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shengfu
Nov 6, 2006, 08:35 AM
Hi,

I just found that when the water was coming out of overflow drain of the bathtub, the PVC joint under bathtub was leaking. Is there any eay way to seal the joint without replace the PVC joint?

Thanks

Sheng

RickJ
Nov 7, 2006, 04:02 AM
Not realistically. I've seen people make the attempt with silicone... but you just end up with a mess.

If you can get to the fitting from an access panel, check it out. You probably don't need to replace the fitting. It may just be loose, or may need a washer or washers replaced.

shengfu
Nov 7, 2006, 08:27 AM
I am able to access that joint. I will try to check the washer first. Thanks!

speedball1
Nov 7, 2006, 10:04 AM
"I just found that when the water was coming out of overflow drain of the bathtub"
Those words concern me more then the leak at the trap raiser. You have a blockage downstream from the bathtub. The solution would be to snake the drain line from the lavatory roof vent. Once you remove the standing water in the trap the leak will be greatly diminished to the point of just snugging up the compression nut. Rergards, Tom

labman
Nov 7, 2006, 10:25 AM
Yeah, snake it like Tom said.

If the joint is a compression or other threaded joint, tightening the nut may work as already suggested. If not, opening it and replacing the gasket may not be too bad of a job.

Leaks in a cemented PVC joint are rare. One of the reasons I like using it. It is so easy, I can't mess up. I have managed to stop a small leak somebody else left me in a PVC drain. I got it clean and dry and smeared the regular joint cement on it. Took a couple of coats, but did the trick. I am not sure I would want to install new drywall under such a fix.

Even if you have to repair a PVC to PVC, it won't be too bad. Just cut the bad section out and couple a new one in.

dclynch
Nov 7, 2006, 02:20 PM
Would something like Power Wrap (sp) work for a leaking PVC joint?