Question from yellowflowers
We have a 3-4″ PVC drain pipe under our house that has come apart. With research, the only choice that I believe we have is to use toxic PVC Cement to glue it back together. I can’t seem to find any concrete information about how long it will take it completely cure and stop off-gassing. We plan to take the oppportunity to get out of the house for a while once it is glued… but how long should we (including a small child) avoid the area?
Debra’s Answer
The solvents in PVC cement are very volatile and should evaporate fairly quickly. Exactly how long it takes depends on the amount of heat and airflow.
Heat will make the cement outgas faster, an exhaust fan will help remove fumes from the area.
I suggest contacting the manufacturer to find out how long it takes to completely cure. They should have that information.
