The Advantage of Corrugated Pipe Over PVC Pipe: A Real-Life Example in Charlotte, NC

When it comes to choosing between corrugated pipe and PVC pipe for your yard drainage system, one key advantage of corrugated pipe stands out: its resilience and ability to stay in the ground even when damaged or pulled in one location. This feature can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches during repairs or unexpected incidents.

In a recent project, we encountered a situation that perfectly illustrated this benefit. During the installation of pool equipment, an excavator unintentionally damaged our drainage system. This system was built using double-wall corrugated pipe. Now, here's where corrugated pipe really proves its worth.

As the excavator pulled on the damaged section of the pipe, the corrugations in the ground prevented the entire system from being uprooted. Instead of pulling up the whole drainage line, the pipe broke at the damaged section, leaving the rest of the system intact. If we had used PVC pipe in this scenario, the outcome would have been far different. The smooth wall of PVC would have allowed the excavator to yank up the entire system, potentially causing extensive damage that would require replacing long sections of the pipe.

This situation highlighted another important aspect of corrugated pipe, specifically N12 pipe, which is known for its strength. While it can break under the force of an excavator, its design prevents it from being pulled through the soil when properly installed. The corrugations lock it in place, minimizing back-and-forth motion and securing the system in the ground.

In contrast, PVC pipe's smooth surface and lack of corrugations make it more susceptible to being pulled up when damaged, leading to more extensive repairs and higher costs.

In summary, while both corrugated and PVC pipes have their uses, corrugated pipe offers a distinct advantage in maintaining the integrity of your drainage system during unexpected incidents. Its ability to stay grounded, even when damaged, makes it a cost-effective and reliable choice for yard drainage projects.

This real-world example underscores the importance of selecting the right materials for your drainage system, especially when considering the potential for future disruptions. For DIYers looking to install a robust and resilient drainage system, corrugated pipe might just be the smarter choice.