When it comes to your plumbing, one thing you don’t want to mess up with is code violations. Building codes are in effect to protect your health and safety and the health and safety of others. Building codes can vary from city to city, and state to state. There are also different building codes depending on the type of building. Code violations can cause a wealth of problems. Aside from putting your safety at risk, code violations can also cause plumbing problems, damage to the property, and prevent a real estate transaction. Here are some of the most common code violations when it comes to plumbing.
Cleanouts provide a maintenance access point for a plumbing system. The number of cleanouts will depend on the size of the plumbing system. Typically, cleanouts should be no more than 100’ apart and should be installed at each change of direction more than 45 degrees. The placement of cleanouts also matters. For example; cleanouts should not be placed in close vicinity to a food prep area, for sanitary reasons.
Another common code violation for plumbing is an improper slope. Pipes that have a 3” diameter should have an 1/8” per foot pitch to allow for proper drainage. Variances can lead to leaks and poor drainage, plumbing problems that can easily be avoided by paying attention to building codes.
Using the wrong fittings for changes in direction can also cause some issues. Anything that obstructs the flow of water can lead to plumbing problems. That is why it is really important to pay attention to the fittings to ensure that the right materials are being used.
Bathroom venting is another common code violation when it comes to plumbing. Vents in the bathroom are designed to remove steam and odors from the bathroom. They should lead outdoors, however, sometimes they end up leading to an attic space, which can be a bad thing. Excess moisture, porous surfaces, and heat are the perfect breeding ground for mold. To prevent this from happening, building codes state that vent fans need to lead outside.
Not having enough space around the toilet is one of the most common code violations when it comes to plumbing. Building codes state that a toilet, measured from the centerline should be no less than 15”.
Building codes are put in place to help a plumbing system function the way it is supposed to. It is important to have a plumbing inspection performed when you purchase a home to make sure there are no code violations. Code violations can occur for a variety of reasons, and hiring a professional plumber is the best way to avoid code violations when it comes to plumbing. Contact us to learn more.
Our philosophy is simple, we always want to maintain equipment to give it the longest life possible. Next, we want to focus on repairing when something goes wrong. Then only as the last choice, we replace equipment when needed. That’s the John Owens Way.
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