There may be some confusion as to whether or not it is polybutylene or PEX. PEX is the plastic piping that came about to replace the polybutylene. As a general rule you can assume that it is PEX if it any color but gray if it was installed after 1998 and polybutylene if it was installed before 1993.
Is all GREY pipe polybutylene?
Polybutylene pipes are: usually stamped with the code “PB2110”; ... not used for waste, drain or vent piping; most commonly grey in color, but they can also be white, silver, black or blue.
What color does PEX pipe come in?
PEX comes in red and blue colors to help you keep track of the hot and cold lines. You can use white PEX for everything if you prefer.Sep 14, 2021
How bad is polybutylene piping?
They were inexpensive and easy to install--but homeowners and plumbing professionals have discovered one serious flaw: Over time, oxidation and exposure to chlorine in the water supply causes the pipes to swell and crack, leading to widespread flood damage throughout the home, usually without any warning.
What is the gray PVC called?
There are two common types of PVC pipe – schedule 40 PVC and schedule 80 PVC. Schedule 40 PVC is usually white in color and schedule 80 is usually a dark gray (they can also be found in other colors). Their most important difference, though, is in their design. Schedule 80 pipe is designed with a thicker wall.Jun 14, 2013
Is polybutylene the same as PEX?
There are two common types of plastic piping which are known as PB (Polybutylene) and PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene). The main difference between PB and PEX is in how the material is created. ... So if you will be pumping water, or the pipes will be exposed to the cold, PEX is a better option than PB.Apr 8, 2015
How can you tell if a pipe is polybutylene?
- usually stamped with the code “PB2110”;
- flexible and sometimes curved, unlike rigid piping materials such as copper;
- not used for waste, drain or vent piping;
- most commonly grey in color, but they can also be white, silver, black or blue. ...
- ½” to 1” in diameter.
What color PEX should I use?
Red PEX pipe carries hot water. Blue PEX pipe carries cold water. White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water. Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).Feb 10, 2021