Many people feel as though they are not up to the challenge of installing bathroom plumbing and leave plumbing to the professionals. However, others find bathroom plumbing installation simple and like to save money by doing it themselves. For those in the latter category, don't fall into the trap that could cause your toilet to overflow or your sink to leak. There are a few installation tips that can help make installing plumbing easy.
Toilets
When installing a toilet, take extra care to ensure that all of the connections and gaskets are made properly to avoid flooding or waste of water. The toilet's outlet is called a "horn" and must be fitted with a wax ring gasket that will seal it off from leakage. If this gasket fails, water will leak out around the toilet. Position the gasket over the hole, and then set the toilet onto the flange. Attach all bolts and nuts to the bowl. Make sure the nuts are facing outward to prevent rust and corrosion. Hook up the waterline tightly, but don't twist it so hard that it won't be able to be opened in the future.
Shower/Tub
If you decide to place a shower and tub inside of your bathroom, be careful to follow local codes. Being in violation of the codes could result in a hefty fine. Connect the drain and overflow drain before connecting anything else, unless they come already assembled. Make sure that the water lines are as far apart as the hot and cold riser fittings to which they will be connected. These must be soldered in place. Screw the valves on with a wrench, and tighten the showerhead and faucet fixtures with a strap wrench.
Violations
Several code issues in your bathroom plumbing installation may cause you to be in violation of local laws and regulations. Make sure, for instance, that when you install plumbing in your bathroom your shower valves are appropriately pressure balanced to the level required by code. Building materials must be approved, including piping, glue, fittings, and primers. Sewer lines may be subject to a minimum slope requirement in your locality. Familiarity with these codes is key to a successful bathroom plumbing installation job.
Tags: bathroom plumbing, bathroom plumbing installation, Make sure, plumbing installation, your bathroom