Poly-B Repiping
Is Your Home Still Running on Poly-B Pipe?
Poly-B piping was widely installed in BC homes through the 1980s and 1990s, but it breaks down over time and has become a serious liability for homeowners. Insurance companies across British Columbia are increasingly refusing to cover or renew policies on homes that still have Poly-B in the walls. If you're trying to sell your home or maintain your coverage in Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Parksville, or anywhere along Central Vancouver Island, a full repipe is often not optional. It's required. Horizon Mechanical specializes in Poly-B replacement, working efficiently to minimize disruption to your home while bringing your plumbing up to a standard that satisfies insurers and protects your investment for years to come. Our pipe repair and replacement services are fully licensed under TSBC Gas Contractor #LIC00214303, and our work is documented to pass municipal and engineering inspections.
Material Options
Copper Pipe Installation and PEX Pipe Services: Which Is Right for You?
When replacing old or failing pipe, the material you choose matters. Horizon Mechanical installs both copper and PEX piping, and we'll walk you through the differences so you can make a confident decision for your property. Copper pipe installation remains a trusted choice for its durability and long service life, and it's often preferred in commercial settings or where a rigid, long-lasting solution is the priority. PEX pipe services offer a flexible, cost-effective alternative that performs well in residential applications, handles temperature swings effectively, and is less prone to corrosion over time. Both options are installed to the same high standard, using quality materials and proper fittings that hold up under real-world conditions. Whether you're repiping a single-family home in Nanaimo or completing a tenant improvement project in Parksville or Chemainus, we'll recommend the right solution based on your building, your budget, and your long-term goals.
Water Main Services
Water Main Repair and Replacement Across Central Vancouver Island
A failing water main is one of the most disruptive plumbing problems a property owner can face. Whether you're seeing reduced water pressure, unexplained wet spots in your yard, or a complete loss of supply, Horizon Mechanical has the tools and experience to diagnose and resolve the issue fast. We handle water main repair and full replacement for residential and commercial properties throughout the Nanaimo area, including Nanoose Bay, Qualicum Beach, and Ladysmith. Our technicians arrive prepared with fully stocked trucks, so work can begin without unnecessary delays. Every repair is completed to meet City of Nanaimo standards and provincial code requirements, giving you confidence that the fix will last. Honest, upfront pricing means no surprise charges once the work begins.
Pipe Inspection and Frozen Pipe Repair
Pipe Inspection, Cleaning, and Frozen Pipe Repair Done Right
Not every pipe problem is visible until it becomes a major issue. Routine pipe inspection and cleaning helps catch small leaks, buildup, and early signs of corrosion before they turn into costly repairs. Horizon Mechanical provides thorough inspections for homeowners and property managers across Central Vancouver Island who want to stay ahead of plumbing failures rather than react to them. We also handle frozen pipe repair for properties throughout the region. When temperatures drop and pipes freeze, the risk of a burst line and significant water damage is real. Our team responds quickly to thaw, assess, and repair affected sections, and we can advise on protective measures to reduce the risk of it happening again. Whether you need a pre-sale inspection in Nanaimo or emergency frozen pipe repair in Qualicum Beach, Horizon Mechanical is available around the clock to help.
REVIEWS
Trusted by Homeowners and Contractors Across Central Vancouver Island
Common Questions
Pipe Services FAQ
Why do insurance companies have a problem with Poly-B piping in BC homes?
Poly-B plastic piping was installed in many BC homes between the late 1970s and mid-1990s. Over time, exposure to chlorine in municipal water causes the material to degrade from the inside out, leading to cracks, leaks, and eventual failure. Because of this known failure rate, many insurance providers in British Columbia now refuse to issue or renew home insurance policies on properties that still have Poly-B in place. Some insurers will cover the home but exclude any water damage related to the piping. If you're planning to sell your home or renew your policy, replacing the Poly-B before it becomes a problem is often the most cost-effective path forward.What is the difference between copper and PEX piping for a home repipe?
Copper has been a standard in residential and commercial plumbing for decades. It's rigid, durable, and has a long service life, making it a solid choice where longevity and a proven track record are the priority. PEX is a flexible plastic piping that has grown in popularity for residential repiping because it's easier to route through walls, resists corrosion, and handles temperature changes well. It also tends to come at a lower material cost than copper. The right choice depends on your property type, local conditions, and how long you plan to hold the property. Horizon Mechanical installs both and will give you a straightforward recommendation based on your specific situation.How do I know if my home needs a full repipe or just a targeted repair?
The answer depends on the age and material of your existing plumbing, the number and location of problem areas, and whether your pipe material is known to fail systemically. A single isolated leak in an otherwise sound copper system may only require a localized repair. However, if your home has Poly-B piping, leaky copper pipes in multiple locations, or old shut-off valves that no longer work properly, a full repipe is often more cost-effective over the long term than repeated spot fixes. Horizon Mechanical will assess your system honestly and give you a clear picture of your options before any work begins.Does Horizon Mechanical handle water main work in areas outside Nanaimo?
Yes. Horizon Mechanical serves a roughly 40km radius from Nanaimo, covering communities including Chemainus, Ladysmith, Nanoose Bay, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach. Water main repair and replacement is available throughout this service area for both residential and commercial properties. All work is completed to provincial code and City of Nanaimo standards where applicable, and our technicians arrive with fully stocked trucks to keep the job moving without unnecessary delays.What should I do if I suspect a frozen pipe in my home?
If you turn on a tap and get little or no water during cold weather, a frozen pipe is a likely cause. The first step is to turn off your main water supply to reduce the risk of a burst if the pipe thaws on its own. Avoid using open flames or high-heat tools to thaw the pipe yourself, as this can damage the pipe or create a fire hazard. Contact Horizon Mechanical for professional frozen pipe repair. Our team can safely thaw the affected section, inspect for any damage that may have already occurred, and make repairs to restore full water flow. We're available 24/7 for situations like this across Central Vancouver Island.Is Horizon Mechanical licensed to perform pipe work in Nanaimo and surrounding municipalities?
Yes. Horizon Mechanical is a fully licensed and insured plumbing and gas fitting contractor operating under TSBC Gas Contractor license #LIC00214303. Our technicians are background-checked and trained to meet the requirements of City of Nanaimo inspections as well as broader provincial engineering standards. We serve the full Central Vancouver Island region, and our work is documented to pass municipal inspections, which is particularly important for general contractors and property owners who need sign-off on their projects.
