PVC is one of the most commonly used materials in the residential and commercial plumbing and HVAC industries. Because of its popularity, many different types of PVC and PVC cement have been created to accommodate any situation. As such, it isn't always clear which PVC products are compatible with one another.
If you need to use flexible PVC pipe for any reason, you can use standard PVC cement to make your connections. Standard PVC cement will adhere to flexible PVC and fill in any gaps in the connection. However, if you want to be thorough and ensure a foolproof connection, you can also use PVC cement specifically for flexible PVC pipe.
If you want to know more about flexible PVC pipe, PVC cement, and how to use the two together, you've come to the right place. This article will outline these materials and the best practices for using them together, as well as alternative solutions and when to call in the pros!
What is Flexible PVC Pipe?
Flexible PVC is a relatively new type of PVC pipe that's rising rapidly in popularity. Unlike rigid PVC, which is solid, straight, and unyielding, flexible PVC is flexible, similar to a garden hose. This is because rigid PVC is made of hard composite plastic, while flexible PVC consists of these same materials but has a plasticizer added for flexibility.
Flexible PVC has a much thinner pipe wall than rigid PVC. As such, it's not as durable and strong as rigid PVC and can't be used in all the same situations. The most common uses for flexible PVC pipe include:
• Irrigation systems
• Pool plumbing
• HVAC condensation drains
• Pump lines
• Water lines
• Automotive industry
Rigid PVC is thicker, stronger, and more durable than flexible PVC. This makes it better for high pressure, temperature, and volume situations, such as plumbing and HVAC vents, drain lines, and sewer pipes.
What is PVC Cement?
As the name implies, PVC cement is a bonding material specifically designed to form strong connections between different pieces of PVC. PVC cement is sometimes referred to as PVC glue, and the terms are often used interchangeably. The reason it's called cement is because it uses a process known as "solvent welding" to form connections.
There are many different types of PVC cement designed to handle different situations and PVC materials. This includes:
• Medium Clear PVC Cement - This is the most widely-used type of PVC cement by plumbers and HVAC workers. You can use it for most standard connections when the temperature is between 40 and 110 Fahrenheit.
• Regular Clear PVC Cement - Regular clear cement is very similar to medium clear cement, but not quite as fast-setting or strong. It's a good option for very low-risk connections.
• CPVC Cement - CPVC cement is designed specifically for CPVC pipe connections and not for PVC.
• Flexible Medium Clear PVC Cement - While regular PVC cement is okay for connections involving flexible PVC pipe, flexible medium clear PVC cement is designed specifically for these types of connections.
• All-Purpose or Multi-Purpose Cement - If you're connecting different types of pipes together, all-purpose or multi-purpose cement can get used on all plastic pipe surfaces.
• ABS Cement - Designed exclusively when connecting ABS pipes together. This material isn't suited for PVC connections.
• Weatherproof PVC Cement - The perfect option if you're making wet or dry connections in temperatures below 0 or above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Hot Medium Blue Lava PVC Cement - Extremely fast setting and ideal for emergency repairs where you can't dry or clean the pipes you're connecting.
In addition to the different types of PVC cement, there are also different types of PVC primers and cleaners. Cleaners contain solvents and chemicals that remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the PVC surface. Primers, on the other hand, partially melt the PVC surface so that PVC cement can sink into its cracks and pores. It's important to choose the right type of primer and/or cleaner when using flexible PVC pipe.
Can PVC Cement be Used on Flexible PVC Pipe?
Generally speaking, it's okay to use standard PVC cement with flexible PVC pipe. This includes both medium clear and regular clear PVC cement, but not CPVC or ABS cements. Additionally, while it's possible to use weatherproof or blue lava PVC cement with flexible PVC pipe, it's overkill, and there's no reason to do so.
Along with choosing the right type of PVC cement, it's also important to use PVC primer when forming flexible PVC pipe connections. You should also clean and prepare the various surfaces that you plan to connect with each other. Finally, let the connection sit and cure for at least 15 minutes before making any further connections.
Best Practices for Using PVC Cement on Flexible PVC Pipe
If you plan to use regular PVC cement with flexible PVC pipe, it's important to follow these instructions:
1. Use a rag to clean the flexible PVC pipe and connector you plan to use.
2. Apply PVC primer or a primer/cleaner combination to the flexible PVC pipe and whatever you plan to connect it to.
3. Apply the appropriate PVC cement to the flexible pipe and connector.
4. Connect the two components and twist the pipe a quarter turn so that the cement sinks into every crack and crevice.
5. Hold the pipe in place for 10 to 20 seconds before releasing it.
It's important to give PVC cement adequate time to cure before making additional connections or testing out the connection. Curing time varies depending on the type of cement you use and the conditions in which you use it, so read the instructions on your specific product.
Alternative Solutions
If you aren't comfortable using standard PVC glue with flexible PVC pipe, we recommend using flexible medium clear PVC cement. This product is created specifically for flexible PVC pipe and is the best option when it comes to PVC cements. You can also opt for clamps or mechanical fittings for plumbing connections where the flexible pipe is slightly bigger or smaller than whatever you're connecting it to.
When to Consult a Professional
If you're a homeowner looking to do some DIY plumbing, pool, or HVAC work on your own, a flexible pipe is a good option. It's very forgiving and easy to use, as long as you use the right PVC cement and primer.
However, flexible PVC pipe is meant for very low-pressure and low-flow situations. If you're not sure if it's a good option for you, we recommend consulting a professional. They can point you towards the right materials to get the job done!