Many home remodels used PB (Plolybutylene) water supply lines
- widely used before 1996. Since then, PEX (Crossed-Linked Polyethylene) is
more common.
The old PB pipe has a tendency to deteriorate from the
inside out due to chlorines added to water systems. However, being on well for
a water supply eliminates this specific issue.
Other problems with the old PB pipe relate to the clamps
used at the joints. Tools used to install clamps can over tighten and cause
stress cracks on the pipe, or on the actual clamp, resulting in leaks. Most
leaks are located at joints due to poor installation or faulty connection clamps.
Be aware that if your home is plumbed with these PB-types of
water supply lines, they may need to be replaced.