With the recent news story on KOB Channel 4 about faulty plumbing we wanted to provide you with some information, and how to identify if you have faulty plumbing from Kitec or Polybutylene piping. We compiled the following questions and answers for homeowners.
What do I do if I’m concerned about my plumbing?
Contact a professional, licensed plumber to come out and assess the severity of your situation.
Where do I look in my home to determine if I have Kitec or Polybutylene plumbing?
Check the pipes under sinks or in a mechanical room if you have one.
What type of plumbing is this used for in my home?
These types of plumbing were used for domestic hot and cold water lines and for in-floor radiant heat.
What does it look like?
Kitec Hot water and radiant heat lines will be orange/red piping and cold lines will be blue. Sometimes the pipes will even have Kitec printed on the pipes.
What about Polybutylene Plumbing?
If you have Polybutylene pipes will be gray like those below.
How much does it cost to replace faulty plumbing?
Depending on the size and layout of your home it can be upwards of $10,000+
How do you install the new plumbing?
New lines will be run in wall spaces, attics, basements or crawl spaces. Installation starts from the city water meter and extends to each existing plumbing fixture.
What other costs are associated with this type of project?
Depending on the accessibility to the plumbing there may be a variety of home repairs required, including any of the following:
- Wall repairs
- Drywall repairs
- Painting
- Tile or marble repairs in kitchens or bathrooms
If you’re concerned about faulty plumbing in your home it is best to contact a professional plumber to come out and evaluate your plumbing situation.