PVC pipe: easy to cut, fit and install

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping is often used to replace or update cast-iron and galvanized pipes in modern plumbing. But why? Developing a basic understanding of PVC piping and how it can be cut, fitted and installed in your home with ease, can help you understand the benefits of this versatile material. [Photo credit: istock.com/Toa55]

Time: N/A
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Difficulty: Easy
Tools: PVC pipe cutting tools, cement, primer

Develop a basic understanding of PVC piping and you will have a better understanding of the benefits of this versatile material.

PVC pipe is the most widely used type of plastic piping material and can be found in drains and vents, and is used for handling waste in buildings. Here are some of the benefits to PVC piping:

• Environmentally sound.
• Rigid, lightweight and strong.
• Available in a variety of PVC pipe sizes and dimensions and generally sold in 10’ (3.04 m) and 20’ (6.09 m) lengths.
• Free from toxicity and chemically resistant.
• Cost-effective, easy to install and provides a long service life.

Good to Know!

Always check local building code requirements to ensure the materials you select meet current standards for your property and area.

PVC pipe will often need to be cut to suit your project. Fortunately, this material can be easily cut using a few different methods. Select your cutting tool based on the PVC pipe size and its intended use.

Hacksaw or backsaw

• The most common tools for cutting lengths of PVC pipe.
• Ideal if you only need to cut one or a few pieces of pipe.

Power Miter Saw

• Handy for easily cutting large quantities of PVC pipe.
• Scissor-style pipe cutter
• Inexpensive and easy to use.
• Suitable for cutting smaller pieces of PVC tubing.

 
Ratchet-style pipe cutter

• Suitable for cutting larger pieces of PVC pipe with minimal effort.
• These types of PVC pipe cutters can be hard on the hands with frequent use and tend to be more expensive than other types.

Before installing PVC pipe, remember to:

• Follow local code requirements.
• Follow safe handling procedures.
• Read the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
• Keep pipe and PVC fittings in original packaging until you’re ready to use them.
• Protect PVC from the elements with a tarp if you’re storing it outside.
• Use tools specifically designed for use with plastic pipe.

One of the greatest benefits of PVC piping is how easy it is to install. Here are some simple steps involved in fitting and gluing PVC piping together:
Step 1:  Cut the pipe

• PVC pipe can be easily cut with an appropriate pipe-cutting tool.

Step 2:  Deburr and fit

• After cutting, clean shavings out of the pipe and smooth out the ragged edges (a process called deburring).
• Position the cut pipe with the proper PVC fittings in place to ensure the length is correct.

Step 3:  Clean and cement

• Clean the PVC pipe with an all-purpose pipe cleaner called a primer.
• Swab the primer around the inside of the pipe and the inside of the fitting.
• A special cement is used to hold the joint pieces of the pipe together. Coat the inner surface of the joint with cement and insert the PVC pipe.
• Make sure the glue has covered the entire joint.

Step 4:  Install pipe hangers

• Install pipe hangers to support the pipe and to ease stress on the joints.
• Follow recommendations from the distances from hanger to hanger, approximately every 4’ (1.21 m).
• Protect the pipe from nails, screws and other abrasive materials.

The widespread use of affordable and durable PVC piping in plumbing has made it easier to install and upkeep for DIYers. Ideal for drain applications under kitchen sinks and bathroom vanities, this versatile material is one you are likely to encounter in your home plumbing projects. A little information on how to cut, fit and install PVC pipe can go a long way to helping you complete your job smoothly.