PVC cement Pipe Cements, Primers & Cleaners

PVC Pipe Glue and Primers

Gluing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe requires the right tools and materials. It also requires you to work quickly to make a good connection. Accuracy is key, as well, as the adhesive creates a permanent bond. Read on to learn more about how to glue PVC pipe and get the right PVC pipe glue for your needs.

For tips on making temporary repairs to a leaking pipe, check out our guide on the subject, How to Fix a Leaking Pipe. Learn more about working with PVC pipe by checking out our PVC Pipe and Fittings Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to prime PVC pipe before gluing?

A: Yes, PVC pipe requires priming before gluing. PVC primer doesn’t just clean the pipe and fitting; it also prepares the surface for the PVC pipe glue, softening the surface before the glue melts it. This is an essential step to create a robust bond between the pipe and the fitting.

Q: How do you fix a leaking PVC joint without cutting it? 

A: You can fix PVC joint leaks with self-fusing repair tape, epoxy putty or fiberglass resin tape, depending on the water pressure that the joints handle. These materials can help you make a temporary fix or repair a minor crack until you can have a plumber make a full repair. If the leak continues or resurfaces later, it’s probably time to cut out the PVC joint and replace it.

PVC pipe glue is designed to fuse the outer surface of a pipe to the inner surface of the fittings. You can’t use it to repair a leaking pipe from the outside. However, there are plenty of options for sealing PVC leaks from the outside of the pipe.

Q: What do plumbers use to glue pipes together?

A: Plumbers use primer and PVC pipe glue, which many people call plumbers glue or PVC cement, to forge a durable seal between pipes and fittings. PVC pipe glue produces a chemical reaction that melts the parts together, creating a seal that keeps liquid and other materials securely inside.

Be sure to choose PVC pipe glue. You’ll likely see other types of pipe cement, including products specifically designed to join chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipe. While those adhesives’ names may sound similar and the products may look similar to PVC pipe glue, they’re not appropriate for joining PVC pipe.