Should you buy a house with polybutylene pipes why not?
Polybutylene pipes are commonly used in construction projects because they are durable and cost effective. They are also considered environmentally friendly since they don’t contain harmful chemicals or heavy metals.
Polybutylene pipes are made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic. PET is a type of polymer that is widely used in manufacturing bottles, packaging materials, and other containers. The material is inexpensive and recyclable.
However, some homeowners are now questioning whether these pipes should be used in their homes. Some say that they cause mold growth and water damage. Others claim that they are toxic.
Should I Buy a House with Polybutylene Pipes?
The short answer is yes! If your home has been built using polybutylene pipes, then it is safe to use them.
However, if the pipes have been installed incorrectly or damaged by leaks, then you may need to remove them. In this case, you will want to contact a professional plumbing company for help.
How Do Polybutylene Pipes Work?
Polybutylene pipes work just like any other pipe. They are connected together using couplings. When you buy a house, the builder installs all the pipes needed for running water throughout the house. These pipes include hot and cold water lines, drain lines, and waste lines.
When the pipes are installed, the builder connects them to each other using couplings. Couplings come in many different styles and sizes. They can be made out of metal, plastic, or rubber. For instance, PVC pipe couplings are typically made of plastic while copper couplings are usually made of metal.
Are Issues with Polybutylene Pipes Guaranteed?
No. Although there are no known issues with polybutylene pipes, you still need to check the pipes periodically for problems. This includes checking the connections between the pipes as well as the joints where the pipes meet.
If you find any signs of leaking or damage, then you need to fix the problem immediately. Otherwise, you could face serious health risks such as exposure to lead, asbestos, and radon gas.
Do Polybutylene Pipes Cause Mold Growth?
Yes, but not always. There are two types of mold: aerobic and anaerobic. Aerobic molds thrive in moist environments. They grow best when exposed to oxygen. As a result, they tend to grow on surfaces that are damp or wet.
Anaerobic molds do not require oxygen to survive. Instead, they thrive in low-oxygen conditions. Because they live off decaying organic matter, they often grow in places that are dry.
Mold spores are everywhere. You can get them through air currents, soil, food items, and even clothing. Once you inhale them, they enter your body through your nose or mouth. Then, they travel through your bloodstream until they reach your lungs.
Once inside your lungs, the mold spores begin growing. It takes about three days for them to mature into colonies. During this time period, the mold releases toxins that irritate your respiratory system. Eventually, the toxins build up in your blood stream.
Why polybutylene pipes are bad news for your home?
Because polybutylene pipes are resistant to heat, they are perfect for piping hot water. However, they also make it easy for mold to grow. The reason why is because they are made from polyethylene.
This means that the material is porous. As a result, it allows moisture to pass through easily. Since polyethylene does not absorb moisture, it makes it easier for mold to grow.
The good news is that you can prevent mold growth from happening. To do so, you should regularly inspect your pipes. If you see any leaks, you should repair them right away.
How to tell the home has polybutylene pipes?
You will know if your home has polybutylene pipe because of the following symptoms:
• Water pressure is lower than normal
• Your toilet overflows frequently
• Your sink drains slowly
• Your bathroom floor is stained
• Your kitchen sinks have slow draining
• Your shower stalls leak
• Your basement floods
• Your roof is damaged
• Your walls are discolored
• Your windows are cracked
• Your ceilings sag
Is Polybutylene Pipe Repair Worth the Cost?
Yes! In fact, repairing polybutylene pipes is one of the most cost-effective repairs you can perform. That’s because they are relatively inexpensive to replace.
Polybutylene pipes are also very durable. As long as you keep them clean, they will last for decades.
However, if you neglect your pipes, they may start leaking sooner rather than later. When this happens, you will be faced with expensive plumbing repairs.
Is Polybutylene Pipe Replacement Safe?
Yes, as long as you hire a licensed plumber who knows what he’s doing. Before replacing your old pipes, you should first check whether they are safe to use.
To do so, you should run your faucet at full blast. This will cause some water to come out. If there is no leakage, then it means that your pipes are fine.
If you notice any signs of damage, however, you should immediately contact a professional plumber. He will help you determine whether you need to replace your pipes.
If you decide to go ahead with the replacement process, you should choose high quality pipes. These pipes are made from materials such as copper, brass, and stainless steel. They are much more durable than those made from polybutylene.
How to tell the home has polybutylene pipes?
It’s hard to miss these pipes. You’ll know if your house has polybutylene pipes by checking the following areas:
• Bathroom floors
• Kitchen floors
• Sinks
• Showers
• Stairways
• Basements
• Ceilings
• Walls
• Floors
What Are the Different Types of Plumbing Systems?
There are two types of plumbing systems: gravity-fed and pressurized. Both works on the same principle, but their methods differ in how they operate.
Gravity-fed systems rely on gravity to move water around. They include both residential and commercial plumbing systems.
Conclusion
As you can see, buying a house with polybutylene pipes is not a bad idea. However, you must take care of your pipes properly. Otherwise, you might end up spending a lot of money fixing problems that could have been prevented.