Can I bury poly tubing for a sprinkler system?

Question

I am trying to install a sprinkler system and I am confused on the different types of pipe. I live in an area in the north that has a frost depth of 3ft. and understand that it is better to use poly pipe for that climate. I was looking at the DIG poly pipe with a 1/2 in diameter to run from the valves to the sprinkler heads. The guys at Home Depot told me that I shouldn't bury that kind of pipe, that I should run it above ground, and use solid PVC for underground.

However, every book and website I've read, suggests either as an option. Basically, I don't have a truck to carry 20' pieces of PVC and I am planning to redo the landscape in 2-3 years so Poly pipe seems to be the best solution. Can I bury 1/2" poly tubing 6"-8" deep and use it in my sprinkler system (instead of PVC)?

-My PSI is 120 (I plan to put a pressure regulator on)

-My mainline (into the house) is 3/4"

Answer 1

As a professional jobbing gardener, I have had problems with piping and other ducting not being buried deep enough when digging (with spade, fork) I have swithced off cable TV & telephone lines in the past.

I would suggest protecting your 1/2in diam. poly pipe inside a wider diam. conduit to act and burying at your 3 feet depth.  

Answer 2

you can put either in the ground 6 to 8 inches.  The flexible poly is the better because it bends to where you want t to go without 60 and 90 fittings etc. It all goes in a lot faster and neater.

If you are concerned about freezing during the winter then you blow it out with air before the cold weather sets in.

Theres plenty of information on the internet to help you

install it.

good luck.

Answer 3

In Australia polypipe is used everywhere buried, for irrigation systems with no problems.