Are you in the process of building a bathroom and need to raise a p-trap in a joist bay?
Or maybe you’re looking for an alternative to the standard plastic p-traps available at your local home improvement store.
Whatever your reason may be, constructing your own p-trap using PVC pipe and elbows is a viable option.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of making a PVC p-trap and provide some helpful tips along the way.
So, let’s get started!
How To Make A Pvc P-trap
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials. You’ll need PVC pipe, 90-degree elbows, a hacksaw or PVC cutter, PVC primer and cement, and a measuring tape.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Your PVC Pipe
Measure the length of the horizontal section of your p-trap and cut a piece of PVC pipe to that length. This will be the main section of your p-trap.
Step 3: Add Your Elbows
Attach a 90-degree elbow to each end of the horizontal section of your p-trap. Make sure they are facing in opposite directions.
Step 4: Measure and Cut Your Vertical Sections
Measure the distance from the bottom of your bathtub drain to the top of your horizontal section. Cut two pieces of PVC pipe to this length.
Step 5: Attach Your Vertical Sections
Attach one vertical section to each elbow, making sure they are facing upwards towards the bathtub drain.
Step 6: Connect Your P-trap
Apply PVC primer and cement to each joint and connect all sections together. Make sure everything is securely attached and allow time for the cement to dry.
What Is A P-trap And Why Is It Important?
A P-trap is a crucial component of any plumbing system that uses a drain and accepts sanitary waste from tubs, showers, and sinks. It is a specialized fitting that creates a barrier that stops sewer gas and odor from entering your home. The trap is shaped like a “P” and can be found under sinks, tubs, and showers. It holds just enough water to create an airtight seal that prevents sewer gas from backing up into your home.
The main purpose of a P-trap is to trap noxious sewer gases inside the wastewater system so that they can’t rise back up through the drain. Running water down a drain flushes water through the trap and down into the drain line. However, when you shut the faucet off, a small amount of water always remains inside the bend at the bottom of the P-trap. This water acts as a barrier that seals off the pipe so that the smelly sewer gases can’t escape.
The P-trap also serves another important purpose by helping to prevent your drain line from being clogged. Any food or other solid particles you wash down the drain usually stay inside the bend in the P-trap. If your sink is clogged and won’t drain, the clog is usually located inside the P-trap itself. This is actually not a bad thing as unclogging the P-trap is generally far easier than removing an obstruction further down inside the drainage system.
Plumbing codes require a P-trap to be installed anywhere there is an open drain line that expels wastewater into a drain waste-vent system. The P-trap traps solids that can clog the drain or sewer line and stops sewer gases from backing into your home through the drain line. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your plumbing system has a functioning P-trap to maintain proper hygiene and prevent any unpleasant odors from entering your home.
Materials Needed For Making A PVC P-trap
To make a PVC p-trap, the following materials are needed:
1. PVC pipe
2. 90-degree elbows
3. Hacksaw or PVC cutter
4. PVC primer and cement
5. Measuring tape
Make sure to gather all these materials before starting to make your PVC p-trap. The PVC pipe will be cut to the appropriate length and elbows will be attached to both ends of the horizontal section of the p-trap. Two vertical sections will also need to be cut to the appropriate length and attached to each elbow, facing upwards towards the bathtub drain. Finally, all sections will be connected using PVC primer and cement, ensuring everything is securely attached and allowing time for the cement to dry.
Assembling The PVC P-trap
Assembling the PVC P-trap is a simple process that can be done with just a few tools and materials. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials. You’ll need PVC pipe, 90-degree elbows, a hacksaw or PVC cutter, PVC primer and cement, and a measuring tape.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Your PVC Pipe
Measure the length of the horizontal section of your p-trap and cut a piece of PVC pipe to that length. This will be the main section of your p-trap.
Step 3: Add Your Elbows
Attach a 90-degree elbow to each end of the horizontal section of your p-trap. Make sure they are facing in opposite directions.
Step 4: Measure and Cut Your Vertical Sections
Measure the distance from the bottom of your bathtub drain to the top of your horizontal section. Cut two pieces of PVC pipe to this length.
Step 5: Attach Your Vertical Sections
Attach one vertical section to each elbow, making sure they are facing upwards towards the bathtub drain.
Step 6: Connect Your P-trap
Apply PVC primer and cement to each joint and connect all sections together. Make sure everything is securely attached and allow time for the cement to dry.
Remember, when assembling your PVC P-trap, it’s important to measure carefully and make sure all joints are securely attached with primer and cement. With these simple steps, you can easily create a functional and effective P-trap for your plumbing needs.
Benefits Of Making Your Own PVC P-trap
There are several benefits to making your own PVC p-trap. First and foremost, it can save you money. Purchasing a pre-made p-trap can be expensive, especially if you need a specific size or shape. Making your own allows you to customize it to fit your specific needs and budget.
Another benefit is that it can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. You’ll learn new skills and gain a sense of accomplishment from creating something useful with your own hands.
Making your own PVC p-trap also gives you more control over the quality of the materials used. You can choose high-quality PVC pipe and fittings that will last longer and be more durable than cheaper, pre-made options.
Finally, making your own PVC p-trap allows you to be more environmentally friendly. By using PVC pipe and fittings that can be recycled, you’re reducing waste and helping to protect the environment.
Overall, making your own PVC p-trap is a cost-effective, customizable, and environmentally friendly option that can provide a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.