Looking for PVC pipe for a project or home repair? Unfortunately, in recent years, the cost of PVC has steadily increased. If you’ve noticed this dilemma, you might want to try researching PVC pipe prices a lot more closely before you buy.
We don’t blame you. So before you start your next project involving PVC pipes, here’s a guide to how much it costs.
What is PVC pipe and what is it used for?
First, you might be wondering what exactly PVC is. Similarly, you may be wondering if it is the right material to use for your upcoming home project.
PVC is an acronym that stands for polyvinyl chloride. It is a petrochemical, thermoplastic material that is used in a variety of applications, both commercial and residential. Common places you’ll find PVC are in plumbing pipes, siding, fences, windows, and more.
In general, PVC is a strong and lightweight material that is relatively inexpensive compared to other types of plastic and other types of piping. This makes it an attractive option for many different types of projects, unlike other materials such as copper, aluminum or stainless steel to name a few.
Types of PVC pipes and their price
As you research, you may be surprised to learn that there are many different types and sizes of PVC pipe available on the market. It can get confusing, so we’ve distilled the information for you.
One way to classify PVC pipes is by their pressure rating. There are two pressure levels that are most common. Let’s look at them:
1. Schedule 40 PVC pipe
One of the most common types of PVC you will find is schedule 40 PVC pipe. This is the type that is white pipe and the type you will find at your local hardware store.
PVC pipe scheme 40 it is lightweight, durable and resistant to chemicals and bacteria. Not only that, but Schele 40 PVC tubing also has relatively thin walls, which makes it ideal for many different types of projects. For example, it is often used for a variety of applications, including drainage, irrigation, and other systems involving cold water flow.
Although it is generally white, it can also be found in a multitude of other colors such as black, grey, pink, purple and so on. However, if you’re using it in your home, such as in the drainage system around your yard, you’ll want to use white because that’s the most common type and is what your plumber expects. Certain colors of pipes signal to plumbing professionals what that pipe’s function is.
Schedule 40 PVC pipe price
The price for any pipe (Schedule 40 or otherwise) will depend on the diameter size of the pipe as well as the PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure it can handle. It will also depend on the brand and the hardware store. That said, here are some of the more common prices:
- 1/2 inch x 10 ft. schedule 40 pipe: $0.54 per foot
- 3/4 in. x 10 ft. schedule 40 pipe: $0.71 per foot
- 1 1/4 in. x 10 ft. schedule 40 pipe: $1.34 per foot
- 2 in. x 10 ft. schedule 40 pipe: $1.95 per foot
- 3 in. x 10 ft. schedule 40 pipe: $4.18 per foot
- 4 in. x 10 ft. schedule 40 pipe: $3.30 per foot
As you can see, Schele 40 PVC pipe quite often comes in 10 foot lengths. However, they also come in other sizes, such as 24 inches (or 2 feet) long. Prices will vary for this length from the 10 foot length.
2. Schedule 80 PVC pipe
Another common type of PVC you will find is schedule 80 PVC. Schedule 80 it is very similar to program 40 PVC, except that it is a stronger and more durable type of PVC pipe. This is because the pipe walls are thicker.
Thicker walls on hourly 80 PVC they also make it more resistant to chemicals and bacteria than schedule 40 PVC. However, this comes with a downside. Thicker walls make pipes less flexible, which can make installation more difficult.
Schedule 80 PVC is usually found in gray, as opposed to the typical white of Schedule 40, and is approved by the NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) to be suitable for potable water maintenance.
It is often used in commercial applications due to its durability. For example, you can find it in high pressure applications such as ceiling sprinkler systems and outside cold water supply lines. Or you may find the pipes acting as conduits for electrical wiring in buildings.
Price of Schedule 80 PVC pipe
In terms of price, Schedule 80 industrial grade PVC pipe will be more expensive than Schedule 40. Here are some average prices for Schedule 80 PVC:
- 1/2 inch x 5 ft. Schedule 80 PVC pipe: $1.27 per foot
- 3/4 in. x 5 ft. Schedule 80 PVC pipe: $1.70 per foot
- 1 inch x 5 ft. Schedule 80 PVC pipe: $2.48 per foot
- 1 1/4 in. x 5 ft. Schedule 80 PVC pipe: $3.52 per foot
- 2 in. x 5 ft. Schedule 80 PVC pipe: $5.46 per foot
- 3 in. x 5 ft. Schedule 80 PVC pipe: $18.30 per foot
- 4 in. x 5 ft. Schedule 80 PVC pipe: $15.81 per foot
Listed here are some of the prices for Schema 80 tubing in 5 foot lengths. Diameter on 5 foot pipes goes up to at least 14 inches in diameter, so there is a wide selection to choose from. And if you prefer a different length, there are many to choose from, including 8-foot and 10-foot lengths.
While schedule 80 PVC is more expensive, keep in mind that it is also more durable and resistant. If you need a pipe that will withstand a lot of wear and tear, such as in an industrial setting, then the 80 PVC schedule is a good option.
Other types of plastic pipes and their price
Now that you know the two main types of PVC pipe based on wall thickness and PSI, let’s look at a few other types of PVC pipe. Each of these can have either a 40 pressure program or an 80 pressure program.
1. PVC-U pipe
PVC-U pipe it is a non-plasticized PVC pipe. This means that it is not as flexible as other types of PVC, but it is also stronger and more durable. It is often used in construction because it can withstand high pressures and can be used above ground or underground.
You can find this PVC pipe in gray, white, black, and even clear, among others. Clear PVC-U tubing is great for use in labs, chemical processing, even electroplating or food manufacturing as long as they have been FDA approved to be food safe. PVC-U can also be rated with either a 40 or 80 pressure schedule.
2. CPVC pipe
CPVC pipe it is made of PVC resin that has been chlorinated. This gives the pipe additional strength, makes it resistant to corrosion and allows it to withstand high temperatures. For example, regular PVC pipes can withstand up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, while CPVC can withstand up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit!
However, it is very flexible, so it will need support every three feet or so to help the pipe maintain its optimal shape and function. It is excellent for residential or industrial applications as well as hot and cold water delivery.
You will find CPVC pipes in white, but they can also come in other colors, such as gray.
3. PEX pipe
PEX pipe is a thin cross-linked polyethylene pipe that is very popular these days because it is more flexible than PVC while being strong and durable. It is great for indoor and outdoor plumbing applications. PEX pipes are often used and in radiant heating systems.
This type of pipe is available in red, blue, and white, among other colors. You may also find it labeled with a number to indicate the level of flexibility. For example, PEX-1 has less flexibility than PEX-3.
PEX pipes use a different pressure rating system, however, they measure their pressure in PSI, just like PVC pipes.
In conclusion
There you have it – a handy guide to understanding PVC pipe and the prices you’re likely to find!
Now that you know more about PVC pipe and the different types of plastic pipe, you can make a more informed decision when it comes to your next plumbing project. Always make sure you do your research and find a reputable supplier of quality piping products.
Also, prices are subject to change, so always check prices at your local hardware store before estimating how much your project will cost.
Have you ever needed to buy PVC pipes? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
