Repiping
Polybutylene pipe replacement
Polybutylene is a gray, blue or black plastic supply pipe installed in many homes from roughly 1978 to 1995. It can fail without warning, especially at fittings. Replacing it means a repipe, usually in PEX, and many insurers and buyers ask for it.
- Same-day service when a plumber is available
- Serving the Phoenix metro
- Quote before work
The Valley built a huge share of its housing during the polybutylene era, so the pipe turns up in homes across Mesa, Glendale, Peoria, Tempe, Phoenix and the Sun Cities.
You can often spot it where the pipe comes out of the wall at the water heater, under sinks, or at the toilet supply, usually stamped 'PB2110'.
Polybutylene replacement at a glance
- Era
- Homes built about 1978–1995
- Look for
- PB2110 stamp, gray flexible pipe
- Fix
- Full repipe, usually in PEX
Signs you need polybutylene replacement
- Gray flexible pipe marked PB2110
- Plastic or copper crimp rings at fittings
- Built between about 1978 and 1995
- An insurer asking about pipe material
How the plumber handles it
- 1
Confirm
The plumber confirms the pipe type at several visible points.
- 2
Plan the repipe
They plan PEX routes and fixture connections, as in a standard repipe.
- 3
Replace
All polybutylene supply lines are replaced and tested, then inspected under permit.
What affects the cost
Prices depend on what the plumber finds, so the plumber quotes on site. These are the main factors:
- Home size and fixture count
- Attic access
- Drywall patching
- Permit fees
Frequently asked questions
Is polybutylene illegal in Arizona?
It isn't illegal to have it, but it's no longer allowed for new installs under current codes, and some insurers limit coverage for homes that still have it.
Polybutylene replacement across the Valley
Need polybutylene replacement in the Valley?
Same-day service when a plumber is available. One call connects you with a licensed plumber who serves your ZIP.