Thread: Irrigation System Pipes

If a galvanized steel pipe needs to be replaced in an irrigation system, should it be replaced with galvanized steel pipe or PVC? The pipe would be above ground, exposed to sun. Please provide reason(s) for answer.

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I would think that the pipe in question is supporting a back-flow device so I would say the type of pipe used will depend on how the back-flow device is supported. I see lots of back-flows supported by PVC but they are small 3/4" devices. A larger, heavier device may need a metal pipe for support.

Technically, PVC is not approved for UV exposure.

Can brownline UV resistant PVC be used? If so, estimate of how long it would last if exposed to sunlight? Thanks!

You can always cover the exposed PVC, there are many coatings as well as paints available for this type of pipe.

The ones I see are normally in hot boxes to help prevent freezing. This also protects the pipe from the sun.

You can also use aluminum cladding to protect the PVC from UV light. This is normally done to protect insulated refrigeration lines. You should be able to find the aluminum at a refrigeration distributor.