There will be days when we need to do some repairs on our PVC pipes at home and sometimes, especially when the pipes start to leak. The best way to fix them is to cut and replace them, but what if you don’t want to replace them?
For those who don’t want to do the cutting, in this article, you’ll learn how to properly rebuild these pipes.
PVC Drain Pipes: How Durable Are They?
Short for polyvinyl chloride pipes, these construction materials are popular due to their flexibility and durability. In addition, due to their translucency, they become suitable for various carpentry works such as plumbing, drainage, sewerage or water supply.
A high-quality PVC pipe can last for a hundred years, but when exposed to extreme temperatures and other factors, these pipes tend to deteriorate easily. One great thing about them is that when they do break, they can be repaired rather than replaced. This is more convenient and the repair does not cost much.
However, understand that when the damage is already extreme, replacement is better advised.
How to properly fix PVC pipes without cutting
It is indeed possible to repair and repair your PVC pipes without having to cut them their. If you want an instant fix, some of the solutions below can be followed.
1. Glass reinforced plastic tape
If you want to repair your PVC pipes without cutting them, you may want to consider resin strips. However, this time, you should only use the fiberglass ones.
In general, fiberglass resins they are very functional and many studies approve that they can be used as an alternative to metals and alloys. They can provide quality adhesion and cementation without problems.
This resin is also water resistant, which is why it is perfect for repair of PVC pipes. Once they harden, they will reduce the chance of water leaks in the pipes. If you want to use this method, follow these steps:
- Clean the part of the PVC pipe that needs to be repaired first. If you are diligent enough, you can clean the nearby areas of the damaged part.
- Be sure not to dry out the area as you are wrapping the resin over the damaged PVC area while it is still wet.
- After 10 minutes, make sure this strip of resin has hardened.
- Open the faucet to test if it’s still flowing.
If you have a resin cloth, that will work too. This resin cloth material it is used as resin tape, but you need to harden it by exposing the PVC pipe to UV light.
2. Superglue
Superglue is also known as repair epoxy or putty epoxy and this method is one of the most popular techniques for repairing PVC pipes without cutting them. This material is viscous and adhesive enough to be placed on the damaged area of PVC pipes and PVC joints.
Unlike resin tape and cloth, The PVC that should be repaired it must be without water. Thus, after cleaning your PVC, you should dry it thoroughly.
Usually when you buy epoxy products, especially those in liquid form, there are instructions for use. If you can, try to follow these manufacturer’s instructions to avoid complications. There is generally no curing time for this material.
After you apply it, leave it for 10-15 minutes, then turn on the main water source and check for leaks. If there isn’t, you’re good to go! But if there are any leaks, all you have to do is apply liquid epoxy to those areas as well.
Just a warning, make sure you are not hypersensitive to epoxy. There are some studies that talk about hypersensitivity to epoxy and its effects on health.
3. Silicone bands and rubber bands
If you are looking for a simple solution for your damaged PVC pipesthe use of silicone bands and rubber bands is highly recommended.
Typically, these strips are used for minor leaks or small leaks on your PVC pipes. These tapes are very easy to use as all you have to do is wrap them around the area of damaged PVC pipes.note that make sure to wrap them tightly.
After applying these strips, you should check for leaks. Once there, you should remove these tapes and re-wrap a new set of tapes.
4. Consider hose clamps
When using this method, you must use rubber band with these hose clamps. First, you need to wrap rubber tape around the damaged area of the PVC pipe.
Make sure you pack well. Then, when you’re done wrapping, place the hose clamps on the ends of the rubber bands and secure them.
Generally, this is only a temporary method of repairing PVC pipes. If you find a better solution, you can remove these tape and hose clamps and complete the new repair method.
5. Silicone patches
If you’re into hardware, you might want to ask for silicone patches. They are easy to use repair materials for leaky PVC pipes.
These silicone patches look like the ones you put on your inflatable pools. When using these patches, you must first clean the area of the damaged PVC pipe.
Then glue the pressure patch on and you’re good to go!
6. Spray sealant
Nowadays, many products are becoming popular in the home improvement industry. For PVC pipes, there are these spray sealants that are very easy and convenient to use.
After cleaning the damaged area of the PVC pipe, all you have to do is spray it with sealant. After spraying, test and check for leaks. If any leakage remains, lightly spray the area until no leakage is visible.
7. cloths and towels
Well, if you want temporarily fix leaks in PVC pipes, you might want to grab some rags and towels. Generally, these two can help you control the leak while you’re out getting materials.
Reasons for leaking PVC pipes
Sometimes you will also wonder what caused the PVC pipes to leak. Well, there is many reasons for these unfortunate events and some of them will be discussed in this section.
1. Improper installation
The most common cause of leaking PVC pipes is improper installation. You will usually find leaks in the pipe joints, and when you see this, it is most likely because you have installed these pipes incorrectly.
Whenever there is a gap in your PVC pipe installation, it will cause leaks in no time.
2. Too much or too little cement was used
When installing PVC pipes, it is important to adjust the amount of cement you use. Too much solvent cement cause damage to these pipes. Likewise, when you use less cement, they are also at risk of damage and cracking.
Keep in mind that an expert plumber knows the proper amount of cement to use. If you want to install the pipes yourself, you can at least consult a plumber who can give you an idea or a guide for installing these pipes.
3. Brittle pipes
Brittle pipes are caused by two factors. The first is due to the quality of the materials that have been used, and the second is due to the fact that these pipes are too exposed to sunlight.
If you want your PVC pipes to be less brittle, especially when installed outdoors, you may want to coat them with protective paint.
In addition to exposure to sunlight, cold weather can also damage PVC pipes. For this reason, it is highly recommended to insulate your pipes.
Final thoughts
Although PVC pipes are durable, there will be days when they will deteriorate. Common causes of this damage are fragility and improper installation.
If you want to repair these pipes without cutting them when they start to leak, you can try using epoxy glue, fiberglass resin tape and fiberglass cloth or sheeting, silicone repair tapes, rubber tapes, silicone patches or spray sealant. We also suggest calling in plumbers or construction experts when necessary.
If you have a better way, leave a comment below!
