Learning Center
Welcome to our Learning Center, where you'll find standard information about
homes for educational purposes only.
Knob and Tube Wiring
Knob and Tube (K&T) wiring was commonly installed in homes built between the early 1900s and 1940s. While it served its purpose at the time, this outdated electrical system lacks the safety features of modern wiring and is no longer used in today’s construction practices.
Many insurance providers see K&T wiring as a higher risk, which can affect your ability to secure or renew coverage. Some insurers may even require the replacement of this wiring before offering a policy.
If your home still has K&T wiring, it’s essential to consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) for a detailed assessment of your electrical system.
Unlike a standard home inspection, this specialized evaluation focuses exclusively on the condition and safety of your wiring. An LEC can check for deterioration or damage and may recommend replacing the system to enhance safety and reduce risk.
Knob and Tube wiring can be safe if properly maintained and inspected by a Licensed Electrical Contractor. Although the latest Ontario Electrical Safety Code (28th Edition, 2021) no longer includes installation guidelines for K&T wiring, the code is not retroactive.
Learn more visit ESA
Kitec Plumbing
Kitec plumbing, introduced in Canada in 1995, was widely used in homes and buildings until 2007. Unfortunately, this type of plumbing is prone to corrosion and bursting, which can lead to water damage and expensive repairs.
Key Facts About Kitec:
Found in buildings constructed between 1995 and 2007.
Prone to degradation, especially in areas with high water pressure or hot water usage.
Typically bright orange (hot water) or blue (cold water).
How to Identify Kitec:
Labeling: Look for “Kitec” on the pipes.
Brand Names: It may also be marked with names like AmbioComfort, AQUA, KERR Controls, IPEX, PlumbBetter, and others.
Stamps: Look for CSA B137.9/10 or ASTM F1974.
If you suspect your home has Kitec plumbing, consider consulting a professional to assess its condition and discuss replacement options. Proactive action can help avoid potential issues in the future.
Learn more visit Kitec
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Galvanized Steel Plumbing
What is galvanized steel plumbing (piping)?
Galvanized steel plumbing pipes are pipes made of steel and coated with zinc to prevent rusting. These pipes and fittings were commonly installed in homes prior to 1950 (some sites say it was used until the 1960s). Over time, the galvanized steel pipes begin to rust or corrode from the inside out, resulting in reduced water pressure and restricted water flow. This presents an increased risk of leaks or ruptures occurring in the pipes and the potential for flood damage. Corrosion also occurs to steel when it is connected directly to copper or brass.
What is the life expectancy?
Galvanized steel pipes have an average life expectancy of 40 to 50 years. Since these have not been installed since, at the very latest, the 1960’s, these would all have passed their expected lifespan. If your supply lines are made of galvanized steel, there is constant water pressure pushing the water towards the faucets, placing pressure on the corroded pipes. If your waste lines are made of galvanized steel, there is less pressure on them, as the waste liquid is just flowing out of the home, and the lifespan may be a bit longer.
What will your home insurance company want to know?
Insurance companies will want to know exactly what type of plumbing you have in your home. If you’re not sure, there is an easy way to check. Find where the piping enters your home and then scratch it. If the piping is:
If you have galvanized steel plumbing, your insurance company may require you to have it replaced with copper or plastic piping before providing coverage.
Vermiculite Insulation
Not all vermiculite poses a health concern. Vermiculite itself has not been shown to cause health problems, and asbestos-free vermiculite is not regulated under WHMIS 2015 by most suppliers. However, some vermiculite insulation products, like Zonolite® Attic Insulation, were contaminated with asbestos due to their origin from the Libby Mine in Montana, USA, which had natural asbestos deposits. The mine closed in 1990, and vermiculite from other sources did not have this issue. If your home has pre-1990 vermiculite insulation, it’s important to have it checked for asbestos before doing renovations or disturbing it. Undisturbed insulation behind intact walls or in attic spaces usually isn’t a problem.
Asbestos-containing vermiculite can release harmful fibres when disturbed, which, if inhaled, can cause health problems, including cancer. To stay safe, have the insulation tested by qualified professionals who can send samples to accredited laboratories before starting any work. Further information can be found on the Health Canada website.
Learn more here Health Canada
Sump Pump (Winter)
Winter Tip: Prevent Sump Pump Failures During Heavy Rains
During the winter, after heavy rains, ensure your sump pump discharge hose is free of ice. Clogged discharge lines are a common issue in colder months, causing the pump to run continuously without properly removing water from the sump pit. A continuously running sump pump is at risk of burning out, potentially leading to a flooded basement—or worse, an overheated pump.
Polybutylene (Poly-B)
What is Polybutylene (Poly B)
It is a grey plastic pipe, identifiable in Canada by the CSA Standard "B137.8" or material designation "PB2110."
While the material itself is not inherently defective, leaks have commonly resulted from improper installation rather than pipe failure.
In Canada, issues were addressed by replacing plastic fittings with copper or brass fittings and using copper crimp rings, which significantly reduced failures. Although Poly-B with copper fittings is generally not a major concern for insurance, homeowners should consult their insurer before purchasing a home with this type of piping.
Beware of Blocked Furnace Pipes During a Snowstorm
During a storm, snow can build up around the pipes, potentially leading to safety hazards and operational issues. That’s why we always recommend homeowners take a few minutes to check that the pipes stay clear.
Signs Your Bathtub Needs Some Caulk
Not sure when your bathtub was last caulked? If it’s been over a year—or if the caulking looks like a receding hairline—it’s due.
Maintaining proper caulking in your bathtub and shower is essential to prevent water from seeping into cracks and crevices, which can lead to mold, mildew, and even structural damage over time. Fresh caulking helps maintain a watertight seal, protecting walls and floors from costly water damage while also keeping your bathroom looking clean and well-maintained. Regularly checking and replacing caulk ensures your tub and shower stay in top condition for years to come.