Polyvinyl chloride pipes were introduced pvc fitting in the as alternatives to other plumbing materials available at the time. These new inexpensive and durable pipes quickly became popular and are still the type of piping that are most-used for water supply lines. While it’s estimated that pipes will last about 100 years, the exact lifespan isn’t known because PVC piping hasn’t been around that long yet.One of the most harmful things for pipes is sun exposure. that is run above ground and exposed to sunlight can break down faster than it normally would. The ultraviolet rays from the sun can actually break down the structure of PVC material and make it brittle and breakable.
There are some ways that you can protect PVC piping systems even those that have to be run above ground. The best ways to do so are by painting the pipes or providing a covering for exposed pipes. PVC manufacturers recommend that a thin coat of a light-colored latex-based paint be applied to protect any exposed piping. This will keep the pipes from showing any discoloration from the sunlight and help keep them strong and durable. It’s also recommended that when you buy PVC pipe, you do so from a supplier, such as PVC Fittings Online, that stores the piping in a covered warehouse, so it’s not exposed to damaging sun rays before you even buy it.For PVC piping systems that are buried underground, sunlight won’t be a problem, but debris, soil movement, and freezing temperatures may be.
The debris and rocks that are underground with your pipes can lead to friction, which can cause damage to PVC pipes. Additionally, in climates where freezing temperatures occur, PVC pipes may be at risk. When the ground freezes and thaws, it can cause soil to shift, contract, and expand, which can all damage a plumbing system. While PVC is more flexible than other materials, it does still have a breaking point, and it’s often soil movement that can cause it to fail.Fortunately, there are some best practices that will mitigate the risks of damage for underground PVC pipes and piping systems. First, it’s important that as much debris and rock is removed from the soil where a piping system will be going.
Whether it’s a contractor who is doing the work, or you as a homeowner, it’s essential that the soil is as rock- and debris-free as possible. That may mean removing rocky soil and replacing it with sand. Another best practice to remember is that PVC piping lines should be installed at least one to two feet below ground to prevent damage from freezing and thawing cycles.If piping systems are not planned and installed properly, it can result in the system failing. Obviously, this is true of any type of plumbing system. One of the most common mistakes that is made when piping systems are installed is using too much or too little PVC cement here to bond pipes to fittings. is a very porous material, too much cement can cause it to break down. Conversely, when too little cement is used, it can create weakened bonds that may leak or break.
