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==Cutting PVC== | ==Cutting PVC== | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Hacksaw=== | ||
| + | You can cut PVC pipe with a hacksaw. | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Sawzall=== | ||
| + | A Sawzall cuts 2' PVC easily. They really do not sell a PVC cutter that works for larger PVC unless you pay a LOT of money for it. The $20 ones don't work at all. | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Miter or Band Saw=== | ||
| + | A power miter saw or band saw is handy for cutting the new pieces to length if you have one. | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Masking Tape as a Cutting Guide=== | ||
| + | A piece of masking tape wrapped around as a guide to make sure you are cutting straight. | ||
==Gluing PVC== | ==Gluing PVC== | ||
Revision as of 01:47, 16 August 2019
Types of PVC
Schedule 40 PVC
Pool PVC should be marked "Schedule 40". Schedule 40 PVC is made for water under pressure.
Schedule 80 PVC
You may also find Schedule 80 PVC. Schedule 80 PVC is designed for higher pressure applications and can be used in place of Schedule 40 PVC.
DWV PVC
You will find PVC pipe and fittings marked DWV (Drain, Waste, Vent). DWV is for non-pressurized plumbing and should not be used for a pool. DWV PVC has thinner walls then Schedule 40 PVC.
Schedule 40 PVC parts have deeper hubs (ends) then DWV PVC parts. The shallower ends on DWV parts is the way to identify their incorrect use in pool plumbing.
CPVC
CPVC is sometimes used in pump unions. CPVC can withstand heat and can safely carry drinking water.
Cutting PVC
Hacksaw
You can cut PVC pipe with a hacksaw.
Sawzall
A Sawzall cuts 2' PVC easily. They really do not sell a PVC cutter that works for larger PVC unless you pay a LOT of money for it. The $20 ones don't work at all.
Miter or Band Saw
A power miter saw or band saw is handy for cutting the new pieces to length if you have one.
Masking Tape as a Cutting Guide
A piece of masking tape wrapped around as a guide to make sure you are cutting straight.
Gluing PVC
After joining the pipes you must hold them together for 30 seconds until the plastic hardens or they can slip apart. It takes another 15 minutes for the joint to harden to a point at which it can withstand water pressure and two hours to fully cure.
Painting PVC
Prolonged exposure to UV rays (the sun) can degrade PVC and make it prone to cracking. In sunny climates PVC is often painted to protect it from UV degradation.
PVC Parts Sources
Schedule 40 parts are hard to find in the home improvement stores. Below are sources members have found useful.
PVC Fittings Online
PVC Fittings Online has a TON of PVC parts you can't find at HD or Lowes and shipping is affordable. They have a lot of the hard to find stuff like a 2" 90 with a 1" tee.[1]
Repair Tips
Temporary Hole Repair
If you ever need an emergency fix buy a coupling then cut down the middle. Then using PVC cement glue it on top of the hole and use a hose clamp until it dries.
