Are you experiencing a leak in your drain pipes? Do you need help repairing a drain line? If you want to save money in repairing a drain line, you should try to repair the pipes yourself. 

If you’re dealing with a PVC drain pipe, you’re lucky. These drain pipes are easy to fix with the right tools and materials. You can repair these pipes without putting a strain on your pocket by simply identifying the location of the leak and applying the right solution. The following are some options for dealing with common drain line issues. 

1. Minor leaks  

If you’re dealing with a minor leak in a part of the pipe that is easy to access, you can apply repair tape to the pipe. Repair tape is gummy, sticky and stretchy. It will help to seal the leaking spot. You can also apply the tape to joints and bends. Wrapped tightly, the tape will provide compression that will deal with the leaking. Tape is effective to use in areas that are easy to access. You can use it effectively if you’re working in a tight space. 

Another solution for small leaks is to use fiberglass wraps. Like tape, these can be applied to joints and around pipes. However, you have to wait at least 15 minutes for the resin to harden and prevent further leaking. 

2. Major leaks 

If you’re dealing with a major leak such as burst pipe, it is important to act quickly to prevent severe water damage to your property. Identify the source of the leak, inspect the leaking spot and determine if there are any other sources of leaks along the line. 

Shut off the mains shutoff valve. If there is a secondary shutoff valve that is close to the area of the leak, you can shut that valve off instead and isolate the affected area. Turn on the faucets in your home to drain water out of the pipes completely. 

In the case of a burst or broken pipe, you will need to replace the damaged section. Use a hacksaw or ratchet cutter to cut the pipe at least 1 inch on either side of the damaged part. You can cut a bigger section for peace of mind. It is likely that there may be more damage than meets the eye in the section. You will spare yourself having to repair the damage once again by cutting out a bigger section. Allow any excess water to drain out of the pipe.

Dry fit the fittings that you will use to replace the damaged section with. When you have confirmed that the fittings are the right size, apply PVC primer solvent on the inside of the fitting you will use to replace the damaged pipe section. Apply the primer to the outside of the existing pipe. Apply glue to the existing pipe and the inside of the replacement fitting. Slide the existing pipe into the new fitting and twist slightly to spread and secure the glue. Hold the pipe in position for at least 15 seconds to ensure a strong bond.