Polybutylene Lines
Polybutylene Lines | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Mulberry
HEP is Mulberry’s trusted specialist for replacing aging polybutylene lines before they crack, leak, and drive up repair costs. Our licensed plumbers use modern PEX and copper solutions to boost water pressure, improve water quality, and safeguard your home’s value—all while respecting your schedule and budget. From the first inspection to the final walkthrough, we keep you informed and your property spotless.
Choose HEP for stress-free pipe upgrades and enjoy a worry-free plumbing system backed by our workmanship guarantee and 24/7 support. Book your free estimate today and see why homeowners throughout Mulberry count on us to bring reliability back to their taps.
FAQs
What is polybutylene piping and why is it a problem in Mulberry homes?
Polybutylene (PB) is a gray, flexible plastic pipe installed in many houses between the late 1970s and mid-1990s. It was once popular for its low cost and ease of installation, but testing later showed that the pipe and its acetal (plastic) fittings become brittle when exposed to the chlorine commonly found in Mulberry’s municipal water. Over time this chemical reaction can cause sudden leaks or catastrophic ruptures, which is why most insurers now refuse coverage on homes that still contain PB piping.
How can I tell if my house has polybutylene pipes?
Look for ½" to 1" gray tubing running to water heaters, under sinks, or in crawl spaces. PB is usually stamped with the code "PB2110" and joined with metal or plastic crimp rings. If your home was built or repiped between 1978 and 1998, there’s a strong chance PB was used. When you book an inspection with our Mulberry plumbing team, we trace all accessible supply lines, examine fittings inside walls with a borescope if needed, and provide a written report confirming the pipe material.
What risks are associated with leaving polybutylene lines in place?
1. Hidden deterioration – the pipe often fails from the inside out, giving no visual warning. 2. Sudden water damage – PB can split without notice, flooding walls, floors, and foundations. 3. Higher insurance premiums – many carriers surcharge or exclude water-damage coverage for PB. 4. Lower resale value – Florida real-estate contracts now ask sellers to disclose PB, and buyers frequently demand replacement before closing. 5. Limited repair parts – manufacturers stopped producing PB fittings, so even small leaks can require costly work-arounds.
What are my options for upgrading or repiping?
We offer two proven replacement materials: • PEX-A (cross-linked polyethylene) – flexible, corrosion-resistant, and installs with few fittings. • Type L copper – time-tested metal piping ideal for customers wanting a 50+ year solution. Our licensed technicians design a new supply system that bypasses existing PB, pull the new pipes through walls or attic spaces with minimal drywall cuts, switch fixtures to new shut-off valves, and haul away the old material for eco-friendly recycling.
How long does a polybutylene pipe replacement take and will I be without water?
Most single-story Mulberry homes can be fully repiped in 1–2 days; larger or two-story homes may take 3–4 days. We plan the project so water is restored at the end of each workday. Temporary bypass lines keep essential fixtures such as one toilet and one sink active while drywall repair or painting is completed.
How much does polybutylene pipe replacement cost in Mulberry and do you offer financing?
Costs depend on square footage, number of plumbing fixtures, and pipe material chosen. In Mulberry, typical projects range from $4,000–$9,000 for PEX and $6,500–$12,000 for copper. We provide free on-site estimates with no obligation. To make upgrades affordable, we partner with finance companies that offer 0% short-term promotional plans and long-term low-interest options up to 120 months. We also submit documentation that may lower your homeowner’s insurance once PB is removed.