PVC Pipe Cementing Procedures

Use a cleaner to prepare your pipe and eliminate any coatings, dust, or debris that may have accumulated.

Use a Primer to soften the PVC and prepare it to accept the cement.

Use Cement to perform the chemical bonding process that forms a good PVC joint.

Typically, it is preferred to establish a PVC joint in temperatures from 40 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, though a PVC bond can be formed in lower temperatures as long as the cement is liquid. We do carry "All-Temperature" cement formulated for use in lower temperature environments.

Pipe size, fit of the socket, temperature, humidity, cement, and operating pressure should all be taken into account when calculating cure times. Use the chart below as a guideline for estimating cure time:

Nominal Size	OK to Move Joint	OK to apply 10% of Rated Pipe Pressure	OK to apply 100% of Rated Pipe Pressure
HOT WEATHER- 90 to 150 degree F Surface Temperature
1/2 thru 1-1/4"	1/4 hr.	1 hr.	4 hrs.
1-1/2 thru 2-1/2"	1/2 hr.	1-1/2 hrs.	6 hrs.
2-1/2 thru 4"	3/4 hr.	2-3/4 hrs.	8 hrs.
Over 4"	1 hr.	3-1/2 hrs.	10 hrs.
MILD WEATHER- 50-90 degree F Surface Temperature
1/2 thru 1-1/4"	1/3 hr.	1 hr.	5 hrs.
1-1/2 thru 2-1/2"	3/4 hr.	1-3/4hrs.	8 hrs.
2-1/2 thru 4"	1 hr.	3-1/2 hrs.	15 hrs.
Over 4"	1-1/2 hrs.	4 hrs.	20 hrs.
COLD WEATHER- 0-50 degree F Surface Temperature
1/2 thru 1-1/4"	1/2 hr.	1-3/4 hrs.	7 hrs.
1-1/2 thru 2-1/2"	3/4hr.	3 hrs.	10 hrs.
2-1/2 thru 4"	1-1/3 hrs.	6hrs.	18 hrs.
Over 4"	2-1/2 hrs.	12 hrs.	30 hrs.

Applicators are typically included inside the lid of the can. This applicator can be used to apply cement up to 3". Beyond that, use a brush with a width of 1/2 the diameter of the pipe.

Don't use cement which doesn't look right. If it is gelled or lumpy, discard it - the solvents have evaporated, and the remaining compound is useless for forming PVC joints.

Apply cement to the pipe and to the fittings while the primer is still wet for maximum bond strength.