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PVC is so easy to work with, putting it together is most of the fun. There are two sure-fire methods to assemble a PVC project, each with its strengths and weaknesses, which are outlined below.
As with any do-it-yourself project, always be sure to wear the proper protection when cutting or using chemicals.
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| METHOD | BOND TYPE | STRENGTH | EXPLANATION |
| PVC Cement | Permanent | Extremely Strong/ Chemical Weld | PVC Cement does not ‘glue’ the pieces of PVC together; it is actually a chemical that melts the PVC for about 30-50 seconds in order to weld other PVC segments or fittings to each other. |
| Set Screw | Temporary/ Removable | Strong, but unreliable | Set Screws are small fasteners that are screwed through the PVC fitting and into the PVC pipe wall where they meet. The fitting-to-pipe connection, even without PVC cement, is extremely tight and the set screws merely keep the pipe from leaving the fitting socket. |
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DRY FIT: |
By using PVC cement, available at your local hardware store or home center, you can make a permanent connection between the PVC fitting and PVC pipe. In reality, the PVC cement does not cement or glue PVC to itself; but rather, it melts or fuses the plastics together, providing a cohesive bond between the fitting and pipe.

To assemble a PVC project using PVC cement, you will need the following:
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Make sure that you are in a well-ventilated area, as PVC cement tends to have a strong, and sometimes irritating, odor. | ![]() |
An optional step is to clean the areas of the fitting and PVC pipe with a PVC cleaner or primer. This will guarantee a secure bond, and is recommended. Run the primer/cleaner dauber around the outside of the PVC pipe and the inside of the fitting. |
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Apply the PVC cement to both the PVC pipe and the fitting, where they will be joined using the PVC cement dauber, to where the PVC pipe and fitting will come into contact. If using a primer or cleaner, apply the cement while the primer/cleaner is still wet. | ![]() |
Insert the pipe into the fitting, being sure that it is into the fitting to the point of impacting the detent. Hold the pipe and fitting together firmly for 30 seconds. |
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Allow the pipe and fitting connection to set for at least 2 minutes to cure before putting weight or additional pressure on it. You can join other fittings, while waiting for the cure time to complete. |
By using the ‘Set Screw Method’, you can make a strong, yet temporary connection between the PVC fitting and PVC pipe. This method uses small wood screws that will allow you to remove the fitting later for adjustments to the pipe or your application.

To assemble a PVC project using Set Screws, you will need the following:
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Insert the pipe into the fitting and use a scrap piece of wood and hammer to tap into place until it makes contact with the detent in the fitting. | ![]() |
Drill a small hole 1/2 of an inch from the bottom of the fitting on one side, through both the fitting and the pipe. |
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An optional step is to use a countersink bit to allow the end of the wood screw to set inside the fitting. This will leave a flush, smooth surface. | ![]() |
Drive the wood screw into the fitting and PVC pipe securely. |
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Repeat on other sides of the fitting for a more secure connection. |
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