PVC pipes are durable and lightweight, making them a sustainable solution for sewage, plumbing, and irrigation. These pipes and joint fittings are usually glued together using PVC solvent glue that melts the pipe's surface layer, leading to quick and permanent connections. PVC pipes are widely used as drain pipes due to their ease of use and cost-effectiveness.
Unfortunately, if a PVC pipe or joint leaks, it’s impossible to separate the joints and replace the leaking parts. The permanent repair often entails cutting the pipe back and installing new couplings and replacement components. However, if there’s a leak in the PVC drain pipe, you may repair it temporarily until the time comes for a permanent fix. Since drain pipes are not pressured, temporary repairs are reasonably effective.
Once you have fixed it, consider contacting the emergency plumbing contractor in Reno NV, to inspect the house’s entire plumbing system. We have outlined a few ways to repair or replace a leaky pipe.
If you need a temporary repair for a leaking PVC pipe, fiberglass resin tape can help. Fiberglass tape simplifies repair using a water-activated resin that solidifies around the pipe and reduces leakage. Clean the damaged portion of the PVC pipe with a damp cloth before applying the tape. Wrap the tape over the damaged area while it is still wet and leave it for 15 minutes.
Fiberglass resin cloth is most effective for permanent repair. Like the resin tape repair, begin by cleaning the area around the leak or damage, then gently sand the surface to provide a more sticky surface. Place the resin cloth over the damaged area and cure it by putting a UV light over the pipe or exposing a part of the pipe to direct sunshine.
Repair epoxy is a putty-like or viscous liquid used to repair PVC pipe leaks and joints. Commence the process by cleaning and drying the damaged area, so that water cannot get into it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing the putty or liquid, if needed.
After that, apply the epoxy and wait 10 minutes for it to set. Allow water to flow through the pipe after curing to check for leaks. You may seek professional plumbing contractor services in Reno NV, if you aren't feasible doing these repairs.
It’s a simple and effective solution for fixing minor leaks. Rubber and silicone tape comes in a roll that may be wrapped directly around the PVC pipe. However, the repair tape sticks to itself instead of adhering to the pipe. To repair the water leakage, wrap the tape around the leak, covering all the affected areas. Since the tape uses compression to seal the leak, ensure the wrap is tight and secure before reusing the pipes.
Similar to rubber and silicon repair tape, this method also uses compression to fix minor leaks in PVC pipes. Wrap the damaged area in rubber, then detach the hose clamps and arrange them around the affected area, tightening to stop or delay the flow. However, it’s a temporary fix, as the hose clamps and rubber tape will become ineffective over time.