PVC follows iron pipe size (IPS), so it shares outside diameters with steel pipe of the same schedule. This chart gives Schedule 40 PVC outside and inside diameters.
| Nominal | OD (in) | Sch 40 ID |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 in | 0.840 | 0.602 |
| 3/4 in | 1.050 | 0.804 |
| 1 in | 1.315 | 1.029 |
| 1-1/2 in | 1.900 | 1.610 |
| 2 in | 2.375 | 2.067 |
| 3 in | 3.500 | 3.068 |
| 4 in | 4.500 | 4.026 |
Nominal is not the OD. Like steel, a 1-inch PVC pipe has a 1.315 in outside diameter. Schedule 80 has thicker walls and a smaller bore for higher pressure.
FAQ
Does PVC pipe come in the same sizes as PEX? PVC uses standard nominal pipe sizes similar to copper, but its wall thickness and actual inside diameter differ from both copper and PEX at the same nominal size, so always confirm actual dimensions when connecting different pipe materials. When transitioning between PVC and another pipe material, use a rated transition fitting rather than assuming a direct thread or slip match.
See the Pipe Schedule Chart and Pipe Thread Dimensions.