Here were talking about flex PVC, rigid PVC, and black polyethylene (sprinkler pipe) the biggest downfall or poly is that the joints are clamped and require mechanical fastening. It's also not rated for crush strength as is schedule 40. Drive your truck over a piece of or sched40 pvc and then over a piece of black poly. Theres a reason black poly is extremely rare to use in new pool construction nowadays
Plumbing Question: Rigid PVC vs Flex PVC
- Thread starter TKpoolOH
- Start date
Yes there is a reason but what is it? In guessing guys just don't like dealing with the barbed fittings. But I'd really like to know the real reason as im not in the industry.
I haven't done it but I'd expect sch40 pvc to shatter if driven over by a truck sitting on the ground.
Btw. PEX is crosslinked polyethylene.
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Black poly isn't pex. The reason is because its mechanically connected not solvent welded. You can put enormous weight on schd40 PVC. I can step on black ploy and crush it
CJadamec
TFP Expert
Black poly has been used for decades in underground installations. Its used for well pipe all the time.
I have black poly pipe run under my driveway for my well. It hasn't been crushed yet.
Again each material has it purpose and intended use.
Black poly is a challenge to work with in bigger 1.5" and 2" sizes. The metal fittings are significantly more expensive than PVC fittings.
I would say the reason you didn't see it used on pools is because there are cheaper and easier alternatives.
Time and money again are driving the choice of material.
