How to Repair a Broken PVC Pipe Joint

PVC pipe-cutting pliers

To the uninitiated, repairing a broken PVC pipe can be a daunting task. However, most PVC pipes can be repaired quite easily, even if there is little room to work. Repairing PVC pipe can be accomplished by almost anyone due to the fact that PVC joints and couplings are typically solvent joints. PVC pipe material and fittings are glued together with primer and PVC solvent to form many types of piping systems including irrigation, electrical and potable water-piping systems. A broken piece of PVC plumbing piping can be repaired in just a few steps with a repair coupling and PVC solvent.

Things You'll Need

• PVC pipe-cutting pliers or hacksaw
• PVC pipe sized to match existing
• PVC repair coupling
• PVC coupling
• PVC primer
• PVC solvent cement

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply and clean the work area. The broken pipe should be clean and dry.

2. Cut out the section of the broken pipe, leaving a gap between two squarely cut ends of piping. Use a hacksaw or a PVC cutting tool to cut the pipe. Remove any shavings or burrs left behind by the cutting process. You should remove at least 12 inches of pipe to ease the replacement.

3. Cut a piece of new PVC piping to replace the removed section. The length of the new pipe segment should be 1 inch shorter than the segment that was removed.

4. Slide a PVC coupling on one end of the cut pipe. Apply primer to the pipe and inside of the coupling before applying the PVC solvent. Use a twisting motion as you press the coupling onto the pipe.

5. Slide a PVC repair coupling onto the other cut pipe, sliding it far enough to expose at least 1 inch of the cut pipe end.

6. Prime and cement one side of the new pipe segment and slide it into the coupling with a twisting motion.

7. Prime and cement the opposite side of the new pipe segment and the end of the cut pipe which is now opposing it. Apply the solvent liberally and slide the repair coupling over the joint between the new and cut pipe with a twisting motion.

8. Restore water pressure after the solvent has cured according the the written PVC solvent instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Dry-fit all the parts together first to check the final fit of the parts before gluing anything.

• Follow printed instructions on the PVC primer and solvent carefully.

• PVC primer and solvent cement may contain high amounts of volatile organic compounds. Take care to use only in a well ventilated area. Follow all safety instructions provided with the material.

• Wearing safety goggles and gloves is good practice when using solvents.