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FJB Cleaning ServiceHow Long Does PVC Glue Take to Dry?
Under two hours is standard, but you may be able to speed up the process
Photo: Ladanifer / Adobe Stock
Photo: Ladanifer / Adobe Stock
Highlights
Between 15 minutes and 2 hours is the standard range for PVC glue drying.
Cool temperatures will help the adhesive set more quickly.
Look for quick-dry products if time is of the essence.
When working with PVC glue or cement, wear goggles and gloves.
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Whether you’re repairing PVC pipes, filling gaps, or rearranging your existing plumbing, PVC glue can be a handy substance to have on hand. You can create a tight seal in a short period of time without having to weld or solder. Plus, most of today’s products are fairly fast-acting, so you can fix any issue you have relatively quickly.
If you’re ready to tackle your next project, here’s what you need to know about PVC glue dry time, plus some additional information to know when using the product.
What Is PVC Glue?
PVC glue, also known as PVC cement, is a quick-bonding adhesive used to bond together PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, piping. It costs around $12 for a jar at home improvement stores.
The glue is composed of PVC resin and chemicals like methyl ethyl ketone and acetone, which help set the plastic tubes in place before creating a tight seal. You’ll typically use PVC glue to repair leaking pipes or to cut PVC pipes and join them together.
PVC glue/cement works by creating a chemical reaction with the plastic, slightly melting it before it sets. Using PVC glue is sometimes called cold welding for this reason.
Because it’s a permanent solution, you shouldn't glue together pipes with it that you may rearrange again soon.
PVC Glue Dry Time
Initially, you need to hold PVC glue together for 30 seconds, which is about how long it takes for the initial bonding chemical reaction to start. You may need to wait up to an additional 30 minutes for quick-drying adhesives to dry properly. Some products suggest waiting up to two hours before continuing or turning your plumbing back on.
While these are good benchmarks to wait for PVC glue to dry, it’s always best to read the instructions on your particular product and check your work to ensure you got a tight seal.
How to Make PVC Glue Dry Faster
Photo: NorGal / Adobe Stock
In a hurry? We’ve got you. Here are some things you can do to speed up PVC glue drying times.
1. Buy the Right Product
If time is of the essence, look for a fast-acting PVC glue or cement product. Most guarantee dry times under two hours, but some specifically advertise 30 minutes or less.
Consider, too, if your PVC cement product requires you to add primer first. Some do, adding at least a few minutes to your project.
2. Twist
Turn your pipes twice clockwise or counterclockwise after you join them together with PVC glue, then let them set.
Twisting the pipes together when you join them doesn’t just help create an even seal. It also helps spread the glue out evenly, making it thinner and ensuring you don’t have PVC cement clumps that’ll take longer to dry.
3. Maintain a Moderate Room Temperature
Hot or humid weather may slow down dry times. A warm room will keep even fast-acting PVC glue from sealing right away. Remember that the glue bonds to the PVC through an initial chemical melting reaction against the plastic. Cool temperatures will help the adhesive set properly.
Seriously cold weather usually doesn’t typically cause problems, but it’s important to read labels nonetheless. Many PVC glue products are rated to dry up to -15 degrees Fahrenheit. If you know you’re working in extreme temperatures, make sure the adhesive you choose can handle it (and be sure to dress warm!).
PVC Glue Safety Precautions
Carefully read instructions before working with PVC glue. Make sure you use the product in the way that the manufacturer outlines on the box or can. You should always use the right type of PVC cement for the piping you need to connect. Some products are made for specific types of pipes (i.e., PVC, ABS, or CPVC piping).
It’s always a good idea to wear gloves and eye protection when using PVC cement products. Work in a well-ventilated area to help avoid breathing in the chemicals while you use them and while they dry.
And while everyone loves a good DIY project, if your pipes are seriously leaking, it’s probably a good idea to call a local plumber to assist you. Faulty plumbing work can cost thousands of dollars to repair later.
Plumbing services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Leesburg, VA
4.6★ avg. • 1.5k total reviews
- Jessilyn S.
I can tell you, without a doubt, that Precision Plumbing (and specifically Tony) is the best Plumbing company out there. They are meticulous, knowledgeable, affordable and take pride in what they do. Look no further than this company. I can guarantee you'll be happy with the results. Thank...
Precision Plumbing & Leak Detection - FJB Cleaning Service
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Excellent Service. From the the first phone call to the finished project. He was able to accommodate me with the time requested, came on time, with alll equipment needed. Very considerate regarding parking, extremely grateful for that. Very clean and very well executed job. Went above and...
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The installation was done in an extremely professional manner. Technician Reed was knowledgeable, courteous and professional. I highly recommend Falcon for all your HVAC and plumbing needs. It is a quality company. They have my trust. Arthur D.
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All the 5 star ratings are deserved. Great company, great experience. Ben was very responsive to all my questions, and very timely on information/quotes. You name it. Cannot say enough - hire them.
Dulles Roofing, LLC - Sue W.
We were pleased with Cardinal Plumbing and would use them again.
Cardinal Plumbing Heating & Air Inc - Gary A.
Another company responded quickly and gave a competitive quote. They have their own crew and do not outsource. I wish I would have gone with another company instead of picking a pro that outsourced their work. I'll have another company do my next paint job for sure.
A & R Home Improvement - Mike T.
I had a garbage disposer that I had tried to replace myself. It was a Badger 1 that was installed with the house (about 7 years old). I replaced it with a Waste King 3200. Problem I had was the the discharge pipe for the new disposer didn't fit with the plumbing the old one used. The...
PLUMB CRAZY INC - Marsha S.
The main water line from the meter to our house was leaking. Joey came promptly to access the situation. He explained what needed to be done, provided us with a written estimate, and helped us talk with our insurance company. We could not of asked for better service. As for the workers...
JR Snider Plumbing - Joan T.
Woodbridge Plumbing was responsive when I called, offering me an opportunity to schedule an appointment at a time that had just become available due to a cancellation. The plumber arrived promptly and exercised care to use the power-driven snake that was least likely to cause any damage...
Woodbridge Plumbing Inc
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