Drip Tape vs. Drip Line, What’s the Difference?

More from the Landscaping Gallery

Drip tape acts the same as a drip line in a drip irrigation system. Drip tape, however, is sold flat and in very long rolls (often in several thousand feet). The drippers, or emitters, are sometimes welded or otherwise pre-attached in the factory at specific intervals (usually 8-24"). Drip line is typically made of thin-walled but somewhat rigid polyethylene plastic tubing.

Drip tape can be installed above or below ground, but underground installations should be reserved for thicker walled tapes. Wall thickness ranges from 4 to 25 mils. Drip tape diameters range from 1/2" all the way to 1-3/8". Drip tape is sometimes made to be disposable, especially the thinner, small-diameter products, but be aware that drip tape is recyclable.

It should also be noted that the terms "drip line," "dripperline," and "drip tape" are often used interchangeably by retailers and installers. So be sure to either be clear about what you're referring to or have a visual example at hand.

Drip Line / Drip Tape / Soaker Hose