Separating PVC Plumbing

PVC pipes that are glued cannot be separated.

PVC is a strong plastic substance used in plumbing throughout the world for its price as well as its durability. Although PVC is very strong and unlikely to break for several years, you may need to replace the pipes when they are leaking. PVC is joined in one of two ways: with a compression fitting or with PVC glue. A compression fitting allows you to unscrew the pipe and remove it. Pipes that are glued together cannot be separated and must be cut out.

Things You'll Need

• Marker
• Hacksaw
• Blade holder
• Bucket
• Deburring tool
• PVC primer
• PVC glue
• PVC pipe

Instructions

1. Mark the pipe at the fitting with a marker to give you a location to begin your cut.

2. Slide a hacksaw blade into a blade holder.

3. Set a bucket underneath the fitting.

4. Set the blade holder on the mark by the PVC fitting.

5. Cut all the way through the pipe to loosen it from the joint.

6. Cut through the pipe holding the other end of the joint in place and remove it. Take the fitting with you to the hardware store to find a suitable replacement.

7. Slide a deburring tool along the inside of the pipe to remove any PVC flakes from the pipe.

8. Dry fit the pieces together to find the correct orientation for the pipes.

9. Apply a layer of PVC primer with a small brush along the edge of the pipe to clean it.

10. Apply PVC glue to the end of the pipe with a small brush and stick it into the joint. Turn the pipe one-quarter turn while pushing it into the joint to ensure the glue is making a tight connection. Work quickly because the glue sets quickly.

References

• This Old House: Ungluing PVC
• This Old House: How to Repair a PVC Sink Trap