Why is PVC pipe the right material for water and sanitary and storm sewer utilities? Today, I'd like to cover some key advantages for using PVC, and why it's been approved for use for decades. 

PVC pipes have been used in the U.S. since the 1960s. It is made from a vinyl chloride monomer mixed with additives and modifiers to make a compound. This compound is then extruded into different sizes and shapes, including solid wall and corrugated profiles. PVC has been proven for multiple applications over the years for its unique strength, joint integrity, and corrosion resistant properties.

Where are you buying structural backfill these days? Is what you need readily available, or are you looking outside your area and/or waiting an extended time for delivery? With available land space continuing to decrease, stormwater detention/retention is commonly being designed underground. The current construction boom and increasing detention volume requirements have made rock scarce and expensive in many parts of the country. Rock, gravel, and other aggregates suitable for utilization as structural backfill require extraction, transportation, and availability in the area of the job site, placing increased pressure on quarries near developing areas that may struggle to meet the demand. Engineers, developers and contractors are all asking, “How can we eliminate or reduce the amount of rock required on underground detention systems?”