FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

Gluing ABS and PVC DWV

WillieWonka | Posted in Construction Techniques on May 23, 2003 07:55am

Ah…..a nice day of remodeling….everything going quite well as it should and then…..open up the floor and the blahs set in when you discover ABS drain pipe. Now I’m told ABS is a poor choice of drain pipe anymore (reasons never specified). In my area, Central PA, all you can get is PVC. In the remodeling process I accidentally broke the glue seal of a 90 degree ABS fitting onto a straight piece of ABS by just slightly bumping it. To replace it I have to use PVC…so…anyone have pros/cons of gluing PVC to ABS with a glue approved for both types? Or you recommend I rip out the ABS and replace with all PVC (or at least that portion of the drain line)? Seeing how VERY easy it was for me to break the glue seal on ABS makes me fret over how safe/secure the other glue joints are. I barely bumped the joint and it broke.

 

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. GUNN308 | May 23, 2003 09:08am | #1

    Sounds like someone didn't use primer before glueing I would check all joints in the ABS, to connect 2 different materials FERNCO it, as one glue doesn't work for both materials. Check all your plumbing supply houses they might have enough peices kickin around to get you out of a bind.

    1. Wet_Head | May 24, 2003 10:31am | #12

      some codes don't require primer for ABS

  2. User avater
    IMERC | May 23, 2003 09:20am | #2

    Code won't allow it. In CO anyways.

    Modular housing still uses ABS. Maybe there is a parts outlet not too far away.

    to connect ABS / PVC use a rated no-hub.

  3. 4Lorn2 | May 23, 2003 11:22am | #3

    Mixing and matching of ABS and PVC is pretty common around here. Florida. I see a lot of it when I crawl under houses to work on the power. The only thing the inspector, as of a year ago, wanted was to make sure you used a cement that was rated for both materials. This stuff is readily available at the big box. Oatly makes one type, has a red label if I remember correctly, that seems to work. It is clearly marked on the front that it can be used on PVC and ABS. The inspectors usually want to see the can and some people have taken to leaving the used can by the pressure gauge so the inspector can find it easily when he checks the pressure remaining after a test period. 

    1. User avater
      VtMike | May 23, 2003 01:28pm | #5

      I believe the cement is for either ABS OR PVC. Not meant to be used to put the two together. Code states that two dissimilar materials shall be joined by an approved connector, ie: female/male threaded or rubber coupling.

      Although I have always used PVC and ABS is getting less common around here, I have never seen a problem with it if properly installed. The same goes for PVC. If the joints are properly prepared and the pipe hung with good hangers (not plastic J-hooks) it should last for decades. ABS is lighter so it can sag easier, I don't think it cuts as cleanly and needs more attention to deburr. Because of it's color, it can be harder to see dirt on the joint before cementing. I used to get upset with the delivery person for piling PVC and Cast Iron pipe together and I would have to spend more time cleaning the tar off it.

      Yesterday I couldn't even spell plumber, today I are one.

      1. WillieWonka | May 24, 2003 07:53am | #6

        WEll, thanks for all the advice. I went out and got the red can mentioned. It says for ABS and PVC, doesn't say anything about not using it to glue the two together so what the heck, I tried it. It's still drying. After 15 minutes there was still some give in the joint if you applied a fair amount of force. Unlike PVC which has practically zero give after just a minute.

        The comment about the person not using Primer  makes sense. I bought this house from a DIYer. He was largely 50% on target and 50% way way off target. His personality is akin to overkill mixed with a few dashes of utter stupidity. I unfortunately bear the brunt as I am remodeling  his remodeled house. Go figure.

        I bought a can of primer rated for ABS. But when I read the instructions on the red can (glue) is says DO NOT PRIME ABS. Huh?? So, ok, lets see there is ABS primer, but at least with this glue I"m not to prime the ABS. So..I didn't and am left scratching my head wondering if this DIYer who is off the wall on so many other things might have done the right thing in not priming. Uggh, who knows.

