ductile iron pipe (DIP) generally range from $40 – $101.50 per foot, depending on thickness class, joint type, lining/coating and supplier. For example, Class 52 zinc-lined DIP is about $40.31/ft , while mechanical-joint 12 in. DIP can be $101.50/ft. Retail CL52 Tyton joint prices reach $99.50/ft , and wholesale bids by American Cast Iron Pipe, Core & Main, and Ferguson fall between $52.63 – $60.28/ft . Once installed, add roughly $8.40 – $24.00/ft for labor and trenching, bringing total installed costs close to $48 – $125 per foot for a 12 in.
1. Material Cost per Foot for 12 in. Ductile Iron Pipe
Price Comparison by Joint Type & Supplier
| Joint Type | Vendor / Source | Price per Foot (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Push-On (Tyton) | U.S. Pipe & Foundry (City of Tulsa bid) | $58.75 |
| Mechanical Joint | U.S. Pipe & Foundry (City of Tulsa bid) | $101.50 |
| Class 52, Zinc Lining | Fairfax Water (Class 52, Zinc) | $40.31 |
| Class 52, GFL & Zinc | Fairfax Water (Class 52, GFL & Zinc) | $40.31 |
| American Cast Iron Pipe (ACP) | Louisville Water (ACP bid) | $55.50 |
| Core & Main | Louisville Water (Core & Main bid) | $52.63 |
| Ferguson Waterworks | Louisville Water (Ferguson bid) | $60.28 |
| CL52 Tyton Joint (20 ft sticks) | A. Louis Supply | $99.50 |
| Kentucky-American Water Company | KAW Project bid | $40.00 |
2. Factors Affecting Material Cost
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Thickness Class (AWWA C151)
Higher classes (e.g. Class 52 vs. Class 53 or 350 psi) require thicker walls and thus higher steel weight per foot, driving up cost. -
Joint Type
Mechanical joints (MJ) and restrained joints cost more than simple push-on (Tyton) joints due to extra components and machining. -
Cement Mortar Lining & Coatings
Cement lining (AWWA C104) or polyethylene sleeving adds material and processing cost—typically 5 – 10 % extra. -
Supplier & Order Volume
Bulk municipal bids (e.g., Fairfax Water, Louisville Water) secure lower unit prices than small retail orders; minimum quantities and lead times also factor in. -
Regional & Market Variations
Geographic location, tariff fluctuations, and raw-material steel prices can sway costs by ± 15 – 20 %.
3. Installed Cost Estimate
When budgeting for 12 in. ductile iron pipe cost per foot including labor/trenching, add roughly $8.40 – $24.00 per linear foot to material costs.
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Typical total installed cost (material + installation): $48 – $125/ft depending on site conditions, depth, and contractor rates.
4. Cost Comparison by Diameter
| Nominal Size | Unit Price (per ft) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 4 in. | $22.71 | Fairfax Water, Class 52 Zinc |
| 6 in. | $17.97 | Fairfax Water, Class 52 Zinc |
| 8 in. | $24.44 | Fairfax Water, Class 52 Zinc |
| 10 in. | $32.01 | Fairfax Water, Class 52 Zinc |
| 12 in. | $40.31 | Fairfax Water, Class 52 Zinc |
5. FAQ
Q1: What is the average cost per foot for 12 in. ductile iron pipe?
Material alone typically ranges $40 – $101.50/ft, depending on joint and supplier.
Q2: Why does the 12 in. DIP price vary so much?
Variations stem from thickness class, joint type, lining/coating, order size, and regional factors.
Q3: How can I get the best price quote?
Specify nominal diameter, thickness class, joint style, lining, and quantity when soliciting bids from multiple reputable suppliers (e.g., Core & Main, Ferguson, A. Louis Supply).
Q4: Are there cheaper alternatives to ductile iron pipe?
Yes—PVC and HDPE pipes often cost $10 – $20 less per foot for similar sizes; see the JM Eagle cost comparison tool.
Q5: What other costs should I consider?
Shipping, taxes, and storage can add 10 – 20 % to base material prices, while special coatings or restraints incur further charges.