Polybutylene (PB) is a flexible, plastic piping material used in plumbing systems from the 1970s to the 1990s. It was commonly used for water supply lines due to its low cost, easy installation, and resistance to corrosion. However, PB was found to be prone to failure under certain conditions, such as exposure to chlorine in the water, which caused the pipes to become brittle and leak over time. As a result, PB is no longer used in new installations and is often replaced with PEX, copper, or other more reliable materials during plumbing upgrades or repairs. Identifying and replacing PB pipes is crucial to prevent leaks and water damage in older plumbing systems.
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