Interestingly, the use of PVC for plumbing was one of the main factors that launched PVC into every infrastructure and renovation arena today. In fact, plumbing and pipelines usually see one of the largest PVC applications across the globe.
What makes PVC a reigning staple material for plumbing projects? The answer lies in the many added benefits it brings. For instance, PVC is easy to work with when compared to its metal or concrete counterparts. You can cut it almost effortlessly using a hacksaw or join it quickly using solvent cement.
Higher durability, safety, cost-efficiency, and ease of use are a few of the many benefits of PVC. But what makes it the perfect option for your plumbing renovation project? Read on to find out.
Cost-Efficient
PVC is an inexpensive but quality alternative to steel, cast iron, and concrete material. PVC is comparatively lighter and easy to install. It also comes with lower life cycle costs and breakage rates. Since PVC is extremely durable, it doesn’t require frequent maintenance which brings down the maintenance costs considerably in the long run. From easy installation to decreased life cycle costs – PVC pipes can effectively lower maintenance costs or any ongoing work on the pipes.
Durability
The very first PVC piping systems were applied over 80 years ago. Surprisingly, most of these systems are still in use today. Once installed, you can expect your PVC pipe systems to stay intact for more than 70 years. In fact, when compared to other materials, PVC offers a considerably lower failure rate and its durability brings down the maintenance costs to a bare minimum.
Plumbing systems often face unexpected blockages resulting in expensive repair services. PVC pipes help maintain adequate water pressure and reduce any flowrate resistance to help ensure the water travels smoothly to the intended destination.
Easy to Install
Another welcoming factor for PVC installation in plumbing renovation projects is its ease of installation. When compared to other materials, PVC has a 30% faster installation rate. The fact that PVC is extremely lightweight offers the convenience to install a new set of pipes quickly while ensuring maximum durability.
PVC pipes are also much lighter than other plumbing pipes. This makes them easy to carry and install without having to bear the burden of bulky and cumbersome pipes. In other words, PVC installation requires lesser manpower. Moreover, the lightweight PVC ensures no one faces any injury during the installation process. While installing PVC pipes is far from difficult, it’s nevertheless critical to follow the best practices during the entire process. Here are some points to remember when installing PVC pipes for your plumbing renovation project:
- Cutting the Pipe: When cutting a PVC pipe, make sure you go for the straight cut. Just about any type of saw can do the job. Once the cutting is complete, use sandpaper or a file to deburr the edges.
- Using a Primer: Using a PVC primer ensures robust adhesion by helping you get rid of any grease, oil, or other extraneous elements from the surface of the plastic. A primer is a thin, purple liquid that usually comes with a brush. Make sure you apply it liberally throughout the surface.
- Applying PVC Cement: PVC cement also comes with its own brush. Apply the cement uniformly and liberally to both the fitting and the PVC pipe. Since the cement can dry out very quickly, make sure the pipe is oriented towards the direction of the fitting so you can attach it immediately. Various cement products are available.
- Making the Connection: Thrust the pipe as deep inside the fitting as you can and twist it a little bit. Continue applying adequate pressure on the pipe for a few seconds to keep it in place while the cement is still wet. Make sure you wait for a minimum of 10 minutes before turning on the water.
Leak-Proof
PVC comes with leak-free joints, which, when combined with solvent cement simply seal all the necessary openings. As a result, you don’t have to face frequent water leaks. Pipes that are prone to corrosion often face water losses of over 40%. A PVC pipe’s leak-free joints teamed with its extra smooth structure keep the flow of water steady and consistent.
Higher Flexibility
When installed into the ground, plumbing systems often go through regular (and sometimes intense) shifts in the ground. The flexible nature of PVC offers higher resistance to fractures resulting from the movements in the ground. No matter how frequent or intense ground movements get, PVC pipes can efficiently flex and avoid any breakage from shifting soil weight or heavy-duty traffic.
Stays Clean
PVC is a winner when it comes to plumbing renovation projects – especially where corrosion resistance is concerned. Cast iron pipes and other pipes made from metal often face frequent issues with rust, corrosion, and other environmental impacts. PVC pipes, on the other hand, are scarcely susceptible to these effects.
Corrosion in plumbing pipes can result in harmful outcomes like a contaminated drinking water supply. It causes the water mains to burst, triggering expensive damages. PVC can be fairly immune to corrosion and make for safer and more secure pipes. With the lowest rates of pipe breakage, PVC plumbing pipes can be a safer alternative to concrete, cast iron, or steel alternatives.
PVC is also a non-toxic material and be used safely for pretty much all types of plumbing purposes. By keeping rust and corrosion out of the way, PVC ensures no contaminants, metals, or other particles reach the drinking or sewage pipes.
To Conclude
From efficient safety to lasting durability – using PVC pipes offers countless benefits when compared to their counterparts. When gearing up for your plumbing renovation activity, it’s critical to go with PVC that is efficient, cost-effective, and can last for years to come.
Author Bio:
Mark Ligon is the Marketing Manager at PVCFittingsOnline, a leading supplier of consumer-based PVC products; including piping, fittings, valves, plumbing supplies, and accessories. Mark is a DIYer and provides advice to individuals on DIY projects utilizing a range of PVC-type products.
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