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When it comes to DIY projects or small home repairs in Northern Mindanao cities like Cagayan De Oro, understanding PVC pipes is essential. Affordable, easy to work with, and install, they are perfect for common household plumbing. Whether you use it to fix leaks or install whole new water lines, our guide will break down the basics so you can buy the right materials and install them safely.

What are PVC Pipes and Why They’re Common in Filipino Homes

 

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) pipes are lightweight, durable, and don’t rust. This makes them ideal for the humid climate in the Philippines. They’re also easy to cut, budget-friendly, and widely available in hardware stores across CDO and Northern Mindanao. These make them the preferred material for piping for homeowners and construction professionals.

 

 

Types of PVC Pipes Used in the Philippines

 

These are the types of PVC pipes you’ll commonly find in hardware stores. Regular PVC pipes are the most widely used, but other types may be more suitable depending on the specific application.

• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – Best for drainage, vents, and low-pressure lines. Its lightweight, making it easy to transport and install, but it can crack easily if dropped or stepped on. Ideal for use when long distances are involved.

• uPVC (Unplasticized PVC) – Harder and more rigid. They are commonly used for cold-water supply lines. They also have excellent electrical protection qualities but are weaker to temperature fluctuations than CPVC pipes.

• CPVC (Chlorinated PVC) – Internal and external corrosion resistant. These factors mean that the pipe will need less maintenance when installed for plumbing, particularly in soil.

• PPR (Polypropylene Random) – Heat resistant up to 95 °C short-term, environmentally friendly, and corrosion resistant. Typically used for water supply and drainage lines. More premium in price and weak to UV light or consistent temperature of 60 °C under long exposure. Typically installed by professionals using heat welding instead of glue.

PVC Pipe Sizes and Their Uses

 

PVC pipe sizes in the Philippines are measured by diameter, usually in inches. The most common sizes include:

• ½ inch – For faucets, small supply lines, and short connections.

• ¾ inch – Often used for main supply lines coming from water tanks.

• 1 inch – For bigger water lines or small outdoor plumbing.

• 2 inches and above – Typically for drainage, gutter systems, or waste lines.

In general, smaller diameters are for water supply. Larger ones are for drainage.

 

PVC Fittings Every Construction Professional Should Know

 

Fittings connect, extend, or redirect pipe sections. Some essential ones include:

• Elbows (90°/45°) – For sharp turns in supply or drainage lines.

• Tees and Wyes – For branching water or drainage connections. Tees are used to connect perpendicular lines, whilst wyes can branch 2 pipes to 1 or vice-versa.

• Couplings – To join two straight pipe sections. 

• Reducers – To transition between larger and smaller pipes.

• Adapters (Male/Female) – For connecting PVC to threaded faucets or metal pipes.

Using the right fitting prevents leaks and blockages while keeping water flowing smoothly.

 

 

How to Choose the Right PVC Pipe and Fittings

 

For most applications, a regular PVC pipe in the correct size will be sufficient. However, consider the following factors to determine whether you’ll need a more specific type with greater thickness.

• Pressure rating (PSI) – Choose pipes with a higher PSI for supply lines to withstand strong water flow, especially if your home uses a jet pump or a deep well system.

• Pipe schedule or thickness – Thicker pipes (like Schedule 80) offer better durability and are ideal for long-term or outdoor installations exposed to heat.

• Application – Drainage lines don’t need high-pressure pipes, while water supply lines require sturdier materials to prevent bursting.

• Local water source – Homes using pumps or elevated tanks in CDO and Northern Mindanao often experience fluctuating pressure, so the stronger, more rigid uPVC is essential.

• Environmental exposure – If sections of the pipe will be exposed to sun or rain, choose UV-resistant or heavier-grade pipes.

Remember to choose a PVC pipe with the proper pressure rating to ensure long-term reliability.

How to Properly Install PVC Pipes at Home

 

For basic installations, follow these simple steps:

1. Clean both the pipe and fitting using a cloth to remove dust, oil, or residue that can weaken the bond.

2. Apply PVC primer or cleaner if recommended, especially for thicker joints; this softens the material for better fusion.

3. Add PVC solvent cement evenly around the joint and avoid applying too much, as excess glue can weaken the connection.

4. Push and twist the pipe into the fitting for a tight seal to ensure the alignment is correct before the cement sets.

5. Hold for a few seconds, then allow it to cure fully, usually 10–15 minutes for small pipes and longer for bigger diameters.

For outdoor or long pipe runs, support the pipes with brackets or clips to prevent sagging. With the right technique, your project can last for years without leaks. 

Note: Do not use this method for PPR pipes (a type of pipe similar to PVCs). PPR pipes are usually done by professionals using a different method.

 

 

Final Thoughts

 

Safe and proper PVC pipe installation requires good planning and careful execution, Choose the right type of pipe for the job and install it using the steps we outlined. This valuable skill will serve both DIYers and construction professionals well.

We hope this guide has helped you learn about PVC pipes. For additional assistance, contact our team at Mackun Hardware.

 

Check out our wide assortment of tools, pipes, and materials here.

 

For inquiries and orders you may visit or contact us:

Address: RW Building, Sergio Osmeña Street Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental 9000

Contact No. : +63 956 037 2805