Is PVC cement/solvent safe?

[Latitude_change]

I am looking to use PVC pipe to create a shelf in my sump and possibly a shelf for LR to create caves, etc. Is regular PVC cement safe to use? Is there something else I should use? Thanks!

 

[fijiwigi]

I just used regular PVC glue for my return plumbing no problems at all.

 

[tamra&steven]

ya it should be safe just not sure how much weight your shelf will be able to hold up, use supports too.

 

[Latitude_change]

Thanks for the help and advice. I decided to just go for it this weekend. No problems, and it was pretty easy. I let it cure overnight and strong as can be.

 

[Ziggy953]

Make sure to rinse the pipes off really well before putting them in your tank. Oh and the glue should be dry before use as well.

 

[pitt420dude]

How about caulk, just normal 100% silicone caulk, is this safe to use when cured?

 

[Latitude_change]

What exactly are you trying to caulk? Type I silicone is safe. Type II is not. Type II has a milder additive.

 

[pitt420dude]

I dunno, just anything, like PVC or wood, possibly to fix leaks in tubing or equipment. Just any use really.

 

[Ziggy953]

If you are going to have some silicone on hand then I suggest stopping by wal-mart and picking up (in the pet department) aquarium silicone. They sell tubes of it for $5 or so. It is aquarium safe and works. I keep a couple of tubes on hand just in case.

This will eliminate the guessing or not knowing for sure if a product is safe for use in the aquarium. HTH

 

[BillD]

There is no guessing, GE Silicone I for windows and doors, is safe for use in aquariums, as are a number of other brands that say "ideal for aquariums" on the label and are around $4 for a caulking gun sized tube.

 

[ccCapt]

There is no guessing, GE Silicone I for windows and doors, is safe for use in aquariums,

Agree. That's the stuff I always use.

 

[ezy33]

Let any sealers or glue cure for 24 hours (aquarium safe of course).