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PVC Pipe Life Expectancy
PVC is the 3rd most broadly created, strong (but brittle) and weightless plastic. For residential intents or industrial buildings, various kinds of plumbing pipes are to occur. But plastic pipes play a leading role in plumbing. Everyone wants to choose leak-free, long-lasting pipes which will not create any difficulties in the future.
One of the most common misconceptions is ''plastic pipes are infirm''. But in reality, PVC lasts about 50 to 100 years. Of course, it depends on various factors and conditions. So, PVC is a fantastic option when choosing plumbing material. Although the durability and lifespan of the PVC pipes are dependent on environmental factors, there are still some things you can do to improve the overall life span of PVC pipes.
How Long Is The Lifespan Of PVC Pipes?
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) -CH2CHC1- is a synthetic plastic polymer that is a type of thermoplastic. PVC is a long-lasting, resistant, and tough material when compared to other plastics. PVC pipe is highly durable, corrosion-resistant, affordable, easy to install, and it can integrate with a copper system.
Moreover, using PVC pipes is more reliable than other types of piping. The estimated life expectancies of PVC pipes are about 50 to 100 years. Natural PVC lifespan depends on specific aspects, uses, or conditions. Here we discuss some factors which reduce the lifespan of PVC pipes:
Improper Installation
One of the primary reasons for the failure of any kind of piping system is improper installation. If you use excessive cement for fitting the pipe, it becomes unbalanced and causes leakage. When the PVC pipes are installed without proper planning, it may cause problems related to improper installation.
Installation problems mostly appear when the PVC cement is used in too much quantity or too little quantity. Too much PVC cement makes the pipes breakable. While on the flip side, too little cement could weaken the bonds between the joints of the adjacent pipes.
One of the most common problems related to PVC pipes' improper installation is ''short insertion''. In short insertion, a worker cannot push a pipe into the fitting. So make sure your installation will be nailed properly and is balanced.
Extreme Sunlight Exposure
Excessive sunlight plays an influential role in making a PVC pipe friable, altering its colour, and damaging the outer layer structure. So, it's compulsory to either sheathe the pipe or paint the pipe for protection from external damages. Sunlight is one of the most harmful things that could affect PVC pipes.
Those PVC pipes that are more often exposed to direct sunlight would break down faster than those that aren't. The process behind this breakdown is ultraviolet rays from the sunlight, which directly affect the durability of the piping material and make them brittle and easy prey for breakage.
The latex-based paint coat and light-coloured paint support your pipes' security and facilitate proper functioning. Surprisingly, there are several ways you can protect your PVC pipe that is directly exposed to direct sunlight. Paint the PVC pipe or cover the exposed pipes with a proper covering.
Often PVC pipe manufacturers recommend covering the exposed PVC pipes with light-coloured latex bands. This will keep your PVC from discoloration and keep the exposed pipes durable and strong. It is also strongly recommended to buy pipes from the suppliers that store the PVC pipe in a warehouse rather than in exposed sunlight.
Underground Piping
Direct sunlight would not be a problem for the PVC pipes installed underground. However, they are exposed to hazards by soil movements, soil humidity, extreme temperatures, and debris. Of the above, extreme temperature effects are the most common. PVC pipes are at high risk when in extreme temperatures.
However, to mitigate those problematic causes, there are a few ways. Move any debris and other related material away from the PVC pipelines. Also, to protect them from extreme temperatures, make sure to install pipes 0.3 to 0.6 metres below the ground level into the soil.
Pipe Strength
PVC pipe is the most suitable material for residential purposes, including industrial projects, because of its reliability, affordability, corrosion resistance, solidity, durability, and flexible installation.
It's always the top priority of most engineers to select the most suitable piping for your home or business. PVC pipes have various categories, and as such, you can choose any kind of pipe according to your needs.
High Water Velocity
If water flows through PVC too speedily, the internal water pressure increases, which can develop surge pressure inside the PVC pipes. The maximum water velocity for PVC pipes is 5 feet or 1.5 metres per second. The high flow rate of water flowing through the PVC pipes can increase the internal water pressure.
This high-water pressure can influence the resistance through the perforations. Therefore, for an irrigation system involving water pipes, it is crucial to understand the water flow velocities inside PVC pipes. The overhead measures help you ensure that your PVC piping system will survive as long as you maintain the pipes.
Types Of PVC Pipes
The quality and the types of the PVC pipes used are specific to specific needs. Here we discuss some categories below:
CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride)
CPVC is a firm thermoplastic material that is used explicitly for hot and cold potable water demands in residential construction. CPVC acts as the resistant system. It is primarily used in water companies due to its resistance to bacteria.
MPVC (Modified Polyvinyl Chloride)
Compatible modifying agents mixed into PVC enhance the PVC pipe's toughness and resistance to cracking. It minimises the threat of scratches.
UPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride)
UPVC is a solid polymer with no BPA and phthalates. Its inside surface is smooth, which prevents hindrance.
The Difference
Usually, UPVC is considered the same as PVC. But it's not true. The significant difference is the gauge, as both have different usages. PVC is a flexible pipe in comparison to UPVC. In contrast, UPVC is solid and less flexible. UPVC is an excellent option for home or old home renovating because it has some strong gauge.
While PVC pipe is also a fantastic option for the sewerage system, we do not recommend PVC for a hot water heater distribution system because it has no capacity over 60 degrees Celsius.
UPVC has a capacity of over 93 degrees Celsius. PVC is an excellent option for drain waste compared to PVC and CPVC. Like other plumbing materials, PVC piping has to be accurately installed and executed correctly in order to last for the long term.
Longevity Of Pipes In Your Home
PVC pipe is an incredibly reliable, durable material. In other words, it is a perfect material to be used in home plumbing projects and for irrigation. PVC pipes are best known for their durability, rigidity, strength, affordability, and cost-effectiveness. Nevertheless, it has a few protective measures that should be taken before installation.
The above-mentioned protective measure would ensure the long-lasting strength of the PVC pipes. It has been stated that the correct use of PVC pipes can prevent PVC piping system failures. The life expectancy of PVC depends on some terms and conditions. Properly installed PVC can survive over 50 to 100 years as these protective measures maintain and improve the PVC pipes' durability, strength, and reliability.
However, if you require a pipe relining or replacement, home maintenance, or even if a home inspection is coming up, why not reach out to professional plumbers to ensure that the job is done right the first time. Moreover, expert plumbers can also check valves on your property to ensure they are in the correct working condition.
