How PVC Saddle Tees Work
A PVC saddle tee fits around the outside of an existing pipe and provides a perpendicular outlet for a new branch line. The saddle is secured to the pipe using bolts, and the joint is sealed with an o-ring gasket and PVC solvent cement. Once the saddle is in place, a hole is drilled through the saddle outlet into the main pipe to open the new branch connection. This method eliminates the need to cut into or remove any section of the existing line, saving significant time and labor on both new installations and retrofits.
Schedule 40 vs. Schedule 80
Schedule 40 PVC Saddle Tees are the standard choice for low- to medium-pressure applications such as irrigation, landscaping, pool plumbing, and general water distribution. Schedule 40 PVC is corrosion resistant, lightweight, and suitable for burial. These saddles work well for systems that do not require heavy-duty pressure handling.
Schedule 80 PVC Saddle Tees have thicker walls and are built for higher-pressure and more demanding environments. They are commonly used in industrial piping, chemical handling, water treatment, and commercial mechanical systems where the line may carry corrosive fluids or operate at elevated pressures. Schedule 80 saddles are the better choice any time system reliability and pressure rating are priorities.
Sizing
Each PVC saddle tee is listed with two measurements. The first (larger) number is the outside diameter of the main pipe the saddle will clamp onto. The second (smaller) number is the size of the new branch outlet. For example, a 4" x 2" saddle fits a 4" main pipe and provides a 2" branch connection.
Main pipe sizes: 2" through 12"
Branch outlet sizes: 1/2" through 6"
We carry a wide range of main-to-branch size combinations within those ranges. If you do not see the exact combination you need, contact us.
Saddle Styles
Clamp-on saddle tees wrap fully around the existing pipe and are secured with stainless steel or zinc bolts. This is the most reliable style and is recommended for high-pressure systems and permanent installations.
Snap-on saddle tees clip onto the pipe without fully wrapping around it. These are convenient when access to the back side of the pipe is limited, such as in trenches or wall cavities. Snap-on saddles are best suited for lower-pressure systems.
Both styles are installed using PVC primer and solvent cement to bond the saddle to the pipe. For clamp-on models, the included bolts and o-ring gasket provide additional sealing and mechanical strength.
Common Applications
- Irrigation system expansion and repair
- Adding branch lines to buried pipelines
- Water treatment and distribution
- Industrial and chemical piping retrofits
- Pool and spa plumbing modifications
- Pressure gauge and sensor tap points
Why Buy from Commercial Industrial Supply?
We carry Spears PVC saddle tees in both Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 across a broad range of size combinations. Our product specialists can help you identify the correct saddle for your pipe size, schedule, and application. Wholesale pricing is available for contractors and bulk orders, and we return quotes within one business day. Call (866) 777-8001 or submit a quote request online.
Are you ready to buy or need assistance selecting the correct products? If so, speak with one of our experienced product specialists by calling (866) 777-8001 or complete our easy to use Price Quote Form!