How to make joints in waste pipes

Not the most glamorous of jobs but probably one of the most important. Here's how you make joints in your waste pipes.

Level of difficulty

Level 2: Intermediate

What you need

• Deburring tool
• Chemical cleaner
• Solvent weld
• Silicone lubricant
• Pen

The steps to follow

Note:
Your waste pipe and fittings must all come from the same range as the existing pipe. Remember to clean your pipes before you make the joints. Here are three of the most common ways to make joints in a waste pipe.

I. Solvent weld waste joints:
a. Cut the pipe.
b. Clean the burred edges with a deburring tool and clean the ends with a chemical cleaner.
c. Insert the pipe until it reaches the end, and mark this length.
d. Coat on solvent weld to the marked area where the pipe and fitting will be in contact.
e. Push the pipe into the fitting; twist it so that it tightens.
f. Let it dry for about 2 hours.

II. Push-fit waste joints
a. The ends of the push-fit joints must be tapered to a 45 degree with a deburring tool.
b. Before assembling the joint, apply a coat of silicone lubricant on the rubber seal.
c. Mark the pipe, and allow 3 mm (1/8 in) to accommodate thermal expansion.

III. Compression waste joints
a. Cut the pipe to the required length, leaving an extra 20 mm (.8 in) at the ends of the pipe.
b. Clean the ends with a deburring tool.
c. Thread the fitting onto the pipe and tighten the nut.