, often stamped with "PB2110." It is usually secured with copper or plastic crimp rings. If your basement is finished, Poly-B may be hidden behind drywall; in that case, we can perform a free visual inspection, trace exposed lines, and use a borescope or thermal camera to confirm the pipe material without destructive wall cuts.
What issues does Poly-B typically cause before it fails?
Warning signs include small pin-hole leaks, discoloured water, decreased water pressure, or staining around ceiling drywall. Because Poly-B deteriorates from the inside, visible cues often appear late; catastrophic bursts can occur without warning. Many homeowners discover problems only after costly water damage. Proactive replacement is far less expensive than emergency repairs and remediation.
What replacement materials do you recommend for a Poly-B upgrade?
In most Elora homes we repipe with PEX-a (cross-linked polyethylene) because it is flexible, freeze-resistant, and approved by the Ontario Building Code. It can often be fished through existing wall cavities, minimizing drywall removal. For exposed mechanical rooms we sometimes install Type L copper for added durability. We will discuss your water quality, budget, and project goals to design a hybrid or single-material solution that suits your home.
How disruptive is the repiping process and how long will it take?
A typical single-family home in Elora can be fully repiped in 2–4 days. We begin by isolating zones and protecting floors and furniture. Small access holes are cut strategically; drywall repair and painting are included in our quoted price. Water is usually shut off for only a few hours, so you can remain in the house throughout the project. We clean up daily and leave bathrooms operational each night.
What does a Poly-B replacement cost and what warranty do you provide?
Costs vary with home size, number of fixtures, and finish level, but most Elora upgrades range from $5,500 to $10,500 plus HST. We provide a fixed-price written quote after inspection—no surprises. Our workmanship is warranted for 25 years, and the PEX-a tubing we install carries a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. We also submit proof of replacement to your insurer, which can reduce your annual premiums.