We're piping up about the best types of PVC
PVC piping has multiple uses in residential properties. It’s worth considering if you want to avoid the need to solder copper pipes, worry about corrosion, or deal with high costs. While most PVC options share the same properties, each has some standout benefits that can make it the right choice for different types of applications. Here's a look at four types of PVC pipes to consider when adding or replacing piping in your home.
If you observe a leak in your home, do not procrastinate getting it fixed. This can help prevent future plumbing emergencies and water damage to your home while saving a significant amount of money in wasted water.
The U in PVC-U stands for unplasticized. Also known as rigid PVC, PVC-U is a superstar when it comes to residential and commercial draining applications. In fact, it's considered suitable for pipes and fittings used with sewage, drinking water, soil, and general drainage.
PVC-U is highly regarded by homeowners for being affordable and easy to handle. PVC-U also impresses with its longevity. This material is highly resistant to UV exposure and chemicals and can last for 100 years. If you need another reason to be impressed by PVC-U, you should know that this material is an eco-friendly choice that's 100% recyclable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Not as temperature-resistant as other types |
| Long-lasting | Less ductile |
| 100% recyclable | Less crack-resistant |
Best for: Residential and commercial draining applications
The C in C-PVC stands for chlorinated. This is an important detail because one notable advantage that C-PVC has over PVC-U is that its elevated chlorine content makes this material capable of withstanding a much wider range of temperatures. C-PVC is considered safe for drinking water, making it one of the most popular PVC types. Its corrosion-resistant properties add to its durability. You should strongly consider C-PVC for water piping if you're looking for an option that's able to be stretched and shaped without breaking. C-PVC is also 100% recyclable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Withstands a wide temperature range | Not as well suited to pressure |
| Corrosion-resistant | Not as stable and durable |
| Ductile | May degrade with prolonged sun exposure |
Best for: Applications that require the pipe to be stretched or shaped
PVC-O is formally known as molecularly oriented PVC. This fancy name comes from the fact that a special process is used to turn unplasticized PVC (PVC-U) into a layered substance. O-PVC is a top choice for buried non-potable yard applications related to everything from sewer mains to irrigation systems. It's also commonly used for systems involving drinking water.
O-PVC ranks high for its corrosion resistance. It's also one of the best choices for preserving water quality. From the homeowner angle, this material offers a cost-effective piping option that delivers a great balance of stiffness and flexibility in various applications. This is also a rugged material that's known for its impact resistance, fatigue resistance, and hydraulic capacity. Like C-PVC, O-PVC has a high level of "ductility" that allows it to be stretched and shaped without breaking. Lastly, O-PVC is 100% recyclable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Corrosion-resistant | Not suitable for gases |
| Resistant to high-pressure water flowc | |
| Highly durable |
Best for: Buried non-potable yard applications
When you say hello to PVC-HI, you're looking at a substance that falls within the modified PVC category. Also known as high-impact PVC, PVC-HI is created using an impact modifier that's added to PVC-U to increase a pipe's resistance to external pressure. This type of PVC is rugged enough to handle piping systems that carry or contain gaseous fuels.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Resistant to external pressure | Must comply with strict regulations and standards |
| Can transport natural gas and hydrogen | |
| Highly impact resistant |
Best for: Pipes that will carry or contain gaseous fuels
PVC has risen in popularity in modern plumbing. If you have new construction, you’ll almost always find it underneath your kitchen or bathroom sink. PVC beautifully balances cost and durability and works in a wide range of applications. Here are some of the benefits:
Though the cost of PVC pipes has risen in recent years, they’re still one of the most affordable types of piping. You can expect to spend anywhere between $0.50 and $5 per linear foot for the materials. In comparison, polypropylene pipes (PP) are twice as expensive, and copper pipes are three times more expensive.
PVC pipes are extremely durable and can last around 100 years with proper maintenance. They’re resistant to corrosion, impact, and root intrusions (when a tree root grows into a pipe).
For added durability, you can glue PVC pipes together and create a water-tight seal that can only be broken by sawing the pipe.
PVC is one of the most widely used types of plastic, and its environmental impact has been hotly debated. This product is 100% recyclable, requires less energy to manufacture than concrete or iron piping, and lasts about 100 years. That said, there are growing concerns related to microplastics and vinyl chloride, which we go into more below.
Some people still consider PEX or PP piping to have a lower environmental impact. The National Association of Home Builders cites PEX as one of the most sustainable types of pipes, while the Environmental Working Group (EWG) says PP piping is less likely than PVC to leach chemicals into drinking water.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) categorizes vinyl chloride as a known human carcinogen. On the other hand, there isn’t yet a clear consensus on the impact of microplastics. Some studies (outlined by the EPA) link microplastics to immune, reproductive, developmental, and neurological disorders.
That said, certain PVC pipes are rated for drinking water and meet current health and safety limits. but there are concerns about microplastics leaching into drinking water. C-PVC is the most popular form of PVC for drinking water pipes. In particular, C-PVC is more resistant to biofilm (which can pose a health risk). According to AP News, the EPA is currently reviewing the safety of vinyl chloride, one of the main chemicals used to make PVC.
Nonetheless, C-PVC piping can play an important role in fire safety. This type of PVC pipe is often used in fire sprinkler systems because it’s more fire-resistant than other forms.
If you've determined that PVC is the way to go after comparing copper pipes versus PVC, the next step is to work with a plumber on design and installation. A plumber can handle everything from faucet repair to irrigation. A plumbing repair pro can also answer questions about the best pipe insulation to prevent freezing if you're looking into piping solutions due to temperature concerns.
