PVC and CPVC are two of the most commonly used types of piping in the plumbing and HVAC industries. Although both pipes are made of plastic, their chemical compositions are different. However, they're similar enough that how you handle, store, and use PVC and CPVC is fairly similar.
It's important to handle and store PVC and CPVC properly. Improper usage, handling, or installation can lead to malfunctions resulting in your pipe not lasting as long as it should. Additionally, if you don't store PVC and CPVC pipe properly, it won't have as long of a shelf life and could result in issues down the road.
If you use lots of PVC and CPVC pipe and want to know how to properly store and handle it, you've come to the right place. There's even a chance you've been using these materials improperly for years and don't even know it.
Main Differences Between PVC and CPVC Pipe
Before we delve into how to handle and store PVC and CPVC piping, it's important to understand that they aren't the same thing. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride and consists of a hard and dense plastic.
CPVC, while also being a hard dense plastic, stands for chlorinated polyvinyl chloride. The chemical composition is very similar to PVC, except that CPVC has a chlorinated outer coat. Because of this chlorination, CPVC has several key differences than PVC, including:
• A higher melting point
• More durability
• More flexibility
• A higher temperature tolerance
• More uses
• Color: CPVC is often Grey or Yellowish for CTS CPVC
Because of these differences, CPVC is also more expensive than PVC and requires a different type of adhesive and primer.
Common Applications of Each Type of Pipe
PVC and CPVC are both versatile and widely used pipes in the plumbing and HVAC industries. Here are some of the most common applications for each:
Common Uses For PVC in Residential, Industrial, and Commercial Settings
• Drains in plumbing systems
• Sewage systems
• Condensation pipes on ACs
• Drinking water pipes
• Furnace and water heater vents
• Irrigation systems
Common Uses for CPVC in Residential, Industrial, and Commercial Settings
• Drains for plumbing systems
• Vents and exhausts for furnaces and water heaters
• Transferring chemicals
• Agriculture and irrigation systems
In general, CPVC pipe can be used for everything that PVC is used for. CPVC can also handle liquids at a higher temperature than PVC, as well as stronger chemicals.
Why Proper Handling and Storage is Important
When you use PVC and CPVC piping, you expect it to be in good condition and ready to go. However, improper handling and storage can compromise the pipes integrity, leading to cracking, warping, and contamination. If you don't notice these issues and install the pipe anyways, leaks and other issues will result.
In addition to leaky pipes and connections, improper handling of PVC and CPVC pipes can also lead to financial problems. You may be held liable for property damage due to your faulty installation, not to mention the cost of replacing your bad pipes with good ones. On top of financial loss, this also wastes a ton of time and energy.
Best Practices for Handling PVC and CPVC Pipe
Now that you know the importance of properly handling PVC and CPVC pipes, let's look at the right way to do it.
Lifting and Carrying
PVC and CPVC piping can be anywhere from lightweight to heavy, depending on how thick it is. You should always use your knees when lifting these pipes and shoulder carry them. You should also enlist a helper if you're carrying pipes longer than 10 feet.
Cutting
To cut PVC and CPVC, you can use either a sawzall or a pipe cutter. A pipe cutter takes longer but makes clean precise cuts. If you use a reciprocating saw, be sure to debur the ends of the pipe after you make your cut.
Joining
When you join PVC or CPVC to another pipe or fitting, be sure to use the recommended primer and glue. Each type of pipe has its own primer and glue, and you can't use them interchangeably.
Transporting
Although PVC and CPVC pipes are strong and dense, they're prone to cracking, especially in cold weather. Therefore, it's important that you always strap them down securely if you're transferring them in the back of or on top of a truck, van, or trailer. This will prevent jostling and shifting, which can lead to cracks.
How to Store CPVC and PVC Pipes
It's best to store PVC and CPVC pipe indoors in a climate-controlled area. These pipes tend to get brittle in cold weather, making them prone to chipping and cracking. Additionally, storing your pipes outdoors in the sun can expose them to UV damage which can also cause cracking and chipping.
Other PVC and CPVC pipe storage tips include:
• Store your pipes in a flat area free of debris
• Keep the pipes away from high-traffic areas and machinery
• If you store them outdoors, cover them with a UV-resistant and frost-proof covering
• Don't store anything heavy on top of the pipes as it can warp them
• For pipes longer than 10 feet, have supports on either end of the pipes to prevent warping
Common Mistakes to Avoid With PVC and CPVC Pipe
Here's a quick look at some of the most common mistakes to avoid regarding PVC and CPVC pipe:
• Leaving them exposed to the sun for too long
• Leaving them outside when it's below freezing
• Not properly stacking and supporting them in storage
• Not using the proper glue and primer when making connections
• Failing to debur the ends of pipes you cut with a reciprocating saw
• Using PVC in situations where it will be exposed to high temperatures
Care and Maintenance Tips For PVC and CPVC Pipe
The great thing about PVC and CPVC pipe is that they're almost entirely maintenance-free. As long as you follow the storage and handling tips in this article, your PVC and CPVC pipes will be ready to go when you need them most.
Proper storage and handling will also ensure that your PVC and CPVC last as long as possible. You can also rest assured that, as long as you install them properly, your pipes will do their job indefinitely and hold up under the elements.