Polybutylene Pipes in Idaho Homes: What Buyers Should Know

Buying a home in Southeast Idaho is an exciting step, but it also requires careful inspection. One issue that catches many buyers off guard is the presence of polybutylene piping, a type of plumbing once popular for its affordability but now known for its potential to fail. If you're house hunting in places like Idaho Falls, Pocatello, or Rexburg, understanding the risks associated with polybutylene pipes can help you make a more informed buying decision.

What Are Polybutylene Pipes?

Polybutylene pipes are plastic water supply piping used extensively in residential construction from the late 1970s through the mid-1990s. Recognizable by their flexible, typically gray, blue, or black appearance, these pipes were widely installed due to their low cost and ease of installation. Unfortunately, over time, they’ve been found to degrade and fail, often without warning.

Why Were They Popular?

Homebuilders in Southeast Idaho and across the country favored polybutylene for several reasons:

• Lower material costs compared to copper

• Quick installation process

• Resistance to freezing (in theory)

  
  

However, as homes aged, issues began to surface, leading to class action lawsuits and a shift away from the material by the mid-1990s.

Why Polybutylene Pipes Are a Concern

The biggest issue with polybutylene pipes is their tendency to become brittle and fail over time. Chlorine and other oxidants in municipal water systems can cause the material to deteriorate from the inside out, resulting in sudden leaks or even catastrophic water damage.

Signs of Polybutylene Piping

If you’re considering a home purchase, you might be able to identify these pipes by:

• Gray plastic piping, often marked with "PB" followed by a series of numbers (e.g., PB2110)

• Piping entering the water heater, under sinks, or near shut-off valves

• Crimped or clamped connections, usually made of metal or plastic

  
  

However, since piping can be hidden behind walls, a professional home inspection is crucial to uncover any issues.

Are Polybutylene Pipes Still Found in Idaho Homes?

Yes. Many homes built in Southeast Idaho between 1978 and 1995 still contain polybutylene piping. While some have been updated or partially replaced, others remain untouched. Homebuyers should be especially cautious when considering homes built in this era.

Common Areas in Southeast Idaho with Polybutylene

• Idaho Falls subdivisions built in the early 1980s

• Older homes in Pocatello’s residential areas

• Rental properties and starter homes constructed before 1996

  
  

What Should Homebuyers Do?

If you're buying a home in Southeast Idaho, request a professional home inspection from a certified inspector familiar with polybutylene issues. At Vantage Point Inspections, we thoroughly examine plumbing systems and alert you to potential problems before you close the deal.

Consider These Steps:

✅ Have the pipes inspected by a professional

✅ Request a plumbing specialist's quote for replacement costs

✅ Negotiate repairs or credits with the seller

✅ Evaluate homeowners' insurance—some providers won’t cover damages related to polybutylene

Replacing Polybutylene Pipes: What to Expect

Full replacement is typically the safest option. Most plumbers in Idaho recommend replacing polybutylene with PEX or copper piping. Costs can range from $2,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of the home and accessibility of the plumbing.

While this may seem expensive, it can prevent future water damage and make your home easier to insure and resell.

---

Trust Vantage Point Inspections for Peace of Mind

Before purchasing a home in Southeast Idaho, make sure you know exactly what you’re buying. Contact Vantage Point Inspections today for a thorough, detail-oriented inspection that identifies hidden plumbing issues like polybutylene piping.

We proudly serve Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Rexburg, Blackfoot, and surrounding communities—helping buyers make informed, confident decisions.

Schedule Your Inspection Today!