How to Guide

115
Using Plastics in Multi-Story Construc-
tion
Incorporating plastic piping systems into multi-story con-
struction raises special design considerations. Charlotte Pipe
plasticpipeandttingsarewarrantedtoconformtoASTM
or other applicable product-based standard, not for any par-
ticular system design.
Products and materials selected for use in multi-story con-
struction (four floors and up) must conform to all applicable
building, plumbing and re codes.  Product selection and/
or specification should be made by an architect, engineer,
contractor, or other licensed professional. This must include
specification of a code-compliant, chemically compatible
firestop system with an appropriate service life, which must
be properly installed and inspected for conformance to build-
ing, plumbing and fire codes by the responsible governmental
authority.
In selecting products and material for multi-story construc-
tion,considerationshouldbegiventoCharlottePipe’scast
iron soil pipe products, which are an excellent choice for
many multi-story applications. Charlotte Pipe recommends
noncombustiblecastironDWVpipingsystemsinmulti-story
construction.
Using Plastics for Combustion Gas
Venting
Charlotte Pipe recommends that inquiries about the suit-
ability of plastic piping systems for venting combustion gas-
ses should be directed to the manufacturer of the water or
space heating equipment being installed. As stated in the
International Code Council’s International Fuel Gas Code
503.4.1.1:
Plastic Pipe and fittings used to vent appliances shall be
installed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s
installation instructions.
Furthermore,severalof the ASTM standardsapplicableto
plastic pipe and fittings that Charlotte Pipe manufactures
include the following note: This standard specification does
not include requirements for pipe and fittings intended
to be used to vent combustion gases.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Combustion Gas Venting
Failure to properly vent combustion gas may result in
serious injury or death from carbon monoxide.
• Always install / use pipe or fittings as specified by the
appliance manufacturer's installation instructions to
vent appliances.
It’simportanttonotethatthechemicalpropertiesofallplas-
tic pipe, including CPVC pipe, change over time. Visually,
this means that the pipe may experience color variations. The
temperature of the water running through the pipe often de-
termines the degree of variation, with hot water causing a
more noticeable change. Such color variations, however, do
not indicate that the performance of the pipe has been com-
promised. The pressure bearing capabilities of CPVC pipe, in
fact, actually increase as the pipe ages to help ensure a reli-
able, long-term performance.
Whatalsochangesovertimeistheimpactresistanceofthe
system. But since an installed system has little opportunity
to sustain impact, this change has little to no effect. It does
mean, however, that if a cut-in is necessary as a result of a
modification to the line or the addition of a fixture, addition-
al care should be taken to prevent the system from sustaining
impact.Whileitisacceptabletousearatchetcutterwhen
installing new pipe, its use can compress the pipe and cause
end cracks on aged pipe. For this reason, a ratchet cutter
should not be used on aged CPVC pipe. Even if the cracks are
not visible, they can eventually propagate through the fitting
and cause a leak.
I suggest using either a wheel-type cutter or fine-tooth saw
when performing a cut-in procedure. Once the pipe is cut,
continue with standard installation procedures, including
beveling the pipe and solvent cementing the fitting. Keep in
mind that if the area is wet as a result of water being inside
the line, you need to add to the cure time typically required.
In some cases, the required cure time may be three times as
long.That’swhyit’svaluabletotrytodrytheareaasmuch
as possible.
Repairs or Modifications to Existing CPVC CTS Systems
(Reprinted from FBC Plumbing Connections, Issue 29, 4Q 2009, written by Steve
Manis, Technical Manager)