Hi,

A plumber was replacing some plumbing in our shower area. He connected two 2" PVC pipes that ran directly into each other with a Fernco Neoprene Coupling. In another place, he connected two 3" PVC pipes that ran directly into each other with a second Fernco Neoprene Coupling. In both cases he could have instead used a PVC repair coupling and glue. These connections run horizontally underneath where the new shower pan will be poured. They will therefore be inaccessible without significant demolition in the future. It seems like a PVC repair coupling with glue would be more likely to last longer into the future than the Fernco Neoprene Couplings. Should I ask him to change them? Or are the Fernco Neoprene Couplings completely fine?

Thanks so much! Doug

Ps. I read the related post here:


https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/plumbing/hesitation-about-fernco-neoprene-coupling-hidden-wall-12223.html

A PVC coupling would be my preference but a Fernco should last a good long time and is acceptable. The plumber may nothave had enough wiggle room to get a rigid PVC coupling in place and a Fernco can be distorted.

It seems like a PVC repair coupling with glue would be more likely to last longer into the future than the Fernco Neoprene Couplings. Should I ask him to change them? Or are the Fernco Neoprene Couplings completely fine?
I don't recommend using neoprene couplings for exactly the reason Bob gives in his post. They can distort. If not bedded well they can sag and create a bell. I prefer a more ridged coupling.
Here's my take on it in the order of use.
1) A primed and glued PVC Coupling
2) A Fernco Shielded Metal Coupling **and last**
3) A Fernco Neoprene Couplinhg

Thank you both for your feedback -- I really appreciate it! Doug