Plastic copper pipe in concrete without protective wrap, hints from a home inspector
Plastic copper pipe in concrete without protective wrap: this is an extremely common situation. The original plumber performs his duties well and correctly but the property owner often, at some latter date, adds concrete walks
and/or decks around the plumbing, thereby encapsulating the plastic or copper pipes. Concrete shifts, expands and contracts. The pipe may in time be damaged by this movement. If the pipes are bumped they may be damaged due to the lack of "give" of the concrete. Protective wraps are usually plastic tape but anything which breaks the pipe contact with the concrete helps. Chipping the concrete from around the pipes may cause more harm than good. It is recommended that you monitor the pipes for