Guest Post From Weld-On/IPS: Best Practices for Cold-Weather Pipe Installation
Freezing temperatures are rarely easy on any construction project, but sometimes the job must be done, regardless of the cold weather.
If you’re installing a FlowGuard Gold plumbing system in freezing conditions, it’s important to use the right products and follow additional recommendations to ensure they perform as expected and stand the test of time.
Selecting Cement
Weld-On solvent cements have excellent cold weather stability and are formulated to have well-balanced drying characteristics in sub-freezing temperatures. By following Weld-On’s standard instructions and using a little extra care and patience, successful solvent cemented joints can be made at temperatures as low as -15 degrees F.
At low temperatures, solvent cements penetrate the surfaces of plastic pipe and fittings more slowly than at higher temperatures. Because of this, allow for a longer cure time due to the slower evaporation time in cold weather.
Key Tips for Cold Weather Installation with Weld-On Solvent Cements:
- Prefabricate as much of the system as possible in a heated environment.
- Make sure cement remains fluid, and store bulk quantities in a warm location above 40 degrees F when not in use. Use small containers to transport the cements from the storage area to the work-site.
- If your Weld-On solvent cement is stored at very cold temperatures and gels, it can be reconstituted by bringing it into a warm environment (60 to 90 degrees F) and letting it sit for 24 hours. Do not try artificially heat the product. Before use, make sure to vigorously shake the solvent cement.
- Remove moisture, including ice and snow, from the surfaces to be joined, especially from the ends of the pipe as well as fittings and valve sockets.
- Make sure the pipe, fittings and valves are all at the same temperature prior to solvent cementing.
- Allow for a longer cure period before pressure-testing the system. To speed up the cure time, a heated blanket may be used.
- Read and follow all the directions before installation.
