Polybutylene Kills a Home Price
When selling a house, an inspection is a crucial step, and the results often reveal at least one potential issue. This can lead to price reductions or even a deal falling through. One of the most significant deal-breakers in older homes is the presence of polybutylene pipes. In the 1980s, polybutylene was seen as a revolutionary material for plumbing due to its affordability, flexibility, and ease of installation. However, it didn’t take long for the industry to realize that polybutylene piping came with serious flaws that could end up causing homeowners significant damage—and equally significant financial loss.
What Is Polybutylene Piping?
Polybutylene pipes were widely installed in homes built between the 1970s and 1990s as a cheaper alternative to copper. They were flexible, easy to install, and touted as the future of plumbing at the time. Polybutylene was used for both interior and exterior plumbing applications and was typically blue, gray, or black in color. For many homeowners, this material seemed like a great option—until the problems started to emerge.
The Hidden Dangers of Polybutylene Pipes
The major issue with polybutylene piping is its vulnerability to degradation from chlorine, which is commonly found in municipal water supplies. Over time, the chemical reaction between the chlorine and the polybutylene causes the pipes to flake and become brittle from the inside out. Because this degradation occurs internally, it’s nearly impossible to detect any issues until the pipes fail catastrophically, often resulting in severe leaks or flooding.
Unpredictable Failures: One of the most troubling aspects of polybutylene pipes is that their failure is unpredictable. They can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years before they begin to leak, but once they start to degrade, failure is inevitable. Unlike some other plumbing problems that show visible signs of wear or distress, polybutylene pipes often show no external indicators until they burst.
Joints and Unions as Weak Points: Most polybutylene pipe failures begin at joints and unions, which can be hidden inside walls or beneath floors. A small, undetected leak can lead to significant water damage over time, especially if it goes unnoticed. This kind of damage can weaken the home’s structural integrity and lead to costly repairs.
How Polybutylene Pipes Impact Home Value
The presence of polybutylene pipes in a home can have a dramatic impact on its marketability and overall value. Many potential buyers, aware of the problems associated with polybutylene, will either walk away from the deal or demand a significant reduction in price. In some cases, home insurance providers may even refuse to cover homes with polybutylene plumbing, adding another layer of complexity for sellers.
Harder to Sell: Homes with polybutylene plumbing are notoriously difficult to sell. Even if a buyer is interested, they will likely require a full pipe replacement before they agree to close the deal. This can cost homeowners thousands of dollars in repiping expenses, often wiping out potential profits from the sale.
Legal Action Risk: In some cases, sellers who fail to disclose the presence of polybutylene pipes may face legal action from buyers after the sale. Buyers who experience pipe failure soon after purchasing the home can sue for nondisclosure, resulting in costly legal fees and settlements for the seller.
Identifying Polybutylene Pipes
Polybutylene pipes can be blue, gray, or black in color, and they were commonly used in both indoor and outdoor plumbing. However, not all pipes of these colors are made from polybutylene, so it’s essential to have a professional plumber inspect the plumbing system to determine the material used. They can help homeowners determine if their pipes are polybutylene and advise them on the next steps for replacement.
What to Do If You Have Polybutylene Pipes: If your home has polybutylene plumbing, it’s important to take action before putting your house on the market. Replacing the pipes with more reliable materials, such as PEX or copper, can not only prevent future damage but also make the home far more appealing to potential buyers. While repiping a house can be an expensive undertaking, the long-term savings in terms of avoiding water damage and maintaining home value are well worth it.
Replacing Polybutylene Pipes: A Necessary Investment
For homeowners with polybutylene plumbing, repiping is often the only solution to avoid future failures. Modern materials like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) and copper are far more durable and resistant to the issues that plague polybutylene. While the upfront cost of repiping can be steep, ranging from $4,000 to $15,000 depending on the size of the home and the complexity of the plumbing system, it’s a necessary investment to protect both your property and its value.
The Benefits of Repiping:
- Increased Home Value: Replacing polybutylene pipes with more durable materials like copper or PEX can make your home more appealing to buyers and even increase its overall value.
- Prevention of Future Damage: By repiping before your polybutylene pipes fail, you can avoid costly water damage, mold growth, and structural repairs.
- Improved Insurance Coverage: Some home insurance companies may refuse to insure homes with polybutylene plumbing. Repiping can help you qualify for better coverage and lower premiums.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home’s plumbing system is reliable and free from the dangers of polybutylene will give you peace of mind as a homeowner.
Conclusion
Polybutylene pipes may have been hailed as the future of plumbing in the 1980s, but time has proven that they pose significant risks to homeowners. From unpredictable failures to costly water damage, the issues associated with polybutylene plumbing can have a devastating impact on your home’s value and marketability. If you have polybutylene pipes in your home, it’s essential to consider repiping as a proactive measure to protect your property and ensure a smooth sale when the time comes.
Super Brothers team specialize in repiping homes with modern, durable materials that will stand the test of time. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or simply want to protect it from future plumbing failures, our team of experienced professionals is here to help. Don’t let polybutylene plumbing kill your home’s value – contact us today to schedule an inspection and get a free estimate for repiping services.
