Planning For A New Plumbing System

By Scott Rodgers

The first step to any plumbing project is deciding where to run the pipes. This is often easier said than done because pipes are usually concealed in wall spaces by finished surfaces. Most often it is easiest to simply run new pipes in the same cavities that contain old plumbing. These spaces are already designed to allow for long, unbroken runs for pipes.

If there are some changes required for the new plumbing design, then it is better to run the pipes up from the basement. Like, you can get the bathroom drain line be dropped into the basement and then connected to the main line under the joists rather than running them over the floor joists.

Never try to cut into the floor joists or support beams as this can be risky and can weaken the whole structure. You should always consult a professional because it is important to follow the local building codes for safety. Below are some useful tips for starting your new plumbing project.

You can build a wall chase. It is a temporary wall used to cover plumbing pipes. It can be built from floor to ceiling of the home. So this plumbing can run from basement to the attic. For running new vent stacks, a chase is a good option.

Besides a wall chase, you can go for another option and that is a soffit. Unlike a wall chase it runs across the top of a wall instead of running from floor to ceiling. So, the inner pipes can run vertically to accommodate new plumbing pipes.

Another place that can be used for running new plumbing in the home is an unused laundry. They often run through most of the floors, but usually end up in the basement area as it is easier to make connections there.

A long piece of pipe can be used to check prospective plumbing routes for any obstructions. Once the route is determined to be adequate, the pipe can be a guide for running larger diameter plumbing. This is easily done by sliding the larger pipe over the guide pipe.

These are just a few different ways to run new plumbing in your home. As far as incorporating a modern plumbing framework is concerned, it is better to keep the operation to the open spaces only and not behind-the-wall areas. Of course the local officials can be consulted anytime if you look a bit uncertain about the architecture you chose. - 30517

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