Which is better – ABS pipe or PVC plastic pipe?
Follow our step-by-step guidelines for choosing either abs pipe or pvc pipe for your plumbing project
Which is better – ABS pipe or PVC plastic pipe?
When it comes to longevity, there isn’t any reason to choose one over the other. If you install them right, either black or white plastic pipe will remain in service a lot longer than you will.
So how do you choose? First, check with your building inspector. A few local building codes allow only PVC (white) or only black ABS. That doesn’t make sense, but it doesn’t matter; comply or else.
If code allows both PVC and ABS, make a pass through the plumbing aisle at your favorite home center. Even if the store carries both PVC drain pipe and black ABS, you’ll probably find that it stocks a much wider selection of fittings for one of the types. A big selection makes your plumbing life easier.
If code and selection turn out to be nonfactors, go with ABS black plumbing pipe, which is a little easier to work with. Unlike PVC drain pipe, which requires purple primer and cement, ABS black plumbing pipe is joined with cement only. ABS black plumbing pipe is also easier to cut and a bit more flexible.
If, for any reason, you need to join one to the other during a remodeling project, don’t just cement the two together. Instead, use a rubber transition coupling with stainless steel clamps.