PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a versatile plastic material used in a wide variety of applications, from plumbing pipes to furniture to flooring. When working with PVC, you may need to join pieces together or attach PVC to other materials. This often requires some type of adhesive. Construction adhesives are designed for bonding various building materials, which makes them a potential option for use with PVC. However, not all construction adhesives work well on plastics. It’s important to choose the right product and use proper techniques to create a lasting PVC bond.
Page Contents
What is PVC?
PVC or polyvinyl chloride is one of the most widely used thermoplastics. It is made from vinyl chloride monomers joined together through polymerization. PVC is popular because it is:
- Affordable
- Lightweight yet durable
- Easy to cut, shape, and join
- Resistant to chemicals, weathering, and corrosion
- Has good electrical insulating properties
These characteristics make PVC useful for:
- Pipes, fittings, and plumbing applications
- Windows, doors, and siding
- Fences, decks, and patio furniture
- Flooring
- Wire and cable insulation
- Bottles, packaging, and other food containers
- Medical devices
- Upholstery and furniture
With such diverse uses, PVC is one of the most widely produced synthetic materials in the world. However, working with PVC often requires joining pieces together, which brings up the question of what type of adhesive to use.
Challenges of Bonding PVC
PVC has a smooth, non-porous surface that can make it difficult for adhesives to bond. PVC is also flexible and can expand/contract with temperature changes. Any adhesive used needs to address these factors:
- Adhere to the slippery PVC surface
- Withstand flexing or slight movement
- Provide a long-lasting bond
Solvent cements are specifically designed for joining PVC components. They chemically melt and fuse the surfaces together to create very strong, permanent joints. However, solvent cements have some downsides:
- Limited to only PVC-to-PVC bonds
- Emit strong fumes
- Can damage PVC if too much is applied
- Take longer cure times
For these reasons, construction adhesives offer an appealing alternative for PVC bonding applications. But not just any construction adhesive will work.
Factors to Consider
When evaluating construction adhesives for PVC, there are several factors to take into account:
Adhesive Type
Construction adhesives are available in many chemical formulations. These include:
- Acrylics – Cure through solvent evaporation and create bonds through penetration into surface pores.
- Polyurethanes – Two-part adhesives that cure by chemical reaction and are more flexible when dry.
- Epoxies – Two-part adhesives that cure by chemical reaction to form rigid, durable bonds.
- Silicones – Cure when exposed to moisture in the air and resist high temperatures.
Of these options, polyurethane, epoxy, and certain acrylic-based construction adhesives are best for PVC applications.
Versatility
Some construction adhesives only bond specific material combinations while others can adhere to many different types of materials. For PVC projects, choose a versatile adhesive that bonds plastics as well as other materials like wood, metal, concrete, tile, etc.
Flexibility
Since PVC expands and contracts, the adhesive should remain somewhat flexible after curing rather than becoming completely rigid. Flexible polyurethane or acrylic-based adhesives are good choices.
Solvent Content
Some acrylic adhesives rely heavily on strong solvents for bonding. While effective, high solvent content can lead to problems like PVC warping or “crazing” – fine cracks in the surface. Low-solvent acrylic adhesives are a safer choice.
Temperature Resistance
If the PVC project will be exposed to high temperatures, use an adhesive capable of withstanding heat up to the application requirements. Epoxies can typically tolerate higher temperatures than other options.
Cure Time
How quickly an adhesive cures depends on the specific product, temperature, humidity, and other factors. Faster cure times allow projects to be handled and used sooner. Consider the required cure time for a particular application.
Clamping Required
Some adhesives produce very quick bonds that do not require clamping. Others take longer to reach full strength and need clamping during curing for best results.
Recommended Construction Adhesives for PVC
Based on the above criteria, here are some top-performing construction adhesive options for PVC projects:
Polyurethane Adhesives
- Gorilla Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive
- Loctite PL Premium Polyurethane Construction Adhesive
- Liquid Nails Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive
Polyurethane formulas are designed for flexibility and have strong adhesion to plastics. Most also bond concrete, wood, metal and more. Clamping is usually recommended during curing.
