PVC, or Polyvinyl Chloride piping has been used for a variety of purposes for many years. It is traditionally known to last between 25 and 40 years. However, with recent technological advancements, PVC pipes may be able to last 70 years or more.

Although PVC piping has a shorter lifespan than some other materials, it does have several benefits that may make it a good choice for your needs.

Here is a list of the normal lifespan of other types of pipes for comparison.

  • Clay – 50 to 60 years
  • Polybutylene – 10 to 15 years
  • Galvanized Steel – 20 to 50 years
  • Pex – 40 years
  • Brass – 40 to 70 years
  • Copper – 50 to 70 years
  • PVC – 25 to 70 years
  • Cast Iron – 75 to 100 years
  • Lead – 100 years

How Long Does PVC Pipe Last Above Ground?

The lifespan of PVC pipe can vary depending on the conditions it is exposed to. In general, PVC pipes can last a long time depending on how much exposure to the sun it has.

One of the most detrimental things for PVC pipes is sun exposure. When exposed to sunlight, it can break down much faster than usual and become brittle or even fragile in structure which means you’ll have leaks all over your house!

How Long Does PVC Pipe Last Underground?

PVC pipes have been known to last for more than 50 years when used for underground applications. As a result, PVC piping is a popular choice for sewer and drainage systems.

The pipes are resistant to most chemicals and can handle high pressures, making them ideal for these types of applications.

When used in underground applications, PVC piping should be installed with proper drainage to prevent water accumulation. If water does accumulate, it can cause the pipe to corrode and eventually fail.

How Long Does PVC Pipe Last In Concrete?

PVC pipe that is embedded in concrete can last for a very long time. In fact, some PVC pipes have been known to last for more than 70 years. This is because the concrete helps to protect the pipe from the heat and moisture that can cause it to degrade.

Concrete is also a very durable material, which means that the pipe will be less likely to crack or break. However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind when installing PVC pipe in concrete.

  • First of all, you should make sure that the pipe is properly embedded in the concrete. If it is not, then it may be more susceptible to damage.
  • Secondly, the type of concrete that you use can also make a difference. A high-quality concrete mix will help to protect the pipe from corrosion and other damage.

Overall, PVC pipe is a very durable material that can last for many years. If it is installed correctly, it can be a great choice for your plumbing needs.

Is CPVC And PVC The Same Thing?

No, CPVC and PVC are two different types of plastic. CPVC is a type of PVC that is specifically designed for plumbing applications. It is more resistant to corrosion and damage than traditional PVC pipe.

If you are looking for a plumbing pipe that will last for many years, then CPVC is the best option. PVC, on the other hand, is a more general-purpose plastic that can be used for a variety of applications. It is not as resistant to corrosion and damage as CPVC, but it is still a durable material.

But for this article, we’re going to focus on the topic of PVC pipes.

What Are The Benefits Of PVC Pipes?

PVC piping has several benefits that may make it a good choice for your needs.

The list of benefits of PVC Pipes includes:

  • Affordable
  • Easy to work with
  • Non-toxic
  • Resistant to corrosion and many chemicals
  • Environmentally friendly
  • More impenetrable to tree roots that other pipe materials

The reason PVC pipes are more impenetrable than other pipe materials is because they have fewer and tighter fitting joints and they are less likely to crack and leak. These two factors make them a superior piping product.

What Are The Drawbacks Of PVC Pipes?

However, PVC also has some drawbacks. One of the main issues with PVC is that it doesn’t last as long as some other materials. The traditional lifespan of PVC piping is between 25 and 40 years.

However, with recent technological advancements, PVC pipes may be able to last 70 years or more.

The downsides of PVC pipes include:

  • Because PVC is a plastic, it can be affected by UV rays and can become brittle in the sun.
  • It’s not as strong as metal pipes. This means that it’s not always the best option for projects that need to handle a lot of pressure.
  • If the temperature is consistently at or below the freezing point (32 degrees faherenheit or less) – and water is inside the PVC pipe – the pipe can crack and burst.
  • PVC can be prone to leaks, especially if it’s not installed correctly .

Despite these drawbacks, PVC is still a popular choice for many piping projects because of its affordability and versatility. It can be used for both indoor and outdoor projects, and it comes in a variety of sizes and colors.

When installed correctly, PVC pipe can be a reliable and long-lasting plumbing option.

Does PVC Pipe Deteriorate?

Most anything can deteriorate given enough time and poor conditions so Yes, PVC pipes can deteriorate.

The conditions that would cause this include:

  • Age: PVC pipes that are generally older than 70 years can certainly deteriorate simply from age.
  • Exposure to sun: PVC pipes do not handle years of exposure to the sun very well. They can become brittle and crack.
  • Cold temperatures: Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can also cause it to become brittle and crack.
  • Chemicals: Although PVC pipes can handle many types of chemicals, drain clog cleaners are particularly harmful to PVC pipes and can cause them to deteriorate.

All pipes have their Achilles’ heel. As long as you know what your pipes are made of and what their drawbacks are, you can help to protect them and make them last as long as possible.

Conclusion

PVC pipe is a popular choice for many reasons. It is affordable, versatile, and available in a variety of colors and sizes. Additionally, it can be used for both indoor and outdoor projects. PVC pipes are a good choice for most plumbing needs, but you should consider all your options before making a decision.

If you have any questions about PVC pipes or are having some problems with it, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-443-8229. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.