My home is over 50 years old, and the drain pipe in the kitchen has rusted a hole in it and the pipe to the wall is also rusted together. My husband is planning to use a small torch to heat the pipe, but I am wondering what the fire danger is if any.

Hi Dbgrant:

Fire probably not a danger issue here as long as flames don't go up the wall (or into the wall)... but flame is necessary ONLY if copper drain pipe and then only as a last resort really.

If possible, hubby may be better off CUTTING the drain pipe and attaching onto pipe using a shielded clamp (as below in picture) and then transitioning over to PVC pipe

If copper then want to purchase a copper x PVC plastic shielded clamp (available at a PLUMBING SUPPLY HOUSE). The copper pipe size could be 1.5" or 2"... best to bring piece to supply house... and then want to purchase appropriately sized copper x pvc shielded clamp.

If galvanized pipe (silver/gray pipe) then should just need a straight 1.5" or 2" shielded clamp (Plastic x plastic fits galvanized good).

Let me know if need more info. On this...

MARK