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The Different Colours of MDPE: What do they mean?

MDPE’s true colours: keeping your water and gas flowing safely

Published: 26th September 2025 - Updated: 29th September 2025

In this handy article, you'll learn everything you need to know about the colours of MDPE Pipe.

We hope this guide can answer your questions, but should you need further advice, please get in contact with us.

What is MDPE Pipe?

MDPE pipe is a versatile material commonly used for carrying potable water, distributing low-pressure gas, and supplying underground services thanks to its strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion. 

Blue MDPE

Blue MDPE pipe is specifically designed for the safe transport of potable (drinking) water. It is most commonly used for underground water service connections, taking mains water from the street supply into homes, commercial buildings, and other properties. Its strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion make it ideal for long-term underground use, ensuring a reliable and clean water supply. For more details, check out our MDPE Pipe Ultimate Guide!

Black MDPE

Black MDPE pipe is primarily used for non-potable water applications, including irrigation, agricultural water systems, industrial fluid transfer, and occasionally as a protective conduit for cables. It’s durable, flexible, and resistant to corrosion, making it well-suited for installations where the quality of drinking water isn’t required. It also has higher UV resistance than the blue pipe, making it preferable for lines that run above ground. For more details, check out our MDPE Pipe Ultimate Guide!

Yellow MDPE

Yellow MDPE pipe is used exclusively for low-pressure gas distribution. It is installed underground to safely carry natural gas or LPG from mains networks to domestic, commercial, and industrial properties. The bright yellow colour is a universal indicator of gas lines, so the colour helps ensure correct identification, prevent accidental damage and operator safety during installation and maintenance.

 

MDPE Barrier Pipe

MDPE barrier pipe is used to supply clean, safe drinking water through contaminated or brownfield land. Its special multi-layer construction prevents harmful substances in the soil from permeating the pipe, ensuring the water supply remains uncontaminated and compliant with strict UK water regulations. For more details, check out our MDPE Barrier Pipe Guide!

It is represented by a blue MDPE pipe with brown stripes.

MDPE Rainwater Pipe

MDPE rainwater pipe is used for harvesting, transporting, and storing rainwater in collection systems. It provides a durable and reliable way to move non-potable water from roofs or catchment areas into storage tanks for reuse in irrigation, washing, or other greywater applications. It is also referred to as greenstripe pipe and Eviro-Line.

It is represented by a black MDPE pipe with green stripes.

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