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CPVC solvent was used on PVC pipes. Is this okay?

I am having my basement finished. The builder contracted someone who used the yellow CPVC cement (solvent) on the PVC piping. I was concerned that this would cause me problems in the future with the pipes leaking. I could not understand why the recommended solvent was not used. Should I request the pipes be redone with the correct cement?

Janice Mcgowen
consumer - Cumming, Georgia, USA
February 26, 2009

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First of two simultaneous responses --

It works, but it does not work as well as regular PVC cement does. Look for purple primer on the joints. If it is not there, it is not a professional job and I would make a strong complaint that it does not follow the local or regional codes and they should replace it.
If your pipes are yellow, then they are CPVC for the hot water and the CPVC cement needs to be used.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
February 27, 2009

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Second of two simultaneous responses --

Janice,

From personal experience I do not think you would have a problem. The solvent in the CPVC solvent cement is more aggressive since the CPVC is more chemical resistant. I have done this same thing numerous times over the years without problem. If the job passes code inspection I think you will be alright.

Gene Packman
process supplier - Great Neck, New York
February 28, 2009