Prepare and install the tub drain and overflow by planning exact alignment and fitting all PVC components dry before any adhesive touches the parts.

Start by measuring the tub tailpiece and overflow locations, then dry-fit the PVC trap adapter, long tailpiece, and overflow elbow to confirm alignment with the wall drain and structural studs. Cut PVC pipe square with a fine-tooth saw and deburr the edges inside and out to prevent gaps that trap debris or stress the glue joint. For the tub drain flange, press plumber’s putty under the outer lip and tighten the drain body evenly from below using a proper tub drain wrench until snug but not over-torqued, wiping excess putty away; the putty forms a seal against the tub surface while the threaded connection holds mechanically. Clean all PVC joint surfaces with a PVC cleaner or primer, apply a uniform coat of solvent cement, and assemble quickly with a quarter turn twist to spread the glue, holding for the specified set time to avoid movement. When installing the overflow, fit the gasketed faceplate to the tub and thread the overflow elbow to create a smooth inside path; test for vertical alignment so water does not pool at the elbow and so the overflow outlet lines up with the interior overflow opening. Once assembled, perform a standing water test by plugging the drain and filling the tub to the overflow level then checking beneath for any leaks; also run a dye test by pouring a small colored water stream into the overflow to confirm that the inside connection carries water to the drain line without bypassing the tub cavity.

Common mistakes start with skipping the dry-fit step which leads to misaligned joints and stress on glued connections; avoid this by fully assembling without glue, marking orientations, then disassembling for final gluing. Another frequent error is using too much plumber’s putty or using it where a rubber gasket is required which can prevent proper sealing; use putty only under the drain flange on metal or composite tubs and ensure gaskets are placed where the manufacturer specifies. A third problem is failing to clean and prime PVC before solvent cement which produces weak or leaky joints; always wipe surfaces clean, use primer for schedule two or three PVC systems, apply the correct cement, and give recommended cure times before subjecting the assembly to water or stress.

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