Upgrading Your Standard Plumbing

Standard Plumbing is an American corporation specializing in commercial plumbing, HVAC, and hydronic heating. Founded in 1952, the company operates separate stores for each of these services. Its operations are highly streamlined, leading to high efficiency. Its diversified product lines include Copper piping, Non-recyclable cross-linked polyethylene pipe, PVC pipes, and Check valves.

Copper piping

Copper piping has several advantages over other materials. For one, it is a pure metal. It is available in different sizes, from 1/8" to 12". It has an extra strong wall thickness and is 99.99% copper. It is ideal for refrigeration and plumbing applications. Its low price also means that it is more cost-effective than other materials.

Non-recyclable cross-linked polyethylene pipe

PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, has become one of the most reliable plumbing materials in the United States. This thermoplastic pipe has high heat and chemical resistance. It is often used in hot and cold-water distribution systems. PEX has also been approved by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) for use in plumbing applications.

PVC pipes

PVC pipes are white, hard plastic pipes with markings on the side. These markings show the pipe's diameter and temperature rating. These pipes are not recommended for use with hot water supply lines. However, they are excellent for drain lines and waste water work. These pipes also withstand high water pressure and are extremely durable.

Check valves

Check valves are an important part of piping systems. They are a simple and practical way to control the flow of water or gas, and they're cost-effective to purchase and install. They are also versatile, which makes them useful for a variety of applications. However, choosing the correct check valve for a particular job is crucial, as the wrong one won't perform properly and you may end up spending more money than you'll save.

Unit venting

Unit venting systems are common in apartment buildings, and can save both space and money. However, improperly sized vents can cause problems with water pressure. They are also commonly used in bathroom fixture groupings. The vent pipe connects the fixtures to a common soil pipe fixture.

Wet venting

If you're interested in upgrading your standard plumbing, you should know about wet venting. This type of plumbing consists of a vertical drain pipe that doubles as a vent. It's most commonly used between two bathroom units on different floors. It runs upward from the first floor sink to the second floor sink, where it connects to a separate vent pipe. This pipe then continues up into the roof.

Shutoff valves

Shutoff valves are necessary for most plumbing applications. They are typically located in a manifold or under a sink or toilet tank, with a handle that can be turned to turn water on or off. Shutoff valves are also commonly referred to as ball valves by plumbing contractors.

Placement of water lines in homes without basements

If you don't have a basement, you need to know where to place water lines. Ideally, water lines should be installed under the slab or in the crawl space. Avoid placing them in the attic, as they can lead to major damage. If you have a multi-story home, water lines should be installed between the joists. Make sure you choose the right piping materials for the job.

Common plumbing fixtures

Plumbing fixtures come in a variety of sizes and shapes and are used to convey water. Understanding the different types and their functions can help you maintain your home plumbing system.