PVC Pipe Repair Couplings: Basic Information

PVC pipe repair is a project that any do-it-yourself homeowner can do easily with simple plumbing tools. Unlike working with copper or metal pipes, there is no soldering needed to secure the joints. PVC pipes are glued together at the joints with waterproof glue. PVC pipes are also very do-it-yourself friendly when it comes to making repairs. There are times when the pipe is damaged through cracks because of water freezing, damage from clogs, or just weak material.

PVC Pipe Repair with Simple Tools

A do-it-yourself homeowner does not need to have an extensive tool box of plumbing tools. A simple hacksaw, tape measure, different lengths of PVC pipe, glue and pipe cleaner will make up most of what you need. There are smaller joints, elbows, and PVC pipe repair couplings that also make the job much easier.

PVC Pipe Repair Couplings

A product that many people use for small cracks in their PVC pipe is called a repair coupling. This small piece of PVC comes in different sizes according to the size of pipe you must fix. For the most part, the typical sizes are 3/4-inch and 1-inch diameters. They are also 4 to 6 inches long.

Using PVC Pipe Repair Couplings

When you notice that there is a small crack in one of your PVC pipes you can easily repair it with the correct size coupling. Make sure to purchase the size that will work with your pipe. If not sure, take the measurement of your PVC pipe (the diameter) and present it to the salesman at the hardware store. The PVC pipe repair coupling works with a very basic premise. The coupling is placed over the crack in the pipe and seals through either a sealer or snap fit. It wraps around the pipe without having to cut into the PVC which makes the repair much easier.

Using PVC Sealer for Repair

When using a coupling that requires the use of a sealant you will need to spread on the sealer first. If you have a four-inch coupling that you are using, make sure that the sealant covers that much of the PVC pipe around the crack. Place the coupling over the section that needs repair and make sure to line up the solid part with the break. After the sealant dries it will create a waterproof seal.

Using Snap Lock Coupling

The newest type of PVC pipe repair coupling that is available to consumers is one that does not require any sealant. After you clean the area where the leak is, it is important that there is no water on the surface of the pipe, then you can basically snap this coupling into place. It creates a watertight bond with the PVC so that there will be no leaks in the future. Make sure that the solid piece of the coupling covers the area where the break is and snap it into position.

Do-it-yourself homeowners should not be intimidated when it comes to repairing PVC pipe. With the snap on couplings, it is a very easy project that is completed within a few minutes.