Pipe protection Problems.
New construction is always a fun time for an
inspector. There’s so much to look for, and
not everyone will interpret code requirements in
exactly the same way, which can lead to some
interesting discussions. These interpretations are
why it is a good idea to contact the local building
department if you have any uncertainty about how
a code is going to be interpreted and applied.
Of course, there are times when a plumbing issue
goes beyond missing something in a code book.
Logic and physics have ways of working together,
and there’s no fighting the reality that water flows
from a point of high pressure to low, and gravity
wins most arguments.
I
was inspecting a residential new build a little
while back and spotted something that was missed
during the occupancy inspection that falls into this category of
infraction.
Rather than trying to describe the issue, here’s a photo of the
stop and waste cock that was installed within a foot or two of
the exterior wall, to protect the outside hose bib and connected
piping from freezing – and possibly bursting – when winter hits.
Andrew Quattrociocchi, C.B.C.O., is a building inspector with the Town of
Bradford West Gwillimbury, and a director with the Ontario Plumbing Inspectors Association. He can be reached at quattroscorner@hotmail.com.
Comments