PVC drainage lines are the most common type of drain pipe that's found in homes, and they're also available at low prices. ABS piping is similar but less commonly used. Therefore, if you need to have a drain pipe replaced, you'll usually need a PVC drainage pipe.
Use PVC if you need a long-lasting, durable solution with better flow characteristics, especially for applications requiring higher performance. Use corrugated pipe for simpler, cost-effective drainage solutions in less demanding environments, such as yard drainage or agricultural applications.
Material. Polyvinyl Chloride pipes are the most commonly used pipes for any drainage project. Due to the material's malleable properties, PVC pipes can come in almost any size. These types of pipes are great for drainage situations where the water and environment exert a great deal of pressure and weight.
You can use an inexpensive, flexible drainage hose if you need a curved drain or longer-lasting PVC pipe if you want a more durable system. If you choose the latter, drill holes about 6 inches apart along the length of the pipe.
To carry water away from the foundation, a footing drain system should be installed consisting of a perforated drain pipe (also called drain tile) that is located underground on the exterior side of the footings at a depth below the level of the basement slab or crawlspace floor.
PVC pipes are widely used for underground drainage systems due to their high durability, flexibility, and ease of installation. They don't break or crack, and they can withstand extremely cold temperatures, unlike other materials, such as copper.
If absorption and drainage are required, perforated pipe should be used. If pipe serves only to move water away from an area (such as downspout run-offs, etc.), non-perforated pipe is best because it will not dissipate water into the surrounding area.
All drainage pipes should be placed on the gravel bed in the trench. PVC drainpipe, if used, should be placed in the trench with the holes facing down. Pipe connections shall not impair the overall function of the pipeline.
Once you start digging your drain depth will need to be anywhere from eight inches to two feet, depending on your needs and available options.
PVC pipes are the best option for most drainage projects due to their strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to install. PVC pipes are strong enough to withstand the weight of soil and water and are not easily damaged by roots or debris.
A three-inch pipe is what's used in homes to pipe toilets. The four-inch pipe is used as the building drain under floors or in crawlspaces to transport all the wastewater from a home out to the septic tank or sewer. The four-inch pipe may also be used in a home if it's capturing two or more bathrooms.
PVC Drainage Lines
PVC drainage lines are the most common type of drain pipe that's found in homes, and they're also available at low prices. ABS piping is similar but less commonly used.
All pipes should be laid in a trench that is 300mm wider than the pipes themselves. In addition to this, all plastic pipe runs need to be laid on a 10mm layer of pea shingle or fine gravel. This will provide a base for larger grade material and backfill to be placed on top later.
Cons of Using Corrugated Pipe:
Much lower flow rates. Since the pipe is flexible, water can sit in low spots after rain events. Have to be more precise to dig a flat and properly pitched trench before installing.
ABS: Short for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, this sturdy plastic was one of the first plastics used for residential plumbing. ABS pipes are always black and tend to be softer than PVC. They are mainly used for vent and drain lines, along with other outdoor underground uses where cold temperatures are common.
The minimum cover required when the drainage system is in a traffic area with drainage pipe diameters from 100 mm through 1200 mm (4”-48”) must have at least 0.3 m (12”) of cover over the pipe crown, while 1500 mm (60”) pipes must have at least 0.6 m (24”) of cover.
What is the best pipe to use for an underground water line? You can use both PVC and PEX pipes for an underground water line. Both are able to be buried and can withstand high pressure. They are also resistant to rusting and corrosion.
Pea Gravel's reputation as the best option for drainage stems from its unique properties. These small, rounded stones have high permeability, allowing water to flow through easily and preventing accumulation. This makes it perfect for various applications, including French drains, garden beds, and pathways.
French Drains
The perforations in the pipe allow water to seep into the drain, and the gravel helps to filter out any debris. The soil on top helps to keep the gravel in place and also aids in the absorption of water. French drains are an effective way to reduce flooding and prevent water damage.
Pea gravel is one of the best materials for landscape drainage because its small size allows for outstanding drainage. These rocks are only about ¾ inches in size. Pea gravel is available in a variety of shades, including brown, grey, blue, and red, making it a good choice for a number of different landscapes.
While 4-inch corrugated is the industry standard, there are several reasons why a 3-inch downspout pipe could be the right choice for particular drainage application. 3-inch corrugated pipe moves roof runoff water at a higher velocity.
While landscapers use “non-rigid corrugated NDS pipes,” we use drainage grade PVC pipe because it is more durable and longer-lasting, especially when buried under heavy materials like soil. The corrugated pipe is cheaper but not nearly as strong.
An ABS pipe is more heavy-duty than a PVC pipe. This can make it an ideal choice for sewage jobs and other underground applications that may subject the piping to lower temperatures. PVC, on the other hand, is more commonly used for water lines and indoor plumbing.