How do PVC sewer lines get sloped using 90 degree fittings?

In summary, when installing PVC sewer plumbing, the recommended minimum slope of 1/4 inch per foot for horizontal pipes can be achieved by either installing the vertical pipes not perfectly vertical or by slightly adjusting the 90 degree fitting when connecting the vertical and horizontal pipes. It is also possible to glue the pipes in the fitting without worrying about the slope and then bending the pipes slightly to achieve the desired slope. Additionally, it has been suggested that a nominal 90 degree fitting may actually turn more than 90 degrees, allowing for enough give to achieve the recommended slope. There are varying opinions on how much a pipe should be sloped, with some recommending 1/4 inch drop per foot for 2 inch pipes and smaller, and others suggesting
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Stephen Tashi
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TL;DR Summary
A geometrically pefect horizontal pipe attached to a vertical pipe witha 90 deg fitting wouldn't have any slope. So how, in practice, do horizontal sewer lines get sloped?
Diagrams of PVC sewer plumbing show vertical pipes connected to horizontal pipes with fittings that make a 90 degree turn. So how, in practice, do we achieve the recommended minimum 1/4 inch per foot slope for the horizontal pipes?

Do we make the horizontal pipe slope by installing the vertical pipes not perfectly vertical?

Or do we install the pipes in the 90 degree fitting slightly askew?

Or do we glue the pipes in the fitting without worrying about the slope and then bend the pipes slightly so he horizontal pipe has slope?

Or perhaps a nominal 90 degree fitting actually turns more than 90 degrees?
 
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The beauty of PVC drain pipe is there is enough give to get that kind of slope when transitioning from vertical to horizontal. I have been told two different stories on how much a pipe should be sloped. 1/4 inch drop per foot of run is recommended for 2 inch pipe and smaller. I have had a plumbing inspector tell me 1/4 inch drop per foot on anything larger than 2 inch pipe also, and another reliable source says only 1/8 inch drop per foot on anything larger than 2 inch pipe.
 

1. How do PVC sewer lines get sloped using 90 degree fittings?

PVC sewer lines are sloped using 90 degree fittings by carefully measuring and calculating the required slope for proper drainage. The fittings are then installed at the appropriate angles to achieve the desired slope.

2. Why is it important for PVC sewer lines to have a slope?

A slope in PVC sewer lines is important because it allows for gravity to pull the wastewater towards the main sewer line and eventually to the treatment plant. Without a slope, the wastewater would not flow properly and could lead to clogs and backups.

3. How is the slope of PVC sewer lines determined?

The slope of PVC sewer lines is determined by the size of the pipe and the distance it needs to travel. Generally, a slope of 1/4 inch per foot is recommended for horizontal runs, and a slope of 1/8 inch per foot for vertical runs.

4. Can 90 degree fittings be used to create a slope in all types of terrain?

Yes, 90 degree fittings can be used to create a slope in all types of terrain. However, in some cases, additional fittings or adjustments may be needed to ensure the proper slope is achieved.

5. Are there any alternatives to using 90 degree fittings for sloping PVC sewer lines?

Yes, there are alternative methods for sloping PVC sewer lines, such as using adjustable fittings or using different types of fittings, such as 45 degree or 22.5 degree fittings. However, 90 degree fittings are the most commonly used and efficient method for creating a slope in PVC sewer lines.

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