Acrylic Latex Adhesives
- Loctite PL Premium Advanced Construction Adhesive
- Loctite PL S30 Polyurethane Roof and Flashing Sealant
- Liquid Nails LN-903 Liquid Nails Adhesive for PVC
Acrylic latex adhesives provide weather-resistant bonds. Look for low solvent, flexible acrylic formulas made specifically for PVC/plastic bonding.
Epoxy Adhesives
- Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy
- J-B Weld Plastic Bonder Syringe Epoxy
Epoxies like J-B Weld are excellent for bonding PVC if high strength and heat resistance are needed. Clamping is required during cure time.
How to Use Construction Adhesive on PVC
To properly adhere PVC using construction adhesive:
- Ensure all surfaces are clean, dry, and free of any oil, grease, or debris. Lightly sanding can help improve adhesion.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses for protection.
- Apply adhesive evenly according to product directions, using the recommended tool. Avoid over-application that can lead to oozing and messes.
- With two-part epoxy adhesives, thoroughly mix resin and hardener as directed.
- Join and clamp parts together immediately. Apply even pressure across the entire bond area.
- Allow adhesive to cure for the full time specified before handling. Follow any specific cure time instructions.
- Clean up excess adhesive immediately while still wet according to product guidelines. Cured adhesive will be very difficult to remove.
Proper PVC preparation, adhesive selection, and application techniques will produce long-lasting, high-strength bonds.
Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips when using construction adhesive for PVC:
- Choose low-solvent, flexible adhesive formulas designed specifically for plastic bonding.
- Only apply adhesive to one surface being joined unless directions specify otherwise.
- Avoid using too much adhesive which can weaken or damage PVC.
- Join parts accurately the first time since slippage after contact can compromise the bond.
- Apply steady even clamping pressure to maximize adhesive contact and strength.
- Let adhesive fully cure before stressing or putting weight on the bond.
Proper product selection matched with good application techniques will provide durable, long-lasting bonds between PVC components or when attaching PVC to other materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use construction adhesive on all types of PVC?
Most construction adhesives compatible with PVC can bond to the common types like PVC drain pipes and fittings, Schedule 40 PVC, furniture grade PVC sheets, and expanded PVC foam board. Specialty adhesive may be needed for some high-performance PVCs designed for extreme conditions.
What’s the best construction adhesive for exterior PVC?
For outdoor PVC projects, use weatherproof polyurethane, acrylic latex, or epoxy adhesives. Loctite PL Premium Polyurethane and Loctite PL S30 are top choices that resist water, sun, and extreme temperatures.
Can I use construction adhesive to bond PVC cove molding?
Yes, flexible polyurethane or acrylic latex construction adhesives work well to install PVC cove molding on walls and ceilings. Look for a product that specifically bonds plastics and remains somewhat flexible when cured.
Is PVC glue the same as construction adhesive?
No. PVC glue refers to solvent cements which chemically melt and fuse PVC together. Construction adhesives cure through evaporation or chemical reaction to create a structural bond between the PVC and the other surface. They are safer and easier to use than solvent cements.
How long does it take for construction adhesive to cure on PVC?
Cure times vary by product from 30 minutes to several hours or longer. Check the product specifications and follow adhesive manufacturer recommendations for PVC applications. Using the right adhesive for the specific PVC project will provide optimal cure times.
Conclusion
Construction adhesives can provide very effective, long-lasting bonds with PVC when the right products are used properly. Key factors to consider are adhesive type, flexibility, solvent content, temperature resistance, cure time, and clamping requirements. Leading options include polyurethane, acrylic latex, and epoxy-based adhesives designed for plastic bonding. Follow all preparation, application, clamping, and cure time directions to achieve successful results. With the right construction adhesive and proper techniques, do-it-yourselfers can complete PVC projects that will stand the test of time.