Poly-B Pipe Replacement in Canmore, Banff & the Bow Valley
Alberta insurance companies are refusing to cover homes with Polybutylene (Poly-B) piping. If your insurer has flagged it — or your renewal is coming up — Cool Runnings Plumbing replaces Poly-B with modern PEX or copper throughout Canmore, Banff, Cochrane, and the surrounding area.
- Your home was built between 1975–1995
- Your insurer has flagged Poly-B on your policy
- You're buying or selling a home in the Bow Valley
- You've noticed discoloured water or reduced pressure
- Your policy renewal is coming up and you need to act
Call Cleon for a free Poly-B assessment
(403) 675-8381Polybutylene Piping — Why It's a Problem in the Bow Valley
Polybutylene (Poly-B) is a grey, flexible plastic pipe used extensively in Canadian homes built between the mid-1970s and mid-1990s. It was cheap, easy to install, and widely used — which is why so many homes across Canmore, Banff, and Cochrane still have it today.
The problem is that Poly-B degrades over time. The fittings — typically plastic or aluminium — are particularly prone to cracking and failure. When they fail, the result is often a significant leak inside your walls or under your floors. Homeowners across the Bow Valley have dealt with serious water damage as a result.
More urgently: Alberta insurance companies are increasingly refusing to renew home insurance policies on properties with Poly-B piping. Some insurers are giving homeowners a limited window — often 30–60 days — to replace the pipe or face cancellation. If you're buying or selling a home in Canmore, Banff, or Cochrane, Poly-B will almost certainly come up in the home inspection.
Signs your home may have Poly-B — or that it's failing
Built between 1975 and 1995Poly-B was the standard in Canadian residential construction during this era.
Grey flexible plastic pipe visible in utility areasLook under sinks, near the water heater, or in your mechanical room.
Reduced water pressure or discoloured waterCan indicate pipe degradation or fitting failure.
Insurance company has flagged it on your policyA direct sign that replacement is needed to maintain coverage.
Damp walls, ceiling stains, or unexplained mouldMay indicate a slow Poly-B leak already in progress.
Home inspection report mentions Poly-BCommon in Bow Valley property transactions — often a condition of sale.
Cool Runnings' Poly-B Replacement Process
Full pipe replacement sounds daunting — but Cleon makes it straightforward. Here's exactly what to expect.
Free Home Assessment
Cleon visits your home, identifies all Poly-B piping, assesses the scope of replacement needed, and gives you a clear, upfront quote. No obligation, no surprise costs later.
Permit & Scheduling
All pipe replacement work is fully permitted through the relevant municipality. Cleon handles the paperwork and schedules the work at a time that works for you.
Full Poly-B Removal
All Poly-B piping and fittings are removed and replaced with modern PEX or copper piping — both durable options that insurance companies accept and building codes require. Cleon will advise which material best suits your home.
Inspection & Sign-Off
The completed work is inspected by the municipality and signed off. You receive documentation confirming the Poly-B has been replaced — ready to provide to your insurer.
Back to Your Insurer
With the inspection certificate in hand, you can contact your insurance company to confirm the replacement and maintain or reinstate your coverage.
Poly-B Replacement Across the Bow Valley
Poly-B Replacement FAQ
Everything Bow Valley homeowners are asking about Poly-B piping and what to do about it.
What is Poly-B piping?
How do I know if my home has Poly-B?
Will my insurance be cancelled if I have Poly-B?
How long does Poly-B replacement take?
What does Poly-B get replaced with?
How much does Poly-B replacement cost in Canmore or Banff?
Don't wait until your insurer forces your hand.
Get ahead of it. Call Cleon for a free Poly-B assessment across Canmore, Banff, Cochrane, and the Bow Valley.