Three Mistakes to Avoid When Using Solvent Cement

Solvent cement is a quick and easy way to fuse PVC pipe and fittings together. When applied to pipe and fittings, the cement melts a thin layer that solidifies after being put together, forming a seamless, waterproof seal.

But there’s no room for error—if you’ve made a mistake, you’ll need to cut off the piece and start again. Common mistakes include working with solvent cement on the wrong days, using too much or using too little.

If you try to work on the wrong day, you may not see success with your solvent cement. What’s the wrong day? A hot, windy day speeds up evaporation, causing the drying time to decrease, sometimes leaving you with just seconds to weld the pieces together.

Using too much solvent cement can cause the PVC to dissolve to the point of weakening the joint, lessening the integrity of its waterproof capabilities.

However, if you use too little solvent cement, the pieces may not be fully welded together, which may lead to leaks or other problems down the road.

Try these three solvent cement options available at your local Ewing store for your next project.

Weld-On® 905ECO™ is the first eco-friendly cement with 15 percent less solvent emissions. As a sustainable solution from Ewing, this solvent cement option gives you the same results as other medium-bodied, fast set PVC cements with fewer odorous fumes.

Christy Red Hot Blue Glue is known as the original blue glue. It’s quick to bond PVC pipe and fittings, helping you be more efficient and increase jobsite productivity. The Red Hot Blue Glue works in wet, dry or humid conditions and can be used without a primer (where codes permit).

Weld-On® 705™ PVC cement is a high-strength formula. It can be used without a primer on non-pressure systems (where codes permit).

Have you made one of these mistakes? What advice would you give to someone in that same situation? Leave a comment below!