How to Fix PVC Plumbing That Fell Apart

PVC pipe.

Improperly glued PVC pipe can fall apart and cause a leak. The pipes may be totally separated or only leaking. The pipes do not need to be replaced. They can be cleaned and re-glued to restore the pipes to their previous, leak-free condition. A plumber does not need to be called since this home repair project is a task that can easily be completed by any homeowner.

Things You'll Need

• 120-grit sandpaper
• Utility knife
• Clean damp rag
• PVC primer
• PVC glue

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Instructions

1. Pull the pipes totally apart from each other.

2. Clean off remaining glue on each PVC pipe by rubbing 120-grit sandpaper on both sides of the plumbing connection.

3. Check the ends of the pipes for burrs or rough areas. Remove burrs by scraping the plastic with a utility knife.

4. Wipe both sides of the connection with a clean damp rag to remove dust from sanding.

5. Apply PVC primer to both sides of the connection.

6. Apply PVC glue to both sides of the connection.

7. Press the pipes together and twist to ensure that the glue has coated the entire circumference of each pipe in the connection to create a water-tight seal.

References

• Hometime: Plumbing
• Ask the Builder: How to Glue PVC Pipe