Irrigation projects are time-consuming work that can quickly become expensive. A great way to save money on an irrigation project is to use PVC pipe on a branch pipe, or pipe between the valve on the main water pipe and the sprinkler. While PVC pipe works well as a transverse material, the type of PVC pipe required varies from job to job. When choosing which plumbing to use in your job, it’s important to make sure you take external factors such as water pressure and sunlight into account. Choosing the wrong type can lead to a lot of extra, unnecessary maintenance. This week’s blog post covers common types of PVC irrigation pipes. Get ready to save time, water and money!

Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC Pipe PVC Pipe
When choosing PVC irrigation pipes, both Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 pipes are common types of irrigation PVC pipe. They handle roughly the same amount of stress, so if you opt for a Schedule 40, you won’t have to worry about more frequent interruptions. Schedule 80 pipe has thicker walls and is therefore more structurally sound, so you may want to use Schedule 80 pipe if you are building an above-ground system.

No matter which type of PVC pipe you choose, it is important to expose the pipe to as little sunlight as possible. While some PVC types are more resistant to sunlight than others, any PVC pipe that is exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time can become brittle quickly. There are several options for sun protection for your irrigation system. 3-4 coats of exterior latex paint provide adequate sun protection. You can also use foam pipe insulation. Underground systems do not require sun protection. Finally, water pressure isn’t a huge issue when it comes to branch pipes. Most pressure fluctuations in irrigation systems occur on the main line. Subsequently, you will only need PVC pipe with a PSI rating equal to the system pressure.

pipe laying

Placement and Accessories
If you choose an underground system, be sure to bury the pipes at least 10 inches deep. PVC pipes are brittle and can easily crack or break with a strong impact from a shovel. Also, the unburied PVC pipe is deep enough for winter to float to the top of the soil. It’s also a good idea to place foam pipe insulation on both above and below ground systems. This insulation protects pipes in above-ground systems from sunlight and protects against freezing in winter.

If you choose to use PVC pipe for your irrigation branch, make sure to use a pipe that is at least 3/4″ thick. 1/2″ branch can easily clog. If you choose to use fittings, most common types of PVC fittings will work fine. Socket joints with primer/cement can hold securely, as can threaded joints (metal and PVC). You can also use push-on fittings, which lock in place using flexible seals and teeth. If you use push-fit fittings, be sure to choose a fitting with a high-quality seal.

Polyethylene Pipe and PEX Pipe PEX Couplings
Polyethylene pipe and PEX pipe are also excellent materials for irrigation branches. These materials work best in underground systems; their flexibility makes them ideal for use next to rocky soil or large rocks. Polyethylene pipe and PEX pipe also work well in cold climates. They don’t need any additional insulation to keep out the cold. When choosing to use one or the other, keep in mind that PEX pipe is essentially a slightly stronger version of polyethylene pipe. However, the relatively high price of PEX pipe makes it unusable for large-scale irrigation operations. Polyethylene pipes are also more prone to breakage than PVC pipes. You will then need to select a pipe with a PSI rating 20-40 higher than static pressure. If the system is in heavy use, it is better to use a higher PSI level to ensure no interruptions occur.

Placement and Accessories
Polyethylene pipe and PEX pipe should only be used in underground systems. Like PVC pipes, you should bury pipes of these materials at least 10 inches deep to avoid shoveling and damage in winter. Burying polyethylene and PEX pipes requires special plows, but most machines of this type can dig up to 10 inches deep.

Polyethylene pipe and PEX pipe can be clamped to the main line. In addition, push-fit fittings are also available. Saddles are becoming an increasingly popular way to connect polyethylene and PEX tubing to sprinklers. If you choose to use a saddle that requires drilling, make sure to clean the pipes thoroughly before attaching them to anything to remove excess plastic.