Omar Khalid
Connecting a new plastic drainage pipe to an existing line is a common plumbing task that requires careful preparation and execution. The process involves cutting and removing a section of the existing pipe, priming and gluing the new pipe, and using couplers or fittings to create secure connections. Whether working with copper, cast iron, or plastic pipes, the fundamental principles of tying down a plastic drainage pipe remain consistent, ensuring a reliable connection to the existing plumbing system.
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What You'll Learn
Using slip couplings
Slip couplings are a great option for tying into an existing drain line, especially if you have limited wiggle room. Before you begin, ensure that there is absolutely no water in the pipe. Shutting off the water main is a good way to be sure.
Next, mark and cut a section out of the existing drain line. You can use a hacksaw, handsaw, or tube cutter to cut the pipe, but avoid power saws as they will melt the plastic. The cut should be straight and at a right angle. After cutting, let any residual water drip out.
Now, you can prepare the slip couplings. Slip couplings are used to connect two pipes together, and they slide over the outside of the pipes. Apply a generous amount of glue to the pipe ends and the inside of the slip couplings. You can also prime the surfaces with a multipurpose primer to ensure a strong bond.
Quickly slip a coupling onto each end of the existing drain pipe, pushing it up far enough to allow the new pipe to fit into place. Once the new pipe is in position, slide the couplings back down so that the centre of each coupling is over the gap between the pipes. Give the couplings a quarter-turn twist to secure them in place.
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Priming and gluing
Before you start priming and gluing, it's important to prepare your space and gather the right tools. Set up your work area in a well-ventilated, well-lit space, preferably outdoors or near an open window. Cover your work surface with a tarp, towel, drop cloth, or newspaper to protect it from spills and make cleanup easier. Put on safety goggles (ideally with side shields) and protective gloves. An organic vapour respirator can also protect you from breathing in harmful solvent vapours.
PVC primer and cement are messy to work with and can pose a hazard to your skin and eyes. Keep them away from heat sources and open flames, as they are highly flammable. Store them in a cool, dry place out of reach of children and pets. Always replace their caps tightly after use.
Now, you can begin the priming and gluing process. First, dry fit the parts to make sure they will fit together as intended. Mark the pipe and the fitting with a Sharpie so you can quickly line them up when you apply glue. You can make a line from the bottom of the fitting to the top of the pipe.
Using the brush included with the primer, paint the outside of the pipe and the inside of the fitting with the primer. You can also use a one-inch band of primer around the top exterior of the pipe, rotating the brush around the pipe three times. Allow the primer to dry for about 10 seconds. Primer softens and cleans the plastic so that the glue can work properly. It creates a chemical reaction that softens the plastic and allows for better adhesion.
After priming, apply a generous coat of PVC cement to the primed areas on the inside of the fitting and the outside of the pipe. Use long, even strokes to ensure complete coverage. The cement should be applied quickly to prevent it from drying before the joint is assembled.
Push the pipe into the fitting with a slight twisting motion until it bottoms out against the fitting's shoulder. Give it a quarter turn to spread the glue evenly and speed its cure, ensuring there are no gaps that could lead to leaks. After twisting, hold the pipe in place for about 15 to 30 seconds to allow the glue to set.
While the initial bond forms quickly, full curing takes longer. Allow at least 15 minutes before handling the joint and 2 hours before applying any pressure. Wipe up any excess cement with a dry rag.
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Water testing for leaks
Whenever you tie into an existing drain line, it is good practice to perform a water test to check for leaks at the new connections.
There are several ways to test for water leaks. One common method is to use a tool called an aqua phone, which magnifies the sound of running water inside your pipes. If you hear a rumbling or hissing sound, you likely have a water service line leak. You can also place your ear directly on the water service line or use a metal rod or screwdriver to extend from the line to your ear.
Another way to test for leaks is to open a faucet on a lower floor and an upper floor. Let the water drain out of your plumbing system, and then listen to your pipes again. If the sound of running water has stopped, you have an internal plumbing problem. Check for a running toilet or any signs of an internal leak. If you still hear rumbling or hissing sounds, you likely have a water service line leak.
