Polybutylene Pipes: Why One Leak Is Never the Last

Polybutylene Pipes: Why One Leak Is Never the Last

If your home was built between the late 1970s and the mid-1990s, there’s a chance it was originally plumbed with polybutylene pipes — those gray plastic water lines that once seemed like the future of plumbing. Unfortunately, time has shown us otherwise.

What Is Polybutylene Plumbing?

Polybutylene (often called "poly" piping) was used in millions of homes because it was cheap and easy to install. But over the years, it became clear that polybutylene breaks down when exposed to oxidants in municipal water — like chlorine. This leads to cracking, flaking, and eventually catastrophic leaks.

Why One Leak Is Never the Last

When one section of polybutylene fails, it's not an isolated problem — it's a warning sign. The rest of the system was installed at the same time and has experienced the same water pressure and chemistry. If one leak happens, others are almost guaranteed to follow.

We’ve seen countless homes in Fort Lauderdale with flood damage, mold, and ruined flooring — all caused by a preventable second or third leak. It’s not a matter of if, but when.

Insurance Issues & Real Estate Red Flags

Many insurance companies charge higher premiums or refuse to cover homes with polybutylene plumbing. If you're selling your home, it could even lower your property value or delay closing due to mandatory repiping requirements by buyers or insurers.

Benefits of Replacing Polybutylene

• Prevent major leaks and water damage
• Lower your insurance risk
• Increase your home's value and resale appeal
• Enjoy peace of mind with modern, durable plumbing

Upgrade Before It Becomes an Emergency

At Amy’s Plumbing, we specialize in polybutylene pipe replacement in Fort Lauderdale using long-lasting PEX or copper piping. Our repipe projects are clean, fast, and code-compliant — with minimal disruption to your home.

Don’t wait for the next flood. Call 954-530-0241 or schedule your free repipe estimate online today.