Screw in Waste Pipe

[Billy Beru]

Hello:

I need some advice. I was installing shelves in a closet and while driving a screw realized from the feel of it that it was not going into a stud but rather a verical PVC waste pipe from the bathroom upstairs ( I remembered the pipe being there after the fact). It is not leaking, but the question is, should I repair it now? I did a search for similar problems but all seemed to recommend a coupler. It is a large pipe (probably 3.5 inch) with no clearance behind the drywall, so I'm not sure how a coupler would work out. As I am not a plumber, just a DIYer, any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

Bill

[Redwood]

The pipe would probably be 3"ID pipe or possibly 4"ID

The way I usually take care of these is to get a slip coupling, cut a section out of it as shown below, then prime and glue it up, snap it on turn it a bit to get a good bond then hold it tight for a bit.

Your wall clearance sounds like it may be a problem.

[kingsotall]

If this is a hack fix then shoot it down...
Would a section of a fernco coupling, enough to create a tight seal and then the hose clamps tightened down do the trick¿ For sure the clamps would slip through the tight clearance between the pipe and wall.

[Redwood]

A section of fernco would never make a seal and to get a whole one in place you would have to cut in 2 places. Then pull out a section and put 2 fernco proflexes or, no-hubs in place.

[nhmaster]

A section of fernco would never make a seal and to get a whole one in place you would have to cut in 2 places. Then pull out a section and put 2 fernco proflexes or, no-hubs in place.

Worling in condo's I can't begin to tell you haow mayn times the idiots that install the shelving, screw thorugh the pipe. I have made this same repair many many times with great sucess. Glad to know I'm not the only one out there that's done it.

[Billy Beru]

The way I usually take care of these is to get a slip coupling, cut a section out of it as shown below, then prime and glue it up, snap it on turn it a bit to get a good bond then hold it tight for a bit.

Your wall clearance sounds like it may be a problem.

Thanks Redwood. I like the idea of using a slip coupling cut to size. I think I can deal with the wall clearance by getting creative with my drywall patch. After all, it is in the closet.