We’ll start with the basics of joining PVC and fittings and the proper technique to get a good, lasting, leak-free joint!Joints need to be made when you are moving water from point A to point B. Straight joints are used to extend the length of a stretch of pipe, and elbows or tees are used when you need to change directions or split flow into separate lines as is the case with a tee let’s say.PVC primer and the cement have some pretty strong fumes, so make sure that you are working in a well-ventilated space with a fan or respirator. ALWAYS follow safety instructions that come with the materials.Alright, let’s get started! There are two methods for linking pipe to create a joint—by cementing and by threading.
We’ll start with cementing, for which you’ll need the primer, PVC cement, and a socket fitting. The thing about cementing is that it is a permanent joining you cannot remove it once it’s cemented.Sean has found that the ratcheting cutting tool is the easiest to use. However, it only sizes up to about inch pipe. If you have larger pipe, make sure that you’re using the appropriately sized cutting tool.The most important thing about cutting your pipe, other than safety, is getting a square cut. That means that the end of your pipe is nicely squared off, and not uneven or jagged. This is the most common cause of bad joints and leaks because the PVC won’t seal properly.Socket fittings are designed with a bit of a taper on the inside, which is where the sealing actually happens. Before adding any primer or cement, slide the pipe into the fitting.
If it goes in about half way and stops, you’ve got the right fit.Now that you’ve got your pipe cut to the right size, the next step is to remove the sharp edge around your cut. Use the chamfer tool by placing it on the end of the cut, and twisting.If the edge is left sharp when you insert that end of the pipe into the fitting, it will scrape all of the glue to the back. By chamfering the edge, the glue is allowed beyond the edge of the cut, and along the sides of the pipe for a tighter seal within the fitting, which will provide a stronger joint.Once your pipe is cut, chamfered, and cleaned, it’s time to prime it for the cement. The primer plays a special and crucial role in making joints. The idea is to get the strongest joint possible, and the way to do that is to create what is essentially a weld between the pipe and the fitting.
The primer, when applied to the outer surface of the pipe and the inner surface of the fitting, will actually soften the PVC. Then, once the cement is applied, the pipe and the fitting will actually join together where it’s been softened.Primer comes in two colors: clear and purple. While the clear works just fine, purple is often preferred because it indicates visually that the pipe has indeed been primed. It is also common because a lot of inspectors will require it in order for you to meet code.Use the applicator that comes in the primer to apply an even layer around the exterior surface of the pipe at the depth to which the fitting will reach. Do the same around the inside of the fitting. It may be helpful, if you can, to hold both pieces in one hand while you coat the primer with the other. Work the primer in well so the plastic of the PVC gets nice and soft.