What Plumbing Pipe Was Outlawed?

What plumbing pipe was outlawed?

In the 1970s, a new type of plumbing pipe was introduced that promised to revolutionize the industry. This pipe, known as polybutylene, was cheaper and easier to install than traditional copper pipes, making it a popular choice for builders and homeowners alike. However, by the 1990s, polybutylene had become notorious for its tendency to fail, causing thousands of dollars in damage to homes and buildings. In response to growing concerns about the safety of polybutylene, the plumbing industry made the decision to outlaw its use. In this article, we will take a closer look at what led to the outlawing of polybutylene and what alternatives are now available.

What is Polybutylene?

Polybutylene is a plastic resin that was first introduced in the 1970s as a cheap alternative to copper pipes. It was hailed as a major breakthrough in plumbing technology, as it was easier to work with and could be used to create pipes of varying sizes and lengths. Polybutylene pipes quickly became a popular choice for builders and homeowners, as they were significantly cheaper than copper pipes.

The Problems with Polybutylene

Despite its initial popularity, polybutylene soon began to develop major problems. One of the biggest issues was that the pipes tended to fail or break after only a few years of use. This was due to the fact that polybutylene is highly susceptible to becoming brittle when exposed to certain chemicals, such as chlorine. In addition, the plastic resin used to make polybutylene became more brittle with age and exposure to the sun, which made it more likely to break.

Another issue with polybutylene was that it was prone to developing cracks and leaks. This was due to a phenomenon known as "creep," which occurs when the plastic in the pipes starts to stretch and deform over time. When this happens, the pipes can develop tiny cracks or leaks, which can lead to major water damage if not detected and repaired quickly.

Finally, polybutylene was found to be incompatible with certain plumbing fixtures, such as hot water heaters and water softeners. This was due to the fact that polybutylene can react with chemicals in the water, causing it to deteriorate or break down.

The Outlawing of Polybutylene

As the problems with polybutylene became more widely known, the plumbing industry began to take action to address the issue. In 1995, a class-action lawsuit was filed against the manufacturers of polybutylene pipes, alleging that the companies had knowingly sold defective products. This lawsuit resulted in a settlement of over $1 billion, which was used to compensate homeowners and businesses who had suffered damages due to polybutylene pipe failures.

In addition to the lawsuit, many states and local governments began to outlaw the use of polybutylene pipes in new construction. By 1996, over 25 states had banned the use of polybutylene pipes, citing concerns about their safety and reliability. Today, it is illegal to install polybutylene pipes in most parts of the United States.

Alternatives to Polybutylene

With the outlawing of polybutylene, builders and homeowners have had to look for alternative plumbing materials. The most popular alternative to polybutylene today is cross-linked polyethylene, or PEX. This material is similar to polybutylene in many ways, as it is lightweight, flexible, and easy to work with. However, PEX is much more resistant to chlorine and other chemicals, making it a more durable and reliable plumbing option.

Copper pipes also remain a popular choice for plumbing, as they are highly resistant to corrosion and can last for decades. However, copper pipes are significantly more expensive than PEX, which can make them less appealing for budget-conscious builders and homeowners.

Conclusion

The outlawing of polybutylene pipes is a cautionary tale about the dangers of rushing new technologies to market without fully understanding their long-term safety and reliability. While polybutylene may have seemed like a breakthrough in plumbing technology at the time, its subsequent failures and widespread banning serve as a reminder that not all new materials are created equal. Today, PEX and copper remain the top choices for plumbing materials, as they have been proven to be effective and reliable in a variety of settings. As always, it is important for homeowners and builders to do their research and choose the plumbing materials that are best suited to their needs and budget.