I'm in the process of building a boot dryer for my workplace and I've hit a snag. I want to attach several short 1-inch PVC pieces coming off a main 1.5-inch piece at right angles. Instead of using traditional tee fittings, I'm thinking about drilling holes through the 1.5-inch pipe and sliding the 1-inch pipes in, as it would save space. I've got a drill press and feel confident about making a jig for precise cuts. My main concern is whether the connection will be airtight. Will regular PVC contact cement do the trick, or should I use both contact cement and caulk? Has anyone had experience with this method?
2 Answers
I haven't done this myself, but I think a snug fit should be enough for your project. Adding some caulk wouldn’t hurt either. If you're really worried about the airtight seal, consider using epoxy and fiberglass around the joints for extra strength. For your sizes, a 1.5" main line with 3/4" risers could work well, and using a 1-inch hole saw should get you pretty close. Just a tad of sanding may be needed to fit everything nicely. Also, make sure the hot air from the dryer isn't too hot; it shouldn’t soften the PVC, but CPVC might be a smarter choice since it can handle heat better.
Definitely go with silicone! It's the same stuff used in aquariums, so it’s super reliable. It can create a strong, waterproof seal and is perfect for what you're doing. As for curing time, it usually doesn’t take too long, but you might want to give it at least 24 hours to set properly.
Thanks! I’ll keep that in mind for when I seal it!
What's the typical curing time for silicone before it holds the PVC? I’m curious!