Looking to improve my PVC skills. I have a heck of a time getting my measurements right, and I typically have to improvise some after I’ve got everything cut and ready to glue, in order to make it work. Anyone have any tips?
How do you get your PVC measurements right?
- Thread starter kellyfair
- Start date
Use a chop saw to make all your cuts square and clean.
Measure how deep the pipe can go in the fitting and mark the pipes before you insert them so you know if they are inserted all the way before the glue dries.
that’s all I got.
PVC connector pieces have a little stop 1-2" inside that prevents the pipe from going farther into the connector. Measure the depth of the connector you will use on each end of the pipe and write it down, then measure the length of pipe you need. It might make it easier to measure how much pipe you need by marking where the stops are on the outside of the connector.
Remember when dry fitting pipes that you won't be able to get the PVC to fully seat in the connectors without some sort of lubricant. If water alone won't get the pieces to fit together only use a water based lubricant that can be easily washed off. Any residue may prevent the PVC glue from making a good seal.
Remember when dry fitting pipes that you won't be able to get the PVC to fully seat in the connectors without some sort of lubricant. If water alone won't get the pieces to fit together only use a water based lubricant that can be easily washed off. Any residue may prevent the PVC glue from making a good seal.
Push-out is a thing. Once glued, you need to hold the pieces together, firmly, for about 60 seconds. Otherwise they will push themselves apart.
Measure 3 times, write down your measurements. Even take a break and come back to measure again. When marking the PVC look at where you scribe your line to cut. Note how the line falls either slightly to the left or right of the tape measure or if it is dead on. I always then make a small mark (<) to denote to which side of the scribe I am cutting. As mentioned above, the pieces slip into each other so when measuring you need to take that into account. ALWAYS cut a little longer than needed. You can always shave off 1/8" but you cannot add if you cut short.
I would like to say to test fit before making final cuts but the pieces do not always seat down all the way and pulling them back apart can be a major pita.
Bottom line take your time, make sure you are not rushed (aka kids pulling you away, etc.).
They also make Sharkbite's a similar press on PVC connectors.
I would like to say to test fit before making final cuts but the pieces do not always seat down all the way and pulling them back apart can be a major pita.
Bottom line take your time, make sure you are not rushed (aka kids pulling you away, etc.).
They also make Sharkbite's a similar press on PVC connectors.
I have scrap pieces of pipe that I insert into fittings and measure exposed pipe. Then I add socket depth minus 1/16" to 1/8" for each end to that measurement for cutting length. Cut with a mitre saw when I can (otherwise a pvc ratchet cutter) and mark target fitting position for socket with a pencil before cleaner & glue. Try to have a "persuader" available (usually a block of wood or mallet) if joint is stubburn. Key is to do pipe one at a time so you can adjust for non-perfect joints.
- Jul 3, 2013
- 9,027
- Pool Size
- 15000
- Surface
- Vinyl
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- CircuPool SJ-40
I just wing it 
Put a piece up there and cut where I mark it and glue it right there... works most of the time
Put a piece up there and cut where I mark it and glue it right there... works most of the time
- Jul 3, 2013
- 9,027
- Pool Size
- 15000
- Surface
- Vinyl
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- CircuPool SJ-40
Just plain exterior latex. Specifically: Valspar Duramax, but doesn't look like Lowe's carries this by the quart anymore.
- Jul 3, 2013
- 9,027
- Pool Size
- 15000
- Surface
- Vinyl
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- CircuPool SJ-40
I have seen yours before and I am not sure I could have done that half as good as you did