Strapping/Clamps for ABS Pipe - Metal vs. Plastic

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jmterail

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Dec 20, 2018
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Location
London, Ontario
I have read that using galvanized metal strapping to support ABS is at best unprofessional, and at worst against code.

Unfortunately, alternatives seem to be lacking.

Plastic J-hooks seem to only be available at professional plumbing suppliers. The big boxes sell nothing but galvanized metal strapping, or metal clamps. I know plastic strapping exists but again I can't find anywhere that stocks it.

Best I have been able to find are PVC clamps - but they are made for electrical conduit and surely to raise questions for an inspector.

I can't help but think that if no one stocks anything else... maybe galvanized metal strapping is not a big deal here?

I am in Ontario and haven't been able to find anything definitive in the code.
 
I’m on furlough, and my current code books are locked in the office. But the 2009 UPC, in 314.2&4 says no metal in contact with plastic pipe. The 2009 IRC, says the same in 2605.1.

Oatey makes a poly strapping, which is a bit easier to work with than the metal plumbers tape, and is compliant. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00207OT30/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20

And, I know Lasco makes dwv clips with standoffs that nails to the floor joists. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HYWEWZQ/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20
 
Frodo, plastic and metal are incompatible because over time with expansion/contraction. I have seen this myself many times.
And had inspectors call it as non-approved as well.

If you need to use metal perforated strap do this:
Wrap the metal with duct or other protective tape first, that will protect the pipe.
Also, ABS or PVC must be supported rigidly (as 314.2 item indicates), so you have to use 2x4 lumber to the exact length to hold it in all directions.
This is not worth the effort unless you have to do it in a pinch.
Just get 4 in 1 hangers which work with all sizes and cut to length or extend with wood for long distances.
 
Frodo, plastic and metal are incompatible because over time with expansion/contraction. I have seen this myself many times.
And had inspectors call it as non-approved as well.

If you need to use metal perforated strap do this:
Wrap the metal with duct or other protective tape first, that will protect the pipe.
Also, ABS or PVC must be supported rigidly (as 314.2 item indicates), so you have to use 2x4 lumber to the exact length to hold it in all directions.
This is not worth the effort unless you have to do it in a pinch.
Just get 4 in 1 hangers which work with all sizes and cut to length or extend with wood for long distances.


water heater Dielectric nipples?
I disagree.
pvc is supported every 4'

galvanic action or electrolysis is caused by dissimilar metals not by pvc which is an insulator
 
I have installed pvc storm and sanitary drains in every kind of structure you can imagine and some you cant, with metal hangers. There is no code in 7 galaxies that wont allow a metal clevis hanger for a pvc line.
I agree, I have also. we even use pvc inserts in metal studs to isolate the copper from the stud

I do not know where these guys are getting this misinformation

stud_inserts.png inserts11.png die_nipple.png die_union.png
 
We have the plumbing codes.

We have the plumbing inspectors.

Then we have the pipe manufacturers recommendations(Charlotte Plastics Tech Manual quotes)...

"To prevent damage to the pipe, file smooth any sharp edges or burrs on the hangers or supports."

"The use of coated hangers with plastic pipe is neither recommended or necessary. If coated hangers are used, verify that the rubber or vinyl coating utilized does not contain plasticizers and is chemically compatible with the plastic pipe material."
 
Ford Field in Detroit i hung 75% of the roof storm drain, it was mostly 24" pvc. We also had pvc cut groove to make a vic connection to the roof drainage system. A 24" vic coupling is no fun to play with at 190' up in a jlg boom lift.
 
Ford Field in Detroit i hung 75% of the roof storm drain, it was mostly 24" pvc. We also had pvc cut groove to make a vic connection to the roof drainage system. A 24" vic coupling is no fun to play with at 190' up in a jlg boom lift.
That's a big roof. I had one that big and ended up providing a secondary roof drainage system for it. And we had to keep the 2 piping systems completely separate, unlike some examples I've seen.
 
If I used metal or flexible plastic strapping my contractors would fire me. Havent you seen broken ones under houses? plastic J hooks for drain lines.
 
Get out of here with your quality and such!!

Can't you see I am trying to make a profit while still keeping within the budget that the builder wants to pay?!!??
 
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