How to Remove a Cemented PVC Pipe

Cement used to bond PVC pipe goes beyond ordinary glue. The cement fuses the PVC pipe to the fitting in the installation process. PVC bonds are strong and they can not be broken apart and unlike copper piping, PVC connections can not be released with heat.

To remove a PVC pipe you will need to cut the pipe into manageable lengths with a PVC tubing cutter, reciprocating saw or hacksaw. Never apply heat or an open flame to PVC piping as it releases harmful fumes that will make you sick.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drain bucket
• PVC tubing cutter
• Pipe strapping
• Aviation snips
• Hammer
• 8-penny nails

1. Turn off the water supply to the pipe, if applicable. Measure and mark locations to cut the pipe. Place a length of pipe strap against a joist, beyond your cut mark on the pipe. Use an 8-penny nail to hold the strap in place. Bring the pipe strap around the pipe and mark a cut on the pipe strap that allows enough slack to fasten the strap to the opposing joist with another 8-penny nail. Cut the pipe strap to the proper length with the aviation snips.

2. Place the drain bucket below the first cut you are going to place in the PVC pipe. Cut the PVC pipe with the cutter using a front and back motion while applying slight pressure toward the pipe.

3. Cut the other mark that you made on the pipe. Remove the piece of PVC pipe. Cap the ends of the pipe or continue removing the pipe. Continue using the methods described in the previous steps.

Tips & Warnings

• When inserting the 8-penny nails, leave the heads of the nails away from the joists to allow for easy removal later.
• Proper support for PVC is critical as unsupported pipe can crack and need to be replaced.