PVC Pipe or Low Density Poly Pipe?

PVC – Pros

• Water travels more comfortably ie; less friction loss through pvc

• A wider range of PVC pipe sizes are available. Ranging from 15mm to 100mm.

• PVC pipe is more sturdy and less likely to be affected by plant and tree roots.

  
  

PVC – Cons

• PVC Pipe is not as flexible as Poly Tube, so more fittings are required.

• PVC Pipe is not suitable for commonly used DIY Micro Sprays.

• It is not quite as easy to carry out PVC Pipe repairs for a DIY person.

• PVC pipe joints involve solvent welding ( glueing) which is not difficult but is a longer process compared to LDPE.

• PVC Pipe is made in 6 metre lengths and will require a ute or a minivan to transport.

• The sun will affect PVC Pipe when not buried, making it brittle over time.

  
  

LDPE – Pros

• Poly Tube has a degree of flexibility which can make trench routes a bit easier.

• Poly Tube joints can be easily completed with a pair of sharp secatures for cutting and a pair of multi grips for tightening the ratchet clamp (a jug of hot water can be helpfull on those cold Winter morning to slightly soften the tube before sliding onto the fitting).

• Poly Tube systems are easier to modify and repair

• Poly Tube is commonly available in 25, 50, and 100 metre rolls which will easily fit in a car boot

• Poly Tube is the only option for use with a Micro Sprays.

  
  

LDPE – Cons

• When larger water volumes need to be moved, Poly tube is not ideal due to friction loss and limited larger sizes

• Poly pipe will often be moved around in the ground by tree roots and plant growth.

• It is not unusual for poly tube to be crushed as plants grow and roots develop.

• Poly Pipe has been seen to melt in certain above ground installations such as across roofs with reflective surfaces.

  
  

It is safe to say LDPE is the common choice amongst Landscapers and do-it-yourself-ers for use in watering systems. Also safe to say Class 12 PVC piping is the more common choice amongst irrigation installers.These choices however will  often be influenced by the type of watering to be installed. Micro Spray and Drip Systems will usually see Poly Tube used. Spray Systems will see both PVC Pipe and Poly Tube used. From our almost 40 years of experience both materials will last equally as long in the ground so have no fear that one material will break down quicker than the other.