PVC, or PolyVinylChloride, is the synthetic polymer used to manufacture the wide array of landscape supplies known as PVC fittings and PVC pipe. Though it was developed in 1872, it was not patented or used until the beginning of the 20^th century. The first PVC patent came to be in 1913 by a German inventor named Friedrich Klatte. Klatte came up with the process through which PVC could be made, using vinyl chloride and sunlight. In the 1920's another scientist by the name of Walter Semon took Klatte's research further, plasticizing PVC for use as a solid. This plasticized form of PVC became a substitute for natural rubber, helping ease the US dependence on limited rubber resources.

In the 1950's PVC was introduced into the landscape supply industry. PVC pipe replaced metal piping as the dominant landscape supply due to its non-corrosive nature and easy installation. The industry grew rapidly as PVC became the cost effective landscape supply alternative. The benefits of PVC pipes were realized in its physical properties. Metal-based irrigation and landscape supplies had for years been susceptible to earthquakes and bacteria. PVC's flexible properties make it the irrigation supply of choice in earthquake prone areas. In addition, its smooth walls give bacteria very little purchase making PVC Pipe the method of choice for drinking water systems, irrigation systems, and water disposal systems.

Not only did PVC replace metal as a landscape supply, it can also be used as an alternative to wood! It is to start using PVC for your basic construction needs or do-it-yourself project, regardless of whether you are a landscaper or a home handyman!