Sizes of PVC Pipe Fittings

Buying PVC pipe and fittings is confusing! Use this guide to help you choose the right size.

Most Important Fact: PVC Pipe and fittings are identified by the Inside Diameter (ID) which is the "nominal" size.

However most novices think they should use the Outside Diameter (OD) to order pipe & parts. If you have done this, find your measurement in the right column of the our price charts. Now look to the left column to see the actual (nominal) size of pipe and fittings you buy.

Our PVC pipe is sold in sizes of 1/2", 3/4" 1", 1-1/4", 1-1/2", and 2". The "size" name for the pipe is based on the inside diameter of the pipe. But that is not to be taken as a precise measurement because there are different wall thicknesses, such as Schedule 40 pipe, Schedule 80 pipe and Class 200 pipe.

In all cases the name of the pipe roughly equals the inside diameter of the pipe. The only thing that changes is the wall thickness.
The outside diameter ALWAYS remains the same.

For instance, ALL 2" pipe (regardless if it is Schedule 40, Schedule 80 or Class 200) will always have an outside diameter (OD) of approximately 2-3/8" and it will fit into a 2" pvc pipe fitting.

All the pipe we sell is Schedule 40 high-gloss furniture-grade.

All you have to remember is 1-1/4" inch PVC pipe fits into 1-1/4" PVC pipe fittings, and 1" PVC pipe fits into 1" PVC pipe fittings, etc.