What is the difference between ring seal and solvent weld soil pipes?

Ring seal soil pipes and fittings are joined via a simple push fit using rubber seals, which allows for the joint to be taken apart easily if necessary. Solvent weld pipes on the other hand are joined using solvent cement which creates a permanent joint that cannot be undone. This joint is slightly stronger than that of ring seal joints, which is why solvent weld soil pipes are popular in applications where durability and impact resistance is essential.

Do you need a vent or air admittance valve on a soil pipe?

Yes, all soil pipe systems should be ventilated with either an air admittance valve, also known as a durgo valve, or a vent pipe that terminates above the roof level of the building. Ventilation is important because it balances the pressure within the pipes and prevents foul smelling odours from entering the building.

Can PVC and cast iron soil pipes be connected to each other?

Yes, PVC and cast iron soil pipes can be connected together with a universal ring seal adaptor. The bottom of the adaptor which has gripping rubber fins on the outside is pushed into the inside of the cast iron pipe and the other end of the adaptor is a standard push fit coupling that a 110mm PVC soil pipe is pushed into for a watertight fit.

What is the difference between soil and waste pipes?

A soil pipe is usually fitted vertically on the outside wall of a property and connects directly to the toilet to transport foul water into the drainage system. Waste pipes are much smaller in diameter to soil pipes and are connected to household appliances such as sinks, baths and washing machines. The other end of waste pipes are connected directly into the soil pipe of the property, so that wastewater from appliances is transported along with the toilet waste into the drainage system.

Soil Pipes and Fittings

We offer a wide range of soil pipe systems, all of which are robust, long-lasting and come from high-quality manufacturers. Our uPVC soil pipes and fittings from FloPlast can be purchased in a ring seal system where components can easily be fitted via a push-fit joint and taking the system apart is simple. We also supply solvent weld soil pipes for applications where a permanent joint via solvent cement is required.

To accommodate for heritage buildings and those seeking a more traditional appearance, cast iron soil pipes are available in a variety of styles, with the most popular being the cast iron push fit system. We also offer cast iron effect push fit soil, which can offer a cost-effective solution with a cast iron finish, but all the benefits of PVC

Efficiently managing wastewater and solid waste in homes and commercial applications is essential for the building’s plumbing system. Soil and waste pipes are critical components that ensure proper waste disposal while maintaining hygiene and safety.

Essential Fittings in a Soil Pipe System

Across all of the systems we offer, there are many soil pipe fittings that are key to the efficient and safe disposal of wastewater:

Soil stack pipe: A pipe that is installed vertically on the wall of the building which is designed to transport wastewater from the building into the underground drainage system. All soil and waste pipes that are used in the building are connected to the soil stack, making it a core component of soil and waste systems. They are also known as soil vent pipes and we offer soil stack kits that contain all of the fittings you need to construct one.
Air admittance valves: Also known as durgo valves, these fittings are installed at the top of a soil pipe. They are a one way valve that ensures the pressure within the soil pipe remains balanced by letting in air when necessary, without letting any foul odours out. We provide an in-depth explanation of these fittings in our how to use an air admittance valve guide.
Access pipe: An access pipe is an important fitting that is usually installed near ground level on a soil stack pipe. Its purpose is to grant easy access for inspection and cleaning of the inside of the pipe.
Pipe clips: Soil pipe clips are used to support the pipe and keep it securely fitted to the wall of the building. These clips are available in a standard variation as well as a socket version which is slightly larger and designed to fit around the socket parts of pipes and fittings. In a soil pipe system, clips should be fitted at 1.8 metre centres horizontally and 1 metre centres vertically.

Types of PVC Soil Pipe

uPVC soil pipes are the most popular soil pipe material in the current market. We stock them in both ring seal and solvent weld styles.

Ring seal: A push-fit system where components are simply joined together with a small amount of lubricant and can be easily disassembled. Push-fit soil pipes are available in five unique colours, including cast iron effect soil pipes.

Solvent weld: This system is the preferred option in applications where a permanent connection is required between all pipes and fittings. An example of this would be if a soil system is being installed somewhere where there is a possibility that the pipes and fittings may face impact.

For more information on our various soil products, check out the list of key articles below or feel free to contact our team: