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How to choose irrigation pipes: the different types

There isn't just one irrigation hose, but a specific range for every need in different garden areas. Underground irrigation systems use rigid pipes to be buried, while micro-irrigation systems terminate in small flexible tubes.

Traditional irrigation hoses are made of flexible PVC, sometimes reinforced with internal meshes to improve resistance to pressure and torsion.

For vegetable gardens and hedges, micro-perforated hoses can be useful, which release water gradually into the soil, avoiding waste and excess water.

In recent years, new hoses have emerged as a result of technological evolution: expandable hoses and ultra-lightweight hoses.

Expandable Hose:

Expandable hoses are able to extend under water pressure; when the faucet is turned off, the hose retracts. This feature makes them easier to roll up and store, especially in small gardens and on terraces. The hoses can be extended up to three times their original length: a 2.5-meter hose becomes 7.5 meters when pressurized, and shrinks back to a minimum when irrigation is interrupted. A real convenience for terraces and those with limited space to store tools.

Superlight Hose:

The superlight hose are made of a special structure that makes them more manageable and easier to transport than normal reinforced tubes: they weigh half as much as traditional reinforced tubes!

The main characteristics of a tube

Irrigation hoses must meet certain quality criteria, necessary to ensure the product's durability and safety. They are exposed to the elements, from summer sunlight to winter frost, and are subject to a variety of stresses, such as water flow, traction, scratches, or twisting. Let's look at the main characteristics of an irrigation hose!

Construction materials. A good irrigation hose is made of high-quality materials, with virgin plastics that guarantee flexibility, durability, and resistance to external agents.

Non-toxicity. Hoses bring water to our garden, and our children and pets often drink directly from the garden hose. It is essential that the hose is free of harmful chemicals that could contaminate the water and damage plants. In particular, they must be free of phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is a chemical compound found in many plastics and resins, used in everyday products such as plastic bottles, food containers, can liners, and even thermal receipts. As an endocrine disruptor, it can alter the hormonal system in humans and animals, with potential health effects including hormonal disruptions, an increased risk of obesity and diabetes, and an impact on the cardiovascular system and brain development.

Weight. Modern ultra-lightweight tubes are easier to handle and transport, while still being robust and resistant to everyday wear and tear.

Flexible and kink-resistant. Irrigation hoses must perform a dual function: they must be "solid" to withstand water pressure, without swelling or breaking, but at the same time they must be flexible and easy to roll up. Modern hoses are kink-resistant and kink-resistant! This prevents the hose from becoming kinked during use, ensuring a continuous flow of water.

Resistance. A garden irrigation hose is subjected to a wide range of stresses. It must withstand mechanical stress, such as traction or impact, without breaking or tearing. It must resist breakage if it comes into contact with sharp objects, such as stones or garden tools. Since it is exposed to the outdoors, it must be UV-resistant, ensuring all its properties remain intact even after years of outdoor use. It must tolerate cold without breaking and heat without deforming. Finally, the hose's surface must be resistant to chemicals without deteriorating, as it often comes into contact with fertilizers or chemical pesticides in the garden.

Diameter. Irrigation pipes can have different diameters, although they all have standard sizes. Larger pipes are used for underground irrigation systems, while very small pipes are used for drip irrigation.