Connecting a PVC pipe can be messy business, especially if you’re attempting to do so using primer and pipe cement.
If you’ve ever been in this sticky situation then you’ll be happy to know that you don’t necessarily need glue to connect a PVC pipe. Now, connecting that pipe is easier than ever before.
There are various projects you can tackle that require connecting PVC piping in one way or another. These range from extending your drainage system to improving your HVAC system.
If you’re looking for more tips on how to connect a PVC pipe (see also ‘How To Connect PVC To Copper Pipe’), then you’re in luck.
Today, we are going to be looking at some tips and tricks for achieving just that. Without further ado, let’s look at methods for connecting PVC pipes.
Cutting The PVC Pipe
It doesn’t matter what you’re wanting to connect your PVC pipe to, whether it’s metal or plastic, the initial step never changes.
You will need to cut the PVC pipe as straight as you can. It is important to ensure that the edges of the pipe are even.
Doing this will make sure that the pipe stays connected and will prevent any pieces from falling off.
You can smooth out the cut edge by deburring it.
Deburring is a crucial step for those working with PVC piping. For critical work such as plumbing or any work dealing with radiators, you will need to deburr the edges or your pipe won’t stay connected.
It may not be as crucial for those of you looking to use PVC piping for smaller DIY projects.
Connect PVC Piping Without Using Glue
We stated earlier that it was possible to connect a PVC pipe without using glue and that statement is still true. In order to do this, you will need to use various joints.
For those of you looking to connect PVC piping to something temporarily, then the methods we’re going to discuss will work perfectly for you. Using glue for temporary connections would be pointless.
This doesn’t mean that you can use these methods as a substitution for projects that will require your PVC piping to be glued. Any larger projects, such as plumbing, will require your piping to be glued.
This is because PVC pipes that are intended to carry water or gas must be glued together.
Some types of PVC pipes can be bought as two separate pieces with an existing joint.
In this case, all you need to do is simply push them together. However, more often than not, you will need to find a method of connecting them yourself.
If you’re trying to connect a PVC pipe to a threaded pipe then you will need to find a method that will provide you with a secure connection.
One method to solve this is to drill a hole into both of the pipes and hammer a nail or pin through them to keep them intact. This connection can be quite sturdy and may be suitable for you.
If you want to remove the connected pipes you can simply take the nail or pin out and have your two separate pieces again.
Another option for connecting pipes without glue is to purchase some slide-on extensions made specifically for PVC pipes. You can find these at most hardware stores.
You will find that these extensions are incredibly useful, they are easy to install and remove. In fact, you might find that some of them are perfectly capable of transporting water and gas.
Use A PVC Pipe To Extend A Downspout
One of the projects that has been sitting around on your to-do list may well be extending a downspout. If that’s the case, then not to worry.
We will look at how to successfully extend a downspout by connecting PVC piping. A common problem that people face is their drainpipe spilling water all over their yard or leaking into the basement.
This problem can be solved by extending the downspout of your drainpipe to redirect the water.
In order to do this, you will need to purchase a non-perforated PVC pipe that is 4 inches in diameter.
Along with this, you will need an array of PVC elbows, couplings, T-fittings, and adapters. On top of this, you will require PVC primer and cement to help you connect your PVC pipe. These can be found at most hardware stores.
In order to add an extension to your downspout, you must check where you would like the water to drain to after the extension has been installed.
It is best to find somewhere like a lawn, bed of gravel, or other safe areas for drainage.
Once you have determined this destination then you need to check that the yard is sloping downward so that the water doesn’t go into your house or basement.
You should try to use PVC piping that measures at least 4 feet in length to ensure that there is plenty of distance between the downspout and the drainage area (see also ‘What You Need To Know About Gutter And House Drainage Distances‘).
This will ensure that the soil around the foundation of your house doesn’t erode or cause basement leaks. It will also make sure that the soil is dry enough so that there is less chance of it rotting.
It is possible to connect several downspout extensions together if you need to have the extension be longer than 4 feet.
However, the additional connection seams will mean that there is a higher chance of leaks or breakages. On top of this, it is more work to connect multiple pipes. Try your best to find the length of pipe that you need.
Connecting PVC And Metal
If you’re wanting to connect a PVC to metal then you may want to think carefully about doing so. Typical PVC cement will not be able to be used to achieve this, that’s because the cement isn’t able to bond to metal.
You may be wondering if it is entirely impossible to connect PVC piping to metal. We’re here to tell you that it isn’t completely off the table.
In order to be able to achieve this, you will need to purchase a rubber seal. There are rubber seals available that are made to do precisely this job.
You will be able to find the correct rubber seal at a plumbing store or even through your repairman.
If you’re still struggling to find a way to connect your PVC pipe to metal then make sure to contact a plumber.
Unfortunately, untrained professionals aren’t able to try their hand at all repair work and it is better to employ a professional than to risk damaging your pipes.
Connecting PVC To PEX
You may have come across PEX pipes (see also ‘Should PEX Piping Be Insulated?‘) when searching for PVC pipe connections. You’ll be happy to know that it is possible to connect the two and it is actually a simple task.
When visiting hardware or plumbing stores you may find that they have an array of threaded fittings to choose from that will help you to connect your PVC pipe to your PEX pipe.
We would suggest starting here and looking for these fittings to complete this task. All you need to do is slot one part of the PVC pipe into the thread and one part of the PEX pipe into the other end of the thread and the job is done.
For some specific jobs, you may find that this process isn’t as straightforward as you’d like it to be. For this, some additional tools may be required.
At this point, it may be necessary to use glue. However, typically you won’t find yourself needing glue for this task.
If you’re looking to transport water then you will need to ensure that the connection is waterproof by using PVC cement.
In order to find the right thread, you must know the diameter of the PEX and PVC pipe that you’re wanting to connect.
Make sure you find a thread that has a male and female connection so that the two pieces will connect together as intended. Following these steps will help you to connect your PVC and PEX pipes.
Conclusion
PVC is a versatile material that has many functions and uses. It is durable and malleable and is great for a plethora of DIY projects. Its durability comes from the fact that it is incredibly resistant to temperature changes.
You can use PVC piping to connect to different materials. Not only can it be used for connections, but it can also be used as a functioning part of many other personal DIY projects.
PVC is a very useful and sought-after material, especially within the world of plumbing.
If you’re in need of repairing a pipe or are looking to tackle a different plumbing problem, then you may want to contact your plumber in the first instance.
If after speaking with them you believe that you are capable of tackling the problem yourself then we hope these steps will help.
