Does electrical conduit need to be glued . Today, we’re talking about gluing PVC pipe, and more specifically, whether it actually needs to be glued. Stick around, and we’ll walk through how it’s done properly and why it matters.
Setting Up the Conduit
In this setup, we’re working with 1¼-inch trade-size PVC conduit used for communications, installed next to a 200-amp power cable feeding a new house. The communications conduit gives the service provider a path to pull their cables into the home.
The conduit runs from the house all the way up to the communications section of the utility pole. Each section of PVC pipe is cleaned and glued together as we go, ensuring a tight, sealed fit.
Expansion Joints and Frost Protection
At the transition above ground, we install an expansion joint just above grade.
This joint isn’t for the pole — it’s for ground movement caused by frost heave. It allows the conduit to flex and move with temperature changes without breaking or pulling apart.
From there, the conduit drops into a 90° elbow and follows the trench all the way along — in this case, about 100 feet in length.
Every connection needs to be thoroughly cleaned and glued to ensure long-term durability and watertightness.
Clean Connections Matter
When gluing PVC, cleanliness is key.
If sand or debris gets inside the pipe during assembly, it can affect how the solvent cement bonds — leading to weak joints that could eventually pull apart. That’s something you definitely want to avoid underground.
We always make sure the ends of the pipe are clean and smooth before applying glue. Even small particles can compromise the strength of the joint.
Using the Right Glue
Here in Canada, we use a low-VOC PVC solvent cement designed specifically for electrical conduit.
It’s a bit strong-smelling, but it’s the proper adhesive for the job.
To apply it:
- Spread the glue on the outside of the plain pipe end.
- Spread it on the inside of the bell (the flared end) of the adjoining pipe.
- Quickly push the two pieces together and hold for about 15 seconds while the glue sets.
You’ll usually see a small bead of glue squeeze out at the joint — that’s a good sign you’ve got full coverage.
Step-by-Step: Gluing Two Pieces of PVC
- Clean the ends: Remove any burrs or rough edges from the pipe you’ve cut.
- Dry fit first: Make sure your angles and bends line up before you start gluing.
- Apply the solvent cement: Coat the inside of the bell end and the outside of the mating end evenly.
- Join quickly: Insert the pipe fully into the fitting until it bottoms out.
- Hold it in place: Keep pressure on the joint for about 15 seconds to let it set.
Once joined, the connection becomes watertight and secure.
Why Gluing Is Essential
You might wonder if gluing is really necessary.
The answer is yes — always. If PVC conduit isn’t glued, frost heave and ground movement will eventually separate the joints. Once that happens, water can get into the conduit, damaging your cables and causing all kinds of problems down the line.
A properly glued conduit system will stay sealed, strong, and trouble-free for decades.
Wrapping Up
That’s the process of gluing PVC conduit — simple, but absolutely essential for a reliable underground installation.
If you found this helpful, check out our other videos by clicking the link in the corner or visiting our website, where everything is organized in a searchable format.
And remember: never perform your own electrical work — always consult a licensed electrician in your area.
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