How Do I Loosen PVC Cement?

Usage

• PVC cement should only be used on PVC piping that has been cleaned and is free of oil and chemicals. Limited exposure is important, because the cement is toxic. If skin contact occurs, rub the affected area with baby oil and remove the cement remnants.

Loosening

• Because PVC cement melds the pieces together, the cement cannot be loosened. A PVC tube cannot be removed from a joint once a chemical bond is established. After the fusion process occurs the PVC cement is no longer a separate entity and has become one with the pipe.

Solution

• Although the PVC cement cannot be loosened, there is one option available. You can cut the PVC pipe and attach a new joint. When cutting the tubing, make sure that enough room is left to attach a new joint. If you do not wish to connect a new joint you can cap it.