Polybutylene pipes are prone to developing cracks and leaks due to:

• Chlorine Degradation: The chlorine present in municipal water supplies can degrade the pipe material over time, leading to brittleness and eventual failure.
• Mechanical Stress: Normal household activities like water hammer, ground shifting, or even the installation of additional fixtures can stress the pipes, causing them to rupture.

Millions of homes have experienced pipe failures due to Quest piping. These failures can range from minor leaks to catastrophic flooding, which not only causes structural damage but can also lead to mold growth, health hazards, and significant repair costs.

Home insurance companies might charge higher premiums or even deny coverage for homes with polybutylene pipes. Moreover, having Quest piping can deter potential buyers, lowering the property's value or making it harder to sell.

In response to the widespread issues, class action lawsuits were settled in the 1990s, providing some compensation for replacement costs. However, not all affected homeowners were reached by these settlements, and many still face the burden of replacement costs.

Leaks from Quest pipes can lead to mold growth, which poses health risks, especially to individuals with allergies or respiratory issues. The presence of mold can also exacerbate asthma and other conditions.

While replacing the piping system is an upfront cost, it's often more economical in the long run. The cost of repeated repairs to leaky or burst pipes, coupled with potential water damage, can exceed the cost of a one-time replacement with more durable materials like copper or PEX.