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Schedule 40 PVC Pipe

(15 products)

Schedule 40 PVC pipe is the most widely used thermoplastic pipe for residential, commercial, and light industrial applications. It handles both pressure and drainage applications with temperature ratings up to 140°F and pressure ratings ranging from 120 PSI to over 800 PSI depending on pipe diameter. We sell Schedule 40 PVC pipe in 5-foot sections that ship via UPS, making it easy to get the pipe you need without coordinating freight delivery. Available in sizes from 1/2" through 14", all white, and all ASTM D1784 compliant and NSF-14 certified for potable water.
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Why We Sell 5-Foot Sections

We cut our pipe into 5-foot sections, with an actual length of approximately 59.5 inches, so it can ship via FedEx directly to your door. This eliminates the hassle and cost of freight carriers, especially for smaller projects or hard-to-find sizes where a full 20-foot stick is not practical. Need longer lengths? Let us know here.

Sizes and Pressure Ratings

Schedule 40 PVC pipe is available in nominal sizes from 1/2 inch through 14 inches. Pressure ratings decrease as pipe diameter increases. Small pipe, such as 1/2 inch, is rated at 600 PSI at 73°F, while larger sizes, such as 6-inch pipe, are rated at 280 PSI and 12-inch pipe is rated at 160 PSI. All pressure ratings should be derated for operating temperatures above 73°F.

For exact dimensions, wall thicknesses, and pressure ratings by size, see our PVC Pipe Dimensions Chart.

PVC pipe is sized nominally, which means the number on the label does not match the actual outside diameter. A 1-inch nominal pipe has an actual outside diameter of 1.315 inches, while a 2-inch pipe has an outside diameter of 2.375 inches. Nominal sizes 14 inches and above are the exception, where the nominal size matches the actual outside diameter.

This sizing is consistent across Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC, so both schedules share the same outside diameter for a given nominal size. The difference is that Schedule 80 pipe has thicker walls and a smaller inside diameter.

Common Applications

  • Residential plumbing: Cold water supply lines, drain, waste and vent systems, and irrigation connections.
  • Irrigation and landscaping: Sprinkler systems, drip irrigation mainlines, and outdoor water distribution. PVC resists corrosion from soil contact, making it well suited for buried applications.
  • Pool and spa plumbing: Supply and return lines, filter connections, and equipment hookups.
  • Light industrial and commercial: Process water, chemical transfer where material compatibility has been confirmed, and facility plumbing where operating temperatures remain below 140°F.
  • DIY and structural projects: PVC furniture, greenhouse frames, display structures, and equipment enclosures. Schedule 40 pipe pairs with furniture-grade fittings for clean-looking, easy-to-assemble builds.

Schedule 40 vs. Schedule 80 PVC Pipe

Both schedules share the same outside diameter for each nominal size, so Schedule 40 fittings will fit Schedule 80 pipe and Schedule 80 fittings will fit Schedule 40 pipe. The primary difference is wall thickness.

Schedule 80 PVC has thicker walls, which gives it higher pressure ratings, greater impact resistance, and a smaller internal diameter for the same nominal size. Schedule 80 is typically dark gray and is commonly used in industrial, chemical-processing, and high-pressure applications.

For most residential, irrigation, pool, and light commercial projects, Schedule 40 PVC provides more than enough strength at a lower cost. Its larger internal diameter also supports better flow rates. Choose Schedule 80 when an application requires higher working pressures, greater impact resistance, or compliance with an engineering or code specification.

For a more detailed comparison, see our guide: Schedule 40 vs. Schedule 80 PVC.

Specifications

  • Material: PVC Type I, Grade 1, Cell Class 12454-B
  • Color: White
  • Sizes: 1/2 inch to 14 inches nominal
  • Length: 5-foot sections, approximately 59.5 inches actual length
  • Maximum Operating Temperature: 140°F
  • Pressure Rating: Varies by size, from 120 PSI to 810 PSI at 73°F
  • Standards: ASTM D1784 and ASTM D1785
  • Certifications: NSF-14 certified for potable water
  • Compatibility: Fits Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC socket fittings of the same nominal size

Installation Notes

Cut square and deburr. Use a ratchet-style PVC cutter for pipe up to 2 inches or a miter saw with a fine-tooth blade for larger sizes. Remove all burrs from the cut edges so the pipe can seat fully inside the fitting socket.

Dry-fit first. Assemble the pipe and fittings without cement to confirm the alignment and fit before completing the permanent connection.

Prime, then cement. Apply PVC primer to both the exterior of the pipe and the inside of the fitting socket, followed by PVC cement. Push the pieces together with a quarter turn and hold them in place for 15 to 30 seconds. For sizes up to 12 inches, a standard medium-set cement works well. For pipe over 12 inches, use a slow-set cement to provide adequate working time for larger joints.

Do not use for compressed gas. Schedule 40 PVC pipe should never be used to transport compressed air or other pressurized gases. PVC can shatter under gas pressure rather than developing a controlled leak, which creates a serious safety hazard.

Derate for temperature. Published pressure ratings are based on water at 73°F. When a system operates at higher temperatures, apply the manufacturer’s derating factor to determine the safe working pressure.

Need pipe in a size you do not see listed, or are you looking for full 10-foot or 20-foot lengths? Contact our team or request a quote for custom orders and bulk pricing.

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