No matter what kind of construction you do, you can a find plastic pipe that's right for the job. Whether you're looking for plastic water pipe or corrugated plastic pipe for drainage, there's plastic piping and the appropriate plastic pipe fittings available.

Today’s choice of plastic pipes usually involves some type of high-density polyethylene plastic (HDPE) pipe. You can expect a long life from HDPE plastic pipe, as it’s highly resistant to corrosion. HDPE plastic pipe can serve as plastic drainage pipe as well as plastic irrigation pipe. HDPE plastic pipe can also offer good savings over metal pipe, which helps save the bottom line on a project.

As you determine what you need from a plastic pipe, here are some specs to consider:

1. Plastic pipes can be either rigid or flexible.

2. You may need black plastic pipe, clear plastic pipe or some other color, depending on your application.

3. Choose between underground plastic pipe or pipe suitable for aboveground use.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get the specs on the plastic pipes you need for your project

Manufacturers of plastic pipes should adhere to the standards set down by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). With those guidelines in hand, you can use plastic piping material from different manufacturers and not worry about compatibility.

I recommend: Plastinetics Inc. offers a full line of plastic piping that meets ASTM code. You can also find a full range of products at Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company.

Find a reliable supplier of plastic pipes

Time is money, and you want a reputable dealer who ships products on time at a reasonable price. Whether you purchase your plastic piping locally or order it online, the same standard should apply.

I recommend: The FW Webb Utilities Supply Company, or USCO, has a broad selection and emphasizes its extremely high fill rate. The United States Plastic Corporation can supply plastic pipes and plastic pipe fittings to your business in a timely fashion.

Order custom plastic piping, if necessary

Even with the wide range of plastic piping available in standard sizes, it's not uncommon for businesses to supply custom plastic piping and plastic pipe fittings. Whether you want a particular size or color of plastic pipe, there are companies that can manufacture it to your specifications.

I recommend: Crescent Plastics, Inc. specializes in making custom plastic piping material. Available Plastics, Inc. can also make plastic piping in any size and color you need. They can even custom-bend plastic pipe to meet your specifications.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're using plastic pipes for plumbing purposes, you must use rigid chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) or flexible polybutylene (PB) pipes. These two materials can withstand hot water under pressure. No other plastic piping material can do that.