Poly B Removal/Replacement
Calgary’s Trusted Poly B Replacement Experts
Is your home at risk due to aging Poly B pipes? From insurance concerns to potential water damage, Shift Heating & Cooling provides expert Poly B removal and replacement throughout Calgary and surrounding areas. Our specialist team delivers pragmatic solutions that protect your home while upgrading your plumbing system with modern, reliable piping.
Our Poly B Replacement Services
Complete Poly B Replacement
Eliminate the risk of polybutylene pipe failure. Our skilled plumbers systematically replace all Poly B piping throughout your home—ensuring comprehensive removal of this problematic material and installation of modern, reliable plumbing systems that provide peace of mind and long-term reliability.
Partial System Upgrades
When complete replacement isn’t immediately feasible, we provide strategic partial replacements, including critical sections most prone to failure. Our technicians prioritize high-risk areas while developing a long-term replacement plan that addresses your specific situation and budget considerations.
Why Choose Shift Heating & Cooling for Poly B Replacement?
Specialized Experience
As Poly B replacement specialists since 2009, we understand these challenging projects thoroughly. Our technicians bring specialized knowledge and techniques that minimize disruption while ensuring complete system integrity.
Transparent Pricing
We provide clear, upfront pricing before starting any work. No surprises, no hidden fees - just honest service at fair rates.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Our replacement methods minimize wall and ceiling openings whenever possible, reducing restoration requirements while still ensuring complete system replacement.
Poly B Concerns We Address
Insurance Issues
Resolve coverage problems and policy restrictions
Catastrophic Leaks
Prevent sudden pipe failures and water damage
Home Resale Challenges
Address inspection issues that complicate property sales
System Degradation
Replace pipes before they develop leaks and failures
Micro-Fractures
Eliminate invisible cracks that can suddenly fail
Water Quality Concerns
Remove pipes that can affect water taste and quality
CALL US NOW
587-742-7678
Frequently Asked Questions About Poly B Replacement
How do I know if my home has Poly B plumbing?
Polybutylene (Poly B) pipes were commonly installed in Calgary homes built between 1975 and 1998. These pipes are typically gray (occasionally black or blue) plastic with “PB2110” printed along the length. They’re most visible near your water heater, at fixture connections, or in unfinished basements. Poly B was often connected with acetal plastic or copper crimp fittings. If you’re uncertain, our technicians can perform a free inspection to identify Poly B in your home. Properties in communities like Edgemont, Scenic Acres, Hidden Valley, and other developments from this era commonly contain these systems.
What are the risks of keeping Poly B pipes in my home?
Poly B pipes deteriorate from the inside out when exposed to chlorinated water, developing micro-fractures that can suddenly fail without warning. The material becomes increasingly brittle with age, with most systems now well beyond their expected lifespan. This presents several risks: catastrophic water damage from sudden pipe bursts (typically occurring when you’re away from home), insurance coverage limitations or denial, difficulty selling your home, and increased repair frequency as the system continues to deteriorate. Waiting until pipes actually fail typically results in significantly higher costs due to water damage remediation.
How much does Poly B replacement cost in Calgary?
Poly B replacement costs in Calgary typically range from $7,000-$15,000 for average homes, depending on size, configuration, and accessibility factors. Two-story homes with finished basements generally fall in the $9,000-$15,000 range, while single-level homes or those with unfinished basements might range from $7,000-$10,000. The investment protects against potentially much larger costs from water damage, insurance issues, and property value impacts. We provide detailed, transparent quotes after thorough inspection, with financing options available to make this essential upgrade affordable.
What replacement options do you recommend for Poly B?
We primarily recommend PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing as the optimal replacement for Poly B. PEX offers several advantages: exceptional freeze resistance, flexibility that reduces connection points, compatibility with Calgary’s water chemistry, and a proven track record of reliability. For specific applications where appropriate, we may recommend copper piping. Both options provide significant improvements over Poly B, with expected lifespans exceeding 50 years when properly installed. Our specialists assess your specific home conditions and water usage patterns to recommend the most appropriate replacement materials for long-term reliability.
How disruptive is Poly B replacement and how long does it take?
Poly B replacement typically takes 2-4 days for average Calgary homes, depending on size and complexity. We utilize minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, strategically placing access points to minimize wall and ceiling openings. In many cases, we can route new piping through closets, utility spaces, and unfinished areas to reduce disruption to finished spaces. While some drywall openings are usually necessary, we coordinate with trusted restoration contractors to ensure proper repair. Throughout the process, we maintain water service to at least one bathroom and the kitchen whenever possible, minimizing lifestyle disruption during the replacement.
Service Areas
British Columbia
Book Your Poly B Assessment Today
Don’t risk costly water damage or insurance problems. Our expert technicians are ready to evaluate your plumbing
system and provide a comprehensive replacement plan.
system and provide a comprehensive replacement plan.