Subsurface drainage systems often employ ridged PVC pipe, or Flexible, black corrugated pipe. We have always preferred to use ridged PVC pipe for our designs for a number of reasons. Because PVC is ridged, it is much easier to achieve a constant slope in an underground pipe. PVC pipe is smooth on the inside which allows for a greater flow velocity in any given size diameter pipe. PVC can also be easily cleaned with plumbing snakes should that ever become necessary. Corrugated pipe, on the other hand is rough inside and difficult or impossible to clean without damaging.

While corrugated pipe is always less expensive to purchase, a system that utilizes smooth PVC pipe will last much longer than the alternative from the big box store above. Corrugated pipe is easier to install because long rolls require fewer couplings, but is not able to prevent "ups and downs" in the run which will soon become filled with sediment. This inevitable sediment buildup will soon restrict the flow of the system down to zero. To add insult to injury, corrugated pipe can not be effectively "snaked" without causing rupture to the thin, corrugated walls that are easily pierced by the cleaning process.

"There is scarcely anything in the world that some man cannot make a little worse, and sell a little more cheaply. The person who buys on price alone is this man's lawful prey" John Ruskin

Underground work is not an area to skimp on materials or design as changing these items once they are found to be faulty often results in a total loss of the original project.