PVC pipe isn’t just for plumbing anymore. This sturdy, affordable material can be a DIYer’s best friend for many household projects. In the video above, Jen Largesse from House One shows off several smart ways to put PVC pipes to work to solve a variety of household problems. Keep in mind that PVC isn’t the most eco-friendly material out there, but reusing it for these projects can help extend its life and cut down on waste. Let’s dive into some creative ways to use PVC pipe to make your life a little easier.
Creative PVC Home Hacks
PVC pipe is tough, cheap, and easy to work with, making it perfect for DIY projects. Here are some clever ways to use it around your home:
1. Leaf Collection System
Here are some nifty ways to make your fall yard cleanup easier and more efficient:
- Cut and assemble PVC pipe into a rectangular frame.
- Wrap and clamp a large garbage bag around the opening.
- Use the frame upright for filling with leaves or on its side as a makeshift dustpan for your rake.
2. DIY Storage Solutions
These homemade containers are great for organizing your workshop or garage. They’re especially handy for keeping long, skinny things like drill bits or pencils neat and easy to find. Here’s how to transform PVC into customized storage:
- Cap one end of a PVC pipe.
- Fill it with nails, screws, or other small hardware.
- Cap the remaining side.
- Add a label for easy ID and organization.
3. Cord Management
Use PVC piping to organize cords and cables to prevent them from tangling and keep your space neat. This also helps reduce tripping hazards and protects the cords from damage. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut a piece of PVC conduit to the desired length.
- Thread cords through the pipe.
- Place the pipe behind furniture or along baseboards and secure it.
4. Toy Organization
In addition to storing tools, you can also use PVC pipes to organize children’s toys. Cut lengths of PVC pipe and mount them on the wall or inside a closet to create custom holders for toy cars, action figures, or dolls. This makes it easy for kids to find their toys and put them away, keeping play areas tidy. Let the kids paint or decorate their new PVC pipe storage with non-toxic paints for extra fun.
PVC Pipe for Home Improvement Projects
PVC pipe can be a handy tool for all sorts of home improvement jobs. Check out these practical ideas:
5. Vacuum Hose Extension
This simple hack helps you vacuum tight spaces, high ceilings, or other hard-to-reach areas without straining any muscles or using a ladder. Here’s how to extend your vacuum’s reach with PVC pipe:
- Find a 1½-inch-diameter PVC tube.
- Duct tape it to the end of your vacuum hose.
- Use the extended hose to clean tight areas.
6. Foundation Water Diversion
Protect your home’s foundation from water damage with this smart use of PVC pipe. This setup helps channel water away from your home’s foundation, which can prevent water damage and keep your basement dry. This Old House expert landscape contractor Roger Cook shows how to DIY a backyard drainage solution:
- Attach a perforated 4-inch-diameter PVC tube to the end of a downspout.
- Lay the tube in a shallow trench lined with plastic sheeting.
- Cover the tube with gravel.
7. Plant Watering System
Create a DIY irrigation system for your potted plants to keep them properly watered even when you’re away:
- Drill small holes spaced several inches apart along a length of small PVC pipe.
- Place the perforated tube into a potted plant.
- Add water to the tube for a slow, even soak.
8. Garden Trellis
Build a sturdy trellis for your climbing plants or veggies using PVC pipes and fittings. Just put them together to make a frame, then stick it in the ground next to your garden beds. This will give your plants something to climb on, keeping them healthy and well-supported.
PVC Pipe for DIY Tools and Gadgets
PVC pipe is great for making your own custom tools. Read below for some ideas:
9. DIY C-Clamps
These homemade clamps are perfect for light-duty tasks and can be customized to any size you need. Here’s how to make your own low-force clamps:
- Cut a slot along the length of a PVC pipe.
- Cut the slotted pipe into sections.
- Use these sections as clamps to hold down protective coverings on work surfaces.
10. PVC Pipe Organizers
Create custom organizers for storing items like wrapping paper and garden tools, or even as a vertical planter for herbs:
- Cut PVC pipes to the length you want.
- Arrange and glue them together to make compartments.
- Mount the structure on a wall or inside a cabinet.
11. Temporary Clothesline
Make a portable clothesline that is perfect for small spaces or when you need extra drying space:
- Create an A-frame structure with PVC pipes and fittings.
- Attach a line between the two sides.
- Use it indoors or outdoors to dry clothes.
12. Shoe Rack
Make a shoe rack by cutting PVC pipes to the same length and stacking them in a pyramid. Glue the pipes together and put it in your entryway or closet. This DIY shoe rack will keep your shoes organized and easy to grab.
Environmental Considerations for PVC Pipe
While PVC pipe is quite useful, it’s important to think about its impact on the environment:
Recyclability
Unfortunately, PVC pipe isn’t widely recyclable in the U.S. Most recycling centers don’t take it because of its chemical makeup and how hard it is to process.
Disposal
When disposing of PVC pipe, check with your local waste management facility for proper disposal methods. Some areas may have special collection events for construction materials.
Alternatives
For a more environmentally conscious project, here are some PVC alternatives that would work just as well but are easier to recycle.
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) pipe
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) pipe
- Copper pipe (for plumbing applications)
Reducing Waste
To minimize the environmental impact even further, try to use PVC pipe efficiently and reuse it when you can. This can help cut down on how much PVC ends up in landfills. You could also consider donating extra PVC pipe to local schools or community centers for their projects.