what is useful life of pvc?

Got a big yard with lots of pvc piping in it. We've owned it for 15 yrs, and the sprinkler system was in it when we bought it. The house itself dates back to '65.

Lately, we've been seeing a marked increase in pvc splitting, breaking, etc. I wonder if we're sort of at the end of the useful life?

For sprinkler systems, what is the useful life of pvc? Does schedule matter? I would think not.

If I go back in with a whole new system: would I be better off with poly or pvc? Winters are not a big problem, but I think poly would bend a bit better.

 

If you can find a legible piece, look to see if they used Schedule 20 or 40. Some time back the use of Schedule 20 was done to save money. Well, initially it did, but as you can see, it will cost more to replace it than it would have to do it right with stouter product. I think Poly would be a better, more flexible product for underground purposes. Our plumber guys will chime in to give their opinions and advice, so hang in there.

 

Presuming you do replace, I'd certainly recommend poly. So much easier and quicker to install than glued PVC.

Depending on the size of your yard and sprinkler head locations, it may be easier to hire a company to install the piping using a vibratory plow (I think that's what it's called). It's a machine that sinks the poly pipe while only cutting a thin strip in your lawn. It'll be more expensive than a ditch witch, but it's a whole lot easier to fix the lawn afterward.

 

rbig - Your post doesn't give your location, but you might want to determine if you really need a sprinkler system.

 

We need one as we're out of town a lot. This way the lawn can stay watered. Our son lives across the street, and can watch us for broken sprinklers, etc.