IS THIS PBT or PEX?

gallen1 · February 22, 2006, 12:54am

Can you guys give me your opinion on this pipe,is it polybutylene?House was built in 1994.

hgordon · February 22, 2006, 1:02am

Polybutylene!

jhagarty · February 22, 2006, 2:01am

PB 2110

Look closer at the piping to determine the proper nomenclature as each is properly marked.

If PB2110, recommend replacement of all interior piping.

gallen1 · February 22, 2006, 2:36am

Thanks a bunch I looked closer and found a PB2100 on the pipe.

rray · February 22, 2006, 2:57pm

There still is quite a lot of confusion and debate about PB2110, especially if the connections are metal (usually brass) like that shown in the picture. I think a better recommendation would be to consult with a licensed plumbing professional since they are still fighting about whether or not all PB2110 needs to be replaced.

rray · February 22, 2006, 3:00pm

Went to get the references.

Here’s what I put in my report:

**Attic—Active water supply pipes in attic appeared to be polybutylene plastic (hereafter, “PB”). **Although evidence appears to be inconclusive, it is believed that chlorine and fluorine react with PB, causing pipes to scale, flake, and become brittle. Micro‑fractures can result, and the basic structural integrity of the system can be reduced, thereby becoming weak and possibly leaking without warning. A home inspection cannot determine if PB water supply pipes are about to leak simply by looking at the outside of the pipes since they apparently deteriorate from the inside, and they can split or burst under pressure at any time. Insurance companies are known to decline to offer insurance on homes with PB water supply pipes because of associated problems with it. For helpful information about PB pipes and a class-action lawsuit, click here](http://www.usinspect.com/car/1203plumbingpb.asp), click here](http://www.polybutylene.com/), and click here](http://www.pbpipe.com/index1.htm). Recommend further evaluation by a licensed plumbing professional before close of escrow.