Polybutylene Lines
Polybutylene Lines | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | McDonald
Many homes and businesses in McDonald were built with polybutylene supply lines—those once-popular gray plastics that are now notorious for hidden leaks and sudden ruptures. HEP’s licensed plumbers replace every inch of that unreliable piping with code-approved materials, restoring water pressure and protecting drywall, flooring, and cherished belongings from costly damage. Our team arrives on time, respects your space, and keeps you informed at every turn, so the only surprise is how smoothly the project goes.
From single-bath bungalows to sprawling commercial complexes, we tailor pipe upgrades to each property’s unique layout and budget. You’ll enjoy crisp, clean water, lower insurance headaches, and the peace of mind that comes from a transferable workmanship guarantee backed by McDonald’s most trusted plumbing company. Call or click today, and let HEP turn yesterday’s plumbing into tomorrow’s reliability.
FAQs
What is polybutylene plumbing and why is it a concern for McDonald homeowners?
Polybutylene (PB) is a gray, blue, or black plastic pipe installed in many homes between 1978 and 1996. Over time, chlorine and other disinfectants in McDonald’s municipal water supply can cause the pipe and its acetal fittings to become brittle, flake, and eventually rupture. Because the deterioration occurs from the inside out, leaks often appear suddenly and without warning, leading to expensive water damage and mold growth. PB plumbing is no longer accepted by U.S. building codes, and many insurance carriers exclude it from coverage, making proactive replacement the safest option.
How can I tell if my McDonald home still has polybutylene lines?
Look for ½" to 1" flexible gray tubing feeding water heaters, under sinks, or near the main shut-off valve. PB is usually stamped with “PB2110” or “PB2110 ASTM D3309.” You may also find clamped metal or plastic fittings rather than soldered copper joints. If your home was built or re-piped between 1978 and 1996 and you see gray plastic supply lines, call a licensed plumber for a confirmation inspection. Our technicians in McDonald perform free visual assessments and, when necessary, use borescopes and pressure tests to verify the pipe material without damaging your walls.
What risks are associated with keeping existing polybutylene pipes?
1. Sudden Bursts: PB pipes can fail catastrophically after decades of silent degradation. 2. Water Damage: Even a small split can discharge hundreds of gallons per hour, destroying drywall, flooring, and personal property. 3. Mold & Mildew: Moisture trapped behind walls encourages fungal growth that threatens indoor air quality. 4. Higher Insurance Premiums or Denials: Many insurers either surcharge policies that contain PB or decline renewal until the piping is replaced. 5. Reduced Property Value: Real-estate buyers often negotiate steep discounts—or walk away—when PB plumbing is discovered during inspection.
What are my replacement options and their advantages?
The most common upgrade materials in McDonald are PEX-A (cross-linked polyethylene) and Type L copper. • PEX-A: Flexible, resistant to freezing, fewer fittings (fewer potential leak points), 25-year manufacturer warranty, and typically 30–40 % less expensive to install than copper. • Type L Copper: Proven longevity (50+ years), high heat tolerance, recyclable, and excellent for exposed runs where UV resistance matters. Your plumber can help you weigh cost, durability, and any local code considerations before deciding.
What does the pipe-upgrade process involve and how disruptive will it be?
1. Assessment & Estimate: A licensed plumber maps your existing water lines and provides a written quote. 2. Preparation: Furniture is moved, floors protected, and water supply shut off. Most homes keep at least one functioning bathroom each evening. 3. Access Points: Rather than demolishing entire walls, we cut small strategic openings to pull new PEX or copper through joist spaces. 4. Installation: Old PB is abandoned in place or removed, new lines are run, and pressure-tested to 150 psi. 5. Wall Repair & Clean-Up: Drywall patches, texture matching, and paint touch-ups are included or coordinated with a finishing contractor. A typical 2-bath McDonald home takes 2–4 days start-to-finish, with water restored every night unless otherwise arranged.
Does homeowners insurance or local utility assistance cover PB pipe replacement?
Standard homeowners policies rarely pay for proactive upgrades, but they may cover resulting water damage from a sudden failure—minus deductibles and future premium increases. Some carriers now require PB replacements for renewal, so upgrading can safeguard your coverage. McDonald’s water utility does not subsidize pipe replacements, but low-interest home-improvement loans and certain FHA 203(k) programs can finance the work. We provide detailed invoices and photos that many lenders need for these programs, and we’re happy to speak with your insurance adjuster about any available credits.