Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jun 28, 2000 02:19pm | #1

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   David - SDR 11 refers to the ratio of pipe diameter to wall thickness, in this case the diameter is 11 times the wall thickness. ASTM D-3309 is the performance standard (passes ASTM test). Neither of these tell you the type of pipe, but the grey plastic for potable water, especially combined with crimp fittings (check) would tend to indicate polybutylene tubing.

   Click here for some of the possible legal remedies and related information, as well as a photograph of the pipe. Hope this helps.

   Jeff

1. 
   Guest_ | Jun 28, 2000 04:29pm | #2

   *As Jeff had indicated, there was a class action suit against PPP piping. There are some constraints, but they will pretty much replace it for nothing. The problem is the fittings/crimps failing. Some installations use copper connectors, others use plastic.My house was built around 1985, and is full of this stuff, My neighbors is also plumbed with it. Neither house has ever had issue.Let me know if your looking for more info.I wouldn't be too scared of this stuff.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jun 28, 2000 04:51pm | #4

   *My understanding is that the polybutylene tubing with plastic fittings and crimp bands are the ones which have caused the problems, and that systems with metal fittings (typically copper, at least in my area) don't have the same problems.The link Jeff provided seems to confirm this.Bob

2. 
   David_Archer | Jun 28, 2000 04:51pm | #3

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   I am buying a used home, and during my initial inspection of one home in particular, I noted grey plastic water supply pipes with markings "SDR 11 ASTM D-3309". Any danger here (is this the infamous pvc type that explodes behind walls after about 10 years)?

   The house is a large two story home with a fully finished basement (the plumbing is behind alot of sheetrock), so any leak will be costly. The home was built in 1987.

   How should this affect my offer for the home?