Use of white PVC in above ground irrigation system

Our HOA has a 30 year old irrigation system that is galvanized pipe which was installed above ground. It is beginning to fail and our HOA has to explore replacing it in the future. One homeowner contacted the Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association (PPFA) and inquired about using white PVC pipe in an above ground installation. Their response was that it is acceptable but should be coated with a latex, UV inhibitor paint stating that it will last a long time.

Local distributors have told me that this is not a good practice in So. California and, if we wanted to replace the system with another above ground pipe, we should use Brownline pipe which was developed specially for above ground irrigation systems.

Can anyone tell me if they have used the white, coated PVC or Brownline pipe in an above ground installation and what their results have been. This is going to be a big investment and we have to be prudent with our funds but we need to explore all options. Thank you

Hi Greg:

Welcome to HOATalk.

If you want above ground then you potentially should consider what your numerous local distributors or any irrigation installation companies recommend. If you consider PVC then you need to consider the additional cost of trenching and burying the pipe. PVC will sun rot and become brittle. My concern with painting PVC (which I have never heard of before) is it then becomes a potential timely or costly maintenance upkeep feature. So questions would be how often does it need repainting, how long would the task take each time, and how much would it cost? Keep in mind what may cost less up front might cost a lot more in the long run.

Unpainted PVC pipe exposed to direct sunlight will eventually turn brown or black and become brittle. Painting will improve its lifespan but add to your maintenance woes, as previously noted.

This sounds like a do-it-yourself project being undertaken by inexperienced people. Call a landscape or irrigation company and get their recommendations. You can still do it yourselves if you insist, but remember that when you do it yourself you also accept all the liability that comes with the job. There is no reason why the homeowners should not be paying a professional to get the job done correctly.

Typically those with short range views (vs. long range views) about finances are those who may be moving in the next x years and therefore, want to keep costs low. When this happens, the Board needs to usually "Sell" the preferred approach as a way of keeping costs low or keeping the amenities in proper working order so buyers are attracted to the area.

Greg,

The long term maintenance issues are what will kill the HOA by going cheap, up front, against the recommendations of local distributors (emphasis on plural distributors if I read your post correctly).

Pay more up front for the brown pipe.