Planning For A New Plumbing System

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 the new plumbing plans call for changes in the fixture layout, it may be easier to run them up from the basement. For example, instead of running a bathtub drain over floor joists, the drain line can be dropped into the basement and connected to the main drain line beneath the 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.

Build a wall chase- A chase is a false wall that is used to conceal plumbing. The chase can be stacked from floor-to-floor of the home. This allows plumbing to run from the basement to the attic. The chase is most commonly used for running new vent stacks.

Similar to the chase is the soffit. Instead of running from floor-to-ceiling, a soffit runs across the top of a wall. Inside pipes can be run vertically to accommodate new plumbing.

If you have an unused laundry space, it can be used to run new plumbing pipes. The connections are mostly made in the basement area in this case.

You can use a long pipe to check any plumbing routes. If the route is unobstructed, the guide pipe can be used for running plumbing pipes with larger diameter by placing 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.

Scott Rodgers is a noted author who has been writing on the plumbing works since a long time. His wide and well-spread knowledge has acted as a guide for a number of plumbers all over the country. To know more about bathtub fixtures replaced and bathtub faucet replacement, visit eLocalPlumbers.com.