Oatey Releases Guide on Pipe Support Selection for Safety

Imagine moving into a newly renovated home, only to find pipes wobbling due to inadequate support, creating annoying noises. This scenario can significantly impact the quality of living. Selecting the right pipe supports is like equipping your home’s "veins" with sturdy armor—ensuring durability, safety, and peace of mind. Here’s a guide to choosing the right pipe supports for a rock-solid plumbing system.

Pipe supports are as critical as a building’s foundation. They go beyond mere fixation, playing a vital role in the safety and stability of the entire plumbing system.

• Safety Assurance: Without proper support, pipes risk collapsing, potentially causing property damage or even injuries. High-quality supports, such as hangers or clamps, ensure stability and prevent accidents.
• Reducing Pipe Movement: Minor pipe movements may seem insignificant, but over time, they can lead to issues like noise in drainage, waste, and vent (DWV) systems or "water hammer" effects in supply lines. Proper supports absorb shocks and minimize vibrations.

Selecting suitable pipe supports involves evaluating factors like material, size, installation location, and local building codes. Only the right support ensures long-term stability.

First, review local building codes. These often specify requirements for pipe alignment, preventing sagging, and using corrosion-resistant materials to avoid galvanic corrosion. Supports must also bear the weight of pipes and their contents.

Next, match the support type to the pipe material and size:

• PVC and CPVC Pipes: Lightweight and versatile, these typically use Schedule 40 PVC clamps or brackets.
• Copper Pipes: May require insulated clamps to reduce noise and vibration.
• Steel Pipes (e.g., carbon or galvanized steel): Heavier pipes need robust hangers or steel brackets.
• Cast Iron Pipes: Common in DWV systems, they require sturdy riser clamps or straps.

For example, a 1-inch copper pipe and a 1-inch gas pipe differ in wall thickness, diameter, and weight, necessitating different hanger types.

Ultimately, the choice depends on material, size, load capacity, and spacing preferences.

Clamps offer quick installation for copper pipes. Key types include:

• Nail-On Clamps: Pre-loaded nails allow easy installation. Features like patented removal wedges facilitate disassembly. Available in full or half-clamp styles for HVAC systems.
• Half-Clamp Hanger Clamps: Reduce noise by separating pipes from surfaces. Ribbed designs accommodate expansion and contraction.
• DuoFit™ Nail-On Clamps: Fit ½-inch and ¾-inch pipes, eliminating surface contact and dampening noise (0°F to 160°F range).
• Insulated Clamps: Made of polypropylene, these prevent corrosion (0°F to 180°F range) and minimize noise.
• Self-Sealing Clamps: Automatically secure pipes, reducing installation time. Compatible with copper, steel, PEX, and CPVC.

Designed for vertical pipe support, these ensure stability in DWV and supply systems.

Used for water supply and DWV pipes:

• Copper-Plated Hangers: Rotate and lock into place for copper pipes.
• Galvanized DWV Hangers: Adjustable straps suit joist or rafter installations.

Metal or plastic straps provide cost-effective solutions:

• Plastic Straps: Support up to 20 lbs, ideal for temporary or permanent use (32°F to 120°F).
• Metal Straps: Quick, affordable options for DWV systems.

Quickly secure pipes to joists or rafters:

• DWV J-Hooks: Allow expansion/contraction for horizontal pipes.
• CTS J-Hooks: Suit copper, PEX, or CPVC pipes (50-lb capacity).

Stud Guards and FHA Plates: Shield pipes and wires from nail damage.

Position supply lines for sinks or fixtures:

• Hyco Bars: Support pipes across studs, reducing noise.
• Sliding Wall Brackets: Adjustable for stud walls, compatible with CPVC, copper, or PEX.

• Cable/Conduit Straps: Secure loose components.
• Flat Pipe Nails: Fasten pipes to wood studs.
• Short Pipe Clamps: Fit sliding or angled wall brackets.

High-quality pipe supports are indispensable for preventing failures caused by water hammer, excessive loads, or structural penetrations. Proper selection and installation ensure a quiet, durable plumbing system.