How we repair a cracked PVC reticulation pipe
A cracked lateral pipe is a common cause of a retic leak. The animation shows how our technicians repair one with a slip fix (a telescopic repair coupling), then compares two kinds of PVC solvent and two other repair methods.
Rather not dig it up yourself? Book a repair and we'll find the leak and fix it.

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Prime first, then PVC solvent — pipe end and socket
What you’re looking at
- Primer, then PVC solvent
- Both the pipe end and the fitting's socket are primed, then coated with PVC solvent, and the joint is pushed home with a quarter turn and held for about 30 seconds.
- Regular PVC solvent
- Needs dry pipe. Allow 24 hours before full pressure, but always check the tin.
- Wet & dry PVC solvent
- Bonds even when the pipe is wet, and gets the system back in service sooner. The tin gives the pressure time.
- Compression coupling
- A mechanical seal with no glue, so the water can go straight back on.
Rather have a technician sort it?
Our team does this work across Perth every week. Call (08) 6263 4644 or send a booking enquiry.
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