How to Use CPVC Cement on PVC Pipes

The introduction of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) as pipe materials has made many plumbing tasks much easier than in the past, when plumbing only employed metal pipes. PVC pipe pieces join together easily, and fittings attach quickly using cement. PVC cement is not strong enough for use with CPVC, a harder and stronger pipe than PVC. However, the cement developed for CPVC is strong enough and perfectly suitable for use with both types of pipe.

Things You'll Need

• Sandpaper
• PVC pipe
• Rag
• CPVC primer
• CPVC cement

Instructions

1. With a piece of sandpaper, rough up the surfaces on both pieces of pipe or fittings you wish to join. Wipe them clean with a rag.

2. Apply a generous amount of CPVC primer to the areas of the PVC pipe you will join, using the swab that comes attached to the lid of the primer container. Also swab the inside of any fittings or couplers you plan to join.

3. Apply CPVC cement to the same surfaces and in the same way as the primer. The cement will also come with a swab attached to the lid.

4. Slide the two pieces of PVC together into the fitting or coupling immediately, as the cement begins to dry quickly. Push firmly until you feel the pipes hit the end of the fitting or coupler.

5. Grasp each of the joined pieces of PVC, and give them a fourth of a turn in opposite directions to ensure the cement makes good contact. Wait fifteen minutes before putting the joined PVC to use.

References

• Plumbing FAQ's

Resources

• How To Glue PVC Pipe Video