In some cases, a sewer line leak can be mistaken for a water line leak. Signs of a sewer line leak include the sound of trickling water when all faucets are off, damp spots or discoloured areas on walls or floors, bad smells, and cracks in walls or foundations. A professional can perform a hydrostatic pressure test to confirm a sewer line leak. This involves inserting a special inflated ball into the sewer line to block the pipe and observing the water level. If the water level drops, a leak is likely present.
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Using a wye fitting
When using a wye fitting to tie down a plastic drainage pipe, there are several steps to follow. Firstly, ensure that there is absolutely no water in the existing pipe. Shut off the water main for the whole house to be certain.
Next, mark and cut a section out of the existing drain line that is 12 inches longer than the wye fitting you plan to install. After cutting, let any residual water drip out. Cut two pieces of new PVC pipe to approximately 7.5 inches each, allowing enough pipe to slide into the socket of the wye and the coupling.
Now, dry-fit the new wye assembly and test-fit it in the open section you cut out of the drain line. Ensure there are 1/4-inch gaps on either side, allowing you to insert the piece and slide the fittings into place. If the gap is too wide, cut a longer piece for one side of the wye and recheck.
Once you've confirmed a proper fit, prime one end of each pipe piece and both mating sockets of the wye fitting. Immediately apply cement to the same areas. Push the pieces into each side of the wye and give them a quarter-turn twist.
Finally, slip a coupling on each end of the existing drain pipe, pushing each coupling up far enough to allow the new wye assembly to fit. Slide the couplings back down onto the wye assembly, ensuring the centre of each coupling is over the 1/4-inch gap. Give the couplings a quarter-turn twist, and tie the new drain line into the remaining opening in the wye.
It is recommended to use a ""mission" coupling that clamps over the last joint, providing a better seal and peace of mind.
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Cutting and fitting tools
Cutting and fitting plastic drainage pipes require a variety of tools, depending on the pipe diameter and the number of cuts needed. Here are some commonly used tools for cutting and fitting plastic drainage pipes:
Cutting Tools
- Hacksaws: Hacksaws are versatile and can be used for cutting various materials, including plastic pipes. They are relatively inexpensive and suitable for smaller projects or those requiring fewer cuts. However, they may not be ideal for large projects or precise cuts.
- Plastic Pipe Cutters: These are inexpensive tools designed specifically for cutting plastic pipes. They are available in rotating and scissor-type variants and are perfect for smaller diameter pipes.
- Electric Miter Saw: If you have a large number of pipes to cut, an electric miter saw is a good option. It allows you to cut pipes quickly and accurately. However, you need to ensure you understand how to use it safely.
- Circular Saw: A circular saw can be used to cut plastic pipes, but it is important to use a composite material or plastic blade instead of a standard wood blade.
- SiteStak Drainage Workstations: These workstations provide a workbench to cut pipes at an appropriate height, improving posture and control. They include guides to help cut pipes accurately and securely.
Fitting Tools
- Couplings: Couplings are used to connect different sections of pipes. They can be made of plastic or metal and are available in various types, such as mission couplings and solvent-weld slip couplings.
- Cement or Glue: After applying cement or glue to the pipe ends and fittings, quickly push the connectors together with a twist until properly sealed.
- Primer: Primer is used in conjunction with cement or glue to prepare the surfaces for bonding.
- Pipe Lubricant: Applying pipe lubricant before fitting can make it easier to connect the pieces and reduce the risk of damaging the seal connectors.
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Frequently asked questions
The first step is to shut off the water to existing supply pipes and drain the lines. You should also ensure that no one uses a sink or faucet that drains into it.
After cutting the pipe, lay in the new pipe and use couplers to seal the connection. Slide a coupling onto both sides of the remaining pipe.
It is a good idea to perform a water test to check for leaks at the new connections.
