STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE POLY-B WATER LINE CHANGE-OUT

Is your home still equipped with outdated Poly-B piping? Magic Mechanical offers professional
Poly-B pipe replacement services in Calgary to keep your plumbing system safe and up to code.
Polybutylene (Poly-B) piping was commonly used in homes from the 1970s to the 1990s, but it’s
now known to degrade and fail over time – leading to leaks and potential water damage. We
specialize in clean, fast, and fully compliant change-outs that protect your home and investment.

1. Purpose

To safely remove existing Polybutylene (Poly-B) water distribution piping and replace it with approved potable water piping (PEX or Copper), ensuring code compliance, system integrity, and minimal disruption to the property.

2. Scope

  • Single-family homes
  • Townhomes and duplexes
  • Basement, crawlspace, slab-on-grade, and multi-level structures

3. References & Standards

  • National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPC)
  • Provincial plumbing code (AHJ applicable)
  • Manufacturer installation guidelines (PEX / Copper)
  • CSA potable water standards

4. Required Tools & Materials

Tools

  • Pipe cutters (PEX / Copper)
  • Crimp or expansion tool
  • Torch and soldering equipment (if copper)
  • Drill, spade bits, hole saws
  • Pressure test pump or gauge

Materials

  • Approved PEX or Copper piping
  • Certified fittings and valves
  • Fixture isolation valves
  • Fire-rated sealant
  • Insulation (as required)

5. Safety Requirements

  • Shut off main water supply before work
  • Lock-out / tag-out main valve where applicable
  • Wear PPE: safety glasses, gloves, respirator
  • Fire watch required when soldering
  • Protect finished surfaces and contents

6. Pre-Work Inspection & Setup

  • Confirm presence and extent of Poly-B
  • Identify water entry and fixture locations
  • Photograph existing conditions
  • Review access points
  • Confirm replacement material
  • Lay protective coverings

7. Isolation & Drain Down

  • Shut off main water supply
  • Open lowest fixture to drain system
  • Relieve pressure at hot and cold fixtures
  • Verify system is fully depressurized

8. Removal of Poly-B Piping

  • Disconnect at main, manifold, and fixtures
  • Remove accessible Poly-B lines
  • Cap or temporarily seal open lines
  • Dispose of material per local regulations
Note: Slab-embedded Poly-B may be abandoned in place where permitted by code and AHJ approval.

9. Installation of New Piping

Routing

  • Follow original pipe paths where possible
  • Maintain clearance from electrical and heat sources
  • Avoid sharp bends and kinks

Installation

  • Install new main distribution lines
  • Run hot and cold lines to each fixture
  • Install new shut-off valves
  • Secure piping with approved supports
  • Fire-stop all penetrations

10. Pressure Testing

  • Cap all fixture outlets
  • Pressurize with water or air per code
  • Hold pressure for required duration
  • Inspect all joints and connections
  • Repair leaks and retest

11. System Commissioning

  • Slowly restore water supply
  • Flush system thoroughly
  • Bleed air from fixtures
  • Verify operation, pressure, and leaks

12. Restoration & Cleanup

  • Patch access holes if included
  • Remove debris and materials
  • Clean work areas
  • Remove protective coverings

13. Documentation & Handover

  • Provide description of work completed
  • Provide material and warranty information
  • Identify shut-off valve locations
  • Photograph completed installation
  • Obtain homeowner sign-off if required

14. Notes & Limitations

  • Drywall repair and painting not included unless specified
  • Additional work may be required if hidden issues are discovered
  • Slab-embedded Poly-B replacement may require separate scope and pricing

The Magic

Our Poly-B Replacement Services

Full Poly-B pipe inspections

Fast turnaround with minimal disruption

Detailed estimates and transparent pricing

Wall and ceiling patching post-replacement

Code-compliant Poly-B replacements using PEX or other approved materials

The Magic

Why Choose Magic Mechanical?

  • Trusted plumbing professionals serving Calgary and surrounding areas
  • Fully licensed and insured
  • Experienced in residential and commercial Poly-B change-outs
  • Friendly, transparent service with upfront pricing
  • Quick turnaround and high-quality workmanship
TheMagic – Trusted Plumbing Services in Calgary

Don't wait for a leak to cause major damage.

Book your Poly-B replacement today with Magic Mechanical. Call us today at 1 (403) 910-5517 or book online for fast, friendly service you can trust.