Plumbing Basics

There are three basic plumbing systems that exist in all buildings from houses to schools, hospitals and all other types of commercial structures. Types of plumbing materials and the methods used to plumb buildings will differ depending their size as well as varied local building codes and laws. External forces such as weather, natural disasters, and geological conditions can play a role in the plumbing materials and plumbing codes enforced in new construction.
The three major components in the plumbing system are the drain waste and vent (DWV), the domestic water system, and the plumbing fixtures. This includes all water entering the building, leaving the building, and how the water is consumed.

The DWV system carries waste water from the house or structure to the public sewer lines or private sewer storage tanks such as septic tanks with drainfields. The DWV system is the first to be installed and tested during the construction process. This system is typically constructed of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or cast iron. This plumbing system is molded to ensure the free flow of drainage water from one point to another. However, they are not able to withstand water pressure. PVC uses solvents and cements to chemically bond pipe to fittings. Cast iron plumbing drains are fastened together with no hub couplings or a gasket and hub combination depending on job specification. The PVC and cast iron components described above are also call the sanitary system. Also included in the DWV system are P-traps. Every fixture with a drain must have a P-trap which is a “U” shaped bend that creates a water seal to prevent sewer odors and bacteria from entering the building through the main sewer lines. The final aspect of the DWV system is venting. The vent system in a structure ensures the drainage system maintains an equal balance. The vent system typically leads through the roof allowing the free flow of air in the lines which prevents back pressure from siphoning out the trap seals blocking sewer gases.

Next, the domestic water plumbing system carries pressurized water from city water or private wells to the building. The domestic water line leads to a water heater or boiler and distributes hot and cold water throughout the property for consumption. The most common material used for consumable water are copper, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride), or PEX (cross-linked polyethylene). Copper is bonded by soldering pipe and fittings together with a torch. CPVC is chemically bonded with solvents and cements. And PEX is fastened using a series of crimp rings and barbed brass fittings. All off these piping systems support both hot and cold water by meeting the proper temperature and pressure ratings. PVC schedule 40 pressure fittings may also be used but for plumbing cold water only. This typically is used for outdoor water lines. The PVC pressure fittings differ from the PVC DWV fittings in the amount of water pressure they are able to support.
The final components of the plumbing system are the plumbing fixtures. Fixtures make the domestic water available for use and then direct water into the DWV system. This includes bathtubs, sinks, toilets, water heaters, faucets, and any other installment supporting consumable water. Other miscellaneous items such as angle stops and supply tubes carry water from behind the wall to the plumbing fixture. Plumbing fixtures add to the aesthetic value of the building often require a great deal of design and planning. Plumbing fixtures are often specified to be ADA or handicap compliant especially in commercial installations and can be required by law. Detailed specification sheets and submittals can be requested to determine if a particular fixture is ADA compliant.

Regular maintenance is required on all aspects of the plumbing system. This can range from cleaning drain lines, replacing or repairing sanitary and domestic water lines, and remodeling fixtures for cosmetic or practical purposes. Also, local code or law changes can require upgrades to be made in certain properties. Certified Plumbing Contractor experts such as Cloud 9 Services can provide added value to a variety of plumbing problems. Plumbing professionals encompass years of experience and training to ensure the job is done correctly and that the work is in correspondence with local codes. Plumbing professionals also have the advantage of using their relationships with wholesale suppliers to get material fast and at the right price.

Cloud 9 Services, Inc. holds State of Florida Certified Plumbing Contractor, General Contractor, Mechanical Contractor and Underground Utility and Excavation Contractor's licenses. CFC1427156If you are in need of any pluming, septic or other underground utility repairs, please call Cloud 9 Services, Inc.’s at 407-481-2750 or visit our website at www.cloud9service.com.