Warning: These plastic conduit runs are not as tough as the old metal ones we used to swear by.

I was on a job last week replacing some old conduit. Back in the day, we often used metal for its strength. Now, everything is PVC since it costs less and goes in quick. But I've seen it crack in cold weather after just a few seasons. Remember how metal would last decades with no problems? Makes me think if we're skipping quality for speed. Sure, plastic is lighter, but is it worth the extra service calls?

2 comments

2 Comments

wright.nina1d ago

My brilliant plan to use PVC backfired when a cold snap turned it into brittle spaghetti (I'm still finding pieces in the mulch). It's crazy how fast it fails compared to the old metal runs that outlive most warranties. Sure, plastic goes in quick, but you're basically scheduling your own callback for a few years down the line. The upfront savings look good until you're doing the job twice in half the time.

diana8296h ago

Back when I replaced my porch light, the plastic housing was brittle from sun exposure. It crumbled in my hands when I tried to clean it. The old metal fixture from the 70s was still in perfect shape, just tarnished. That kind of thing makes you question modern materials. We keep hearing about advances, but some stuff just doesn't last. It's not just conduit, it's all over the house.