Working with Rigid Plastic Pipe
Plastic plumbing is popular with do-it-yourselfers because it is inexpensive and easy to work with. Plastic pipe cuts with an ordinary hacksaw and goes together without special tools or techniques. You simply clean the burrs from the cut, prime, and glue the parts together.
Installing plastic pipe requires attention to detail, planning ahead, and doing things in the right order. If you make a mistake, the cemented parts can’t be disassembled. You’ll have to cut out the faulty section, throw it away, and start again.
You’ll find various types of plastic, so check your local codes to make sure you’re using the right type for your purpose. In most localities, either ABS or PVC is accepted (sometimes even required) for drain lines. Many localities do not accept plastic pipe for supply lines; others specify CPVC.
PLUMBING TRADE SECRETS: Do not mix ABS with PVC, it is not compatible. Each expands at a different rate and requires a different cement. Plastic pipe is not as stiff as metal; be sure to support horizontal runs every 4 to 5 feet.
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