What may be a silly question here from someone non-initiated with CPVC for residential plumbing. I’m not a plumber, but do re-plumb small bits here and there during the course of remodels. Always have used copper. Current project poses some problems with existing wiring to sweating pipes. I will use plastic but had a funny thought today about the stub-outs for WC and bathroom sink and a claw-foot tub in bathroom. Is there any reason not to use the plastic for the stubouts? Will angle stops with compression fittings work as usual as with copper. Is there any reason to switch to copper for the stubouts?
Just curious so thought I’d ask.
thanks.
Brad
Replies
The obvious reasons:
--CPVC is much easier to damage when exposed.
--CPVC flexes too easily to support twisting a valve.
--CPVC looks like carp.
--CPVC will not (in general) accept fittings designed for copper. (In particular, do not use a compression fitting designed for copper, as the plastic will decide to change diameter at an inconvenient time and take leave of the fitting.)
happy?
--CPVC looks like carp.
Nah, more like salmon...
DG/Builder
so, the solution is to run CPVC to just behind the wall and then stub out copper? I was wondering about that.
I think that's the better solution. Or stub out with brass,, if you want to get fancy.
If ignorance is bliss why aren't more people
happy?
They make heat-resistant protective pads that you use to protect the wires while soldering. I use them - they work great. They even stand up to mapp gas. BTW, I like mapp gas - you spend a lot less time cooking the pipe.
I don't like plastic pipes...
How about a picture or a link? I've never seen these. I usually use an old pice of metal as a shield.
I'm with you though, don't much care for plastic water lines.
Don K.
EJG Homes Renovations - New Construction - Rentals
I buy them at HD. They're probably available at plumbing supply houses as well. I haven't left burnt studs since I got a couple.
You need to use the special CPVC <-> Copper transition fittings.
Especially important for the hot side.
These fittings are rather expensive, so they eat into your material savings.
Another alternative might be to use threaded copper or brass fittings where you do not want to torch. You know- old school...
PEX is yet another option.