Maya Ellison
Sewer pipes are typically made of plastic, clay, iron, or a composite material called Orangeburg. Plastic sewer pipes are usually made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). ABS is a sturdy black plastic that tends to be softer than PVC. It is used for vent and drain lines, as well as other outdoor underground uses where cold temperatures are common. PVC is a hard, durable plastic that is resistant to corrosion, acids, and alkalis, making it ideal for drainage pipes. It is the most widely used material in residential sewer line installations today due to its durability, lightweight, and cost-effectiveness. Other types of plastic pipes include PP (polypropylene), PE (polyethylene), and CPVC (chlorinated PVC).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sewer pipe materials | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), clay, cast iron, and Orangeburg |
| Most common plastic plumbing pipes | Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes |
| Most widely used material in residential sewer line installations | PVC |
| Common uses | Water transfer, main water lines, sanitary sewers, soil and waste, gas, cable protection |
| Diameters | 12 to 400 mm (0.472 to 15.748 inches) |
| Lengths | 3 m (9.84 ft), 4 m (13.12 ft), 5 m (16.40 ft), 6 m (19.69 ft) |
| Benefits of plastic pipes | Affordable, durable, lightweight, corrosion-resistant, smooth interior, long-lasting, versatile, recyclable |
| Drawbacks of plastic pipes | Prone to warping, potential health risks due to BPA, lack of heat resistance, becomes brittle over time |
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What You'll Learn
ABS vs PVC pipes
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) are two of the most common types of pipe used for plumbing systems. While they share some common uses, they have distinct differences.
ABS pipes are black, stronger, more shock-resistant, and better at handling severely cold temperatures. They are also less likely to deform in high temperatures, making them suitable for both hot and cold water applications. They are also resistant to a variety of chemicals, making them ideal for industrial settings. However, they are not suitable for direct exposure to sunlight as they can warp. They are also more expensive and contain a chemical called bisphenol A, also known as BPA, which has been linked to potential health risks.
PVC pipes, on the other hand, are typically white, more flexible, and commonly used for indoor plumbing. They are also soundproof, so you won't hear the water flow through the pipes. They are perfect for water lines, drains, and wastewater. They are also more durable and versatile. However, they are not suitable for outdoor use as sun exposure has a negative effect on them over time.
In terms of installation, ABS pipes have a one-step process for connecting pipes, while PVC pipes have a two-step process. ABS pipes can be bonded instantly with a block of special cement, whereas PVC pipe ends must first be treated with a primer before cement can be applied. This makes the installation process for PVC pipes more labour-intensive and costly.
Overall, the choice between ABS and PVC pipes depends on the specific requirements of the plumbing project, including factors such as cost, flexibility, durability, and temperature resistance.
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Pros and cons of PVC pipes
Sewer pipes are usually made from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). While both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, PVC is the most commonly used pipe for sanitary sewers.
Pros of PVC Pipes
PVC pipes are lightweight, easy to cut, and inexpensive, making them a popular choice for plumbers. They are also rust and corrosion-resistant, unlike older pipes made from materials such as galvanized steel, clay, or cast iron. This means that, unless they become damaged, they can last for generations. PVC pipes are also soundproof, which means you won't hear the water flowing through the pipes.
PVC is a thermoplastic polymer, a combination of vinyl and plastic that softens at high temperatures. This means it is suitable for transporting highly pressurized water, like what would be found in a home's main water supply line.
PVC pipes are also eco-friendly, as their production creates fewer carbon emissions than other pipe materials. They are easy to mould, which means they can be made into any shape to fit any home.
Cons of PVC Pipes
PVC pipes are not suitable for transporting hot water as they can warp and melt when in contact with heat. They also have low-pressure ratings of about 100 psi for a 4-inch pipe.
There are limited sizing options for PVC pipes, which can be an issue if you have specific size requirements. The fittings that connect the pipes may also be too bulky for tight spaces.
PVC pipes are typically white, which may not be aesthetically pleasing for some.
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Pros and cons of ABS pipes
Sewer pipes are typically made from clay, cast iron, or plastic. Plastic sewer pipes are usually made from either Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). ABS pipes are black, while PVC pipes are commonly white.
ABS pipes are a popular choice for plumbers in Los Angeles, California, and are used in many homes' drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems. They are also used in industrial settings. Here are some pros and cons of ABS pipes:
Pros of ABS Pipes
- They are shock-resistant and can survive minor earthquakes (magnitude 3 or lower) without breaking.