        This broken joint is temporary. In the remodel process it'll be altered anyways. As long as it gets me thru the next few weeks I'll be fine.

        1. toast953 | May 24, 2003 08:41am | #7

          I've been working around plumber's since, oh, let's say , hmm , 1976, never have I 've ever seen them use anything but plain ol ABS glue, on ABS pipe. Primer I' ve seen on all the other "plastics". Just lately, more and more plumbers are using this "white" plastic pipe for DWV, I can't remember what it is called. They say it is easier to work with and stays alot straighter than ABS. Good luck on your project, keep yur glooves on, around that soil line. Jim J  in Arizona

          1. WillieWonka | May 24, 2003 08:47am | #8

            That white plasticis PVC, A.K.A Polyvinyl-chloride. It's supposedly stronger indeed and requires priming for sure.

            It seems the use of ABS vs. PVC is geographic in nature. ABS used to  be carried in my part of the country, not any longer, yet by recent posts, it's still out there and in use a good bit.

          2. Wet_Head | May 24, 2003 10:13am | #10

            ABS is primarily used by plumbers who are also closed minded to other improvements which show up.   I have pondered this issue for many years.  This is the only consistent statement you can make about the ABSers vs. the PVCers.

    2. Wet_Head | May 24, 2003 10:11am | #9

      That inspector is so wrong I don't know if I should laugh or cry.

      While the glue will work on either pipe it will not make a good connction between the 2. 

      Somebody was bamboozled...

      1. 4Lorn2 | May 25, 2003 07:30am | #13

        Joining ABS to PVC might not be the best technique but I can't say I have noticed that these joint seem to leak or break more often than joints made with the same material. Years ago I used to climb under a lot of houses. More recently fewer.

        I don't do plumbing professionally but I have asked why the glue can was left behind. I actually attempted to return it to the plumbers involved, I thought they had forgotten it, and they explained the situation. According to them the only extra provision is that the contractor prove that the multi use cement was used.

        Of course this is the deep south, where a pickup truck on blocks is considered high art in lawn decorations. The AHJ is probably happy enough just to see the residents using indoor plumbing and not hanging it off the back, the truly uncouth also use the front, porch and taking aim at the night. So the inspectors might be bringing along the population slowly.

  4. User avater
    SteveInCleveland | May 23, 2003 01:11pm | #4

    From what I've read, gluing the two dissimilar plastics is not a good idea (and does not meet code requirements) due to the fact that they have slightly different rates of expansion and contraction.  As a result, Eventually the joint can fail.  Use a no-hub coupling. 

    Whoever glued up the joint that fell apart was probably careless, as in no primer before gluing.  I would recommend checking the other joints that you have access to.  Wiping primer and ABS glue around the exterior of the existing joints can't hurt, and it could help prevent any potential pinhole leaks.

    In my area (Cleveland, OH) , for some reason Lowe's carries ABS and PVC, and Home Depot carries only PVC.

    Good luck.

  5. Wet_Head | May 24, 2003 10:31am | #11

    If it's temp just glue it with all purpose glue.  But for a permanent fix either go back in with ABS fittings or use PVC and all connections must be made with no-hub fittings.

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

FHB Summit 2025 — Design, Build, Business

Join some of the most experienced and recognized building professionals for two days of presentations, panel discussions, networking, and more.

Featured Video

Builder’s Advocate: An Interview With Viewrail

Learn more about affordable, modern floating stairs, from design to manufacturing to installation.

Related Stories

  • Affordable Scans, Accurate Plans
  • FHB Summit 2025 — Design, Build, Business
  • A Summer Retreat Preserved in the Catskill Mountains
  • Fine Homebuilding Issue #332 Online Highlights

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers
  • Issue 327 - November 2024
    • Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings
    • Plumbing Protection
    • Talking Shop

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data