How to Patch a Hole in a PVC Pipe

It is very aggravating and expensive to end up with a leak in your plumbing. Some leaks can't be fixed without a plumber, but if the leak is in straight pipe that you can get to and you don't want to replace the whole pipe, a patch can be applied to stop the leak and will cost less than $5 and a little time. It makes more sense to patch a hole in PVC pipe than to hire a plumber for the simple repairs.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• PVC pipe coupling
• PVC pipe glue
• Hacksaw
• Tape measure
• Shovel
• Pipe wrench
• Dry cloth

1. Determine the area where the leak is located. Dig up the dirt with the shovel until you reach the pipe. It may be necessary to dig more in a different direction until you actually see the leak. At this point, turn the water off at the water meter with the pipe wrench. Turn the valve that is located on the top of the meter itself in a clockwise motion to stop the water from running to the home.

2. Clear the dirt from around the leak approximately two feet in each direction and underneath the pipe. Keep this dirt in a mound as you will replace it when finished.

3. 
    
   PVC coupling

   Cut the leak out of the section of pipe with the hacksaw. Saw approximately three inches on either side of the leak to remove. Make sure your cuts are straight. Take this broken piece of pipe to the lumberyard and purchase a PVC coupling that fits the pipe. It is necessary to do this as PVC pipe comes in different sizes.

4. Clean the cut sections of the PVC pipe with the dry cloth to remove any mud, dirt or debris. A clean surface is necessary for the pipe glue to adhere correctly without small leaks in the coupling. Connect the coupling to the pipe sections to make sure it is the correct size and length.

5. Take the coupling back off and apply the PVC pipe glue in a circular motion completely around the outside of the sections of PVC pipe that will go into the coupling and around the inside circumference of the coupling itself. Attach the coupling onto each end of the sections of pipe, creating a new section of pipe. Allow to dry approximately 20-30 minutes.

6. Turn the water back on at the water meter and watch the pipe to make sure it is not leaking. If there are no leaks, cover the pipe back up with the dirt that was removed. If there is a leak, turn the water back off and repeat steps 3 through 5.

Tips & Warnings

• Make very sure the coupling is the right size and the glue is dry so as to prevent having to redo the repair.

Resources

• PVC Pipe Supplies