Just wondering what the differences are between ABS and PVC pipes, other than the color?

Why is ABS almost always used for drains?

Thanks ;)

Just wondering what the differences are between ABS and PVC pipes, other than the color?

Why is ABS almost always used for drains?

Thanks ;)

We stopped using ABS here in the Tampa Bay Area over 30 years ago. PVC is stronger and holds up better then ABS. ABS is used exclusively for drainage because it can't be used for anything else, (you can't water pipe with ABS). Let me tell you a little about plastic pipes.
There are four types of plastic in general use. Black plastic, which is ABS,(Acylonitrile Butadine Styrene) and white plastic which is PVC and CPVC,(Polyvinyl Chloride and Chlornated Polyvinyl Chloride) ABS is used for drainage. PVC is used outside the house for cold water feed from the pump or the meter Also drainage both inside and outside the house. CPVC is rated for both hot and cold lines and can be used to plumb a house on the inside and then we have Polybutylene pipe,(PB or Polly Pipe) which is flexible tubing on water piping. Hope this answers you question. Tom

Hope this answers you question
More than I had anticipated.

Thank you very much, Tom.
This place is great! ;)

Oh, one more question. OK to mix them, i.e.. a PVC pipe to an ABS pipe? I'm pretty sure I've read before that it is OK, but I'd like to confirm it.

Thanks.

More than I had anticipated.

Thank you very much, Tom.
This place is great! ;)

Oh, one more question. OK to mix them, ie., a PVC pipe to an ABS pipe? I'm pretty sure I've read before that it is OK, but I'd like to confirm it.

Thanks.

Our local code prohibits the commingling of PVC and ABS. However it's done sometimes with sewer pipes from the house to the street. Note: You must use primer and Oatie PVC & ABS Cement to insure of a good glue joint.
Cheers, Tom

Info assimilated.

Thanks Tom. ;)