- They are compatible with other drain pipes, such as PVC pipes.
- They are easy to cut and shape, making them ideal for use in tight spaces.
- They are quick to install, as they only require a one-step process using special cement.
- They are cost-effective and can be used for commercial and residential uses.
- They are durable and can withstand both interior and exterior plumbing uses for decades.
Cons of ABS Pipes
- They are not suitable for drinking water pipes due to their Bisphenol A (BPA) content, which can contaminate water. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration considers BPA safe in certain amounts, there is some disagreement about the potential health risks of BPA to humans and animals.
- They are susceptible to direct sunlight, which can cause them to warp and break.
- They face more regulations in local building codes, particularly for freshwater use, as some codes do not permit ABS pipes for these applications.
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Other types of sewer pipes
Sewer pipes can be made from a variety of materials, including clay, cast iron, and plastic. While clay and cast iron have their advantages, such as longer lifespans and strength, plastic pipes have become increasingly popular due to their ease of use and other beneficial properties.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
ABS pipes are made from a sturdy black plastic that was one of the first plastics used for residential plumbing. They are mainly used for vent and drain lines and other outdoor underground applications where cold temperatures are common. ABS pipes are extremely strong, resistant to extreme weather conditions, and have a noise-dampening effect. They are also cost-effective and quick to install, making them a popular choice for plumbers. However, they are more prone to warping and lack the long-term performance and versatility of some other pipe materials.
Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX)
PEX pipes are one of the newest types of plastic plumbing pipes available. They are much more flexible than other pipe materials, making installation quicker and easier. PEX pipes can bend up to 90-degree angles, reducing the number of pipe connection sites needed. They are also naturally heat-resistant and less likely to burst during the winter when water freezes inside.
Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC)
CPVC is a type of PVC that has been treated with chlorine, making it more resistant to high temperatures and pressures. It is commonly used in industrial plumbing and residential hot water lines that standard PVC would not be suitable for.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE is a durable and flexible material that can be used for a wide range of plumbing needs. It can reduce water pressure due to its low coefficient of friction, allowing water to flow more easily. HDPE is a good choice for trenchless installations and where flexibility and soil movement resistance are important. It is more expensive upfront but can save money in the long run, especially in challenging environments.
Polypropylene (PP)
PP is a thermoplastic polymer with high impact resistance, good stiffness, and high chemical resistance. It is suitable for sewer applications and in-house discharge systems for soil and waste. A special grade of PP can also be used for warm water supply.
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How to identify your sewer pipe
Sewer pipes are typically made from materials such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), clay, cast iron, or a fiber conduit pipe called Orangeburg.
Identifying Your Sewer Pipe
If you're trying to identify your sewer pipe, the first thing to do is to locate your indoor sewer cleanout point, which is usually in the basement, crawl space, or garage. You're looking for a pipe that is approximately four inches in diameter with a screw cap on top that has a notch or square knob. If you can't find the main sewer line in your house, it's likely in your yard. Sewer line access points outside of the home can usually be found at the foundation of the house or near the street where the sewer line joins the municipal sewer main. The sewer line will typically be sticking out of the ground and be easy to spot, although landscaping or objects close to the house could be obscuring the cap.
If you're on a city/municipality sewer, observing the location of your neighbours' cleanouts should tell you if your sewer pipe is at the front or back of your house. You can also use a pipe locator to find your sewer pipe, which emits signals or displays readings when it detects the pipe's presence. As you move, mark the ground or use flags to trace the path of the sewer line.
If you're not certain about the condition of your sewer pipe, you can order a non-invasive video pipe inspection, where a video line is sent down the sewer line to detect breaks and cracks. In clean sections, the type of sewer pipe can usually be identified.
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Frequently asked questions
The two most common types of plastic used for sewer pipes are Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).
ABS pipes are always black, whereas PVC pipes are commonly white.
ABS pipes contain a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA), whereas PVC pipes do not. BPA is considered safe for humans and animals in certain amounts, but there is some debate about its potential health risks. ABS pipes are also softer than PVC pipes, but more durable.
ABS and PVC pipes are both lightweight, easy to cut, and inexpensive. They also have smooth interiors, which help to reduce clogs and improve carrying capacity for solid waste matter.
