Poly B Pipe Replacement
The Poly B Replacement Options
Installing a new plumbing system into a building requires adequate knowledge about the right material for performance, efficiency, safety, and durability. Different types of pipes are available for piping purposes, and they each come with a different estimated life expectancy. Here is a list of available home piping options.
Class A PEX Piping
(High-Grade)
- Class A PEX is the highest-rated PEX piping available on the market.
- In its most advanced grade, this pipe can handle up to 497 psi.
- Top manufacturers warranty piping for up to 25 years.
- With a cross-linked development process, this PEX piping can withstand multiple occasions of freezing and extreme heat applications.
- Class A PEX can be ordered in O2 (oxygen barrier), making it the perfect PEX for in-floor heating applications and domestic water lines.
- Estimated life expectancy is 100+ years
Sub-Standard
Class B PEX Piping
(Mid-Grade)
- Class B PEX is the pipe most plumbers refer to as “ PEX“ likely because of lack of training and because it is regularly accessible through typical plumbing suppliers.
- Ratings for Class B PEX range from 100 – 110 psi.
- The pipe is cross-linked and has adequate freezing and heat-resistant prevention qualities.
- Class B PEX can be ordered in an O2 Barrier tubing for in-floor heat applications.
- Estimated life expectancy is 50 years
Sub-Standard
Class C PEX Piping
(Low-Grade)
- This type of pipe is commonly found in big box home improvement stores and was the first type of PEX piping released on the market.
- This PEX is only rated for 80-100psi.
- Can come color-coded
- Class C PEX has low resistance to high heat and will commonly burst if frozen.
- Estimated life expectancy is 50 years.
Know What Waterline Plumbing System Is In Your Home
Kitec Piping
Kitec Piping was installed in buildings between 1997 – 2005. Kitec is prone to corrosion and failure. Life expectancy is yet to be revealed.
Polybutylene Piping
Poly B piping was used as a replacement for copper piping. Due to their high rate of failure, their life expectancy rate is between 3 and 25 years.
Copper Piping
Copper piping is commonly used in older water supply lines. They are resistant to corrosion and are reliable. The life expectancy is 50 years.