Page 145 - The City and Guilds Textbook: Plumbing Book 1 for the Level 3 Apprenticeship (9189), Level 2 Technical Certificate (8202) and Level 2 Diploma (6035)

Chapter 2 Common processes and techniques

p Figure 2.57 Rawlplugs: hanging a radiator

5 PIPEWORK INSTALLATION

TECHNIQUES

Installation activities on new and existing
installations: marking out, positioning and

installation of pipework
As already stated in Section 4, the positioning of surface-mounted pipe clips
requires careful consideration. Pipework that is neither level nor plumb is
an eyesore. Many customers specifically ask for the pipework to be hidden.
However, there are situations where hiding pipework is not possible because of
the constraints of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. Where
this becomes an issue, careful positioning and consultation with the customer
will most likely resolve the problem.

Installation fixes
The installation of plumbing, heating, sanitation and gas systems can be broken
down into a series of stages, known as fixes. These are described below.

First fix
The first fix involves everything plumbing related in the first phase of construction.
It is now that joists are notched and holes drilled ready for the installation of the
pipework. Prefabrication of pipework can help here, especially when repetitious
work, such as the same house type or the same bathroom layout is expected.

First fixing is basically installing the pipework for the hot and cold water supply,
heating system, sanitation system and gas installation that would otherwise not
be seen, such as the pipework under floors or in walls. This stage requires very
careful planning to avoid issues later on in the build. All too often plumbers have
had to return to their work because pipes positioned during the first fix are in
the wrong place for the appliance they are supplying.

Whether you are installing copper or plastic pipework, it is a good idea to install
some extra fittings that will help to make maintenance much easier once the
system has been commissioned and is in use:

● single and double check valves – these protect against contamination and
backflow of water
● service valves – although not mandatory, the fitting of service valves to aid
decommissioning of systems is considered good practice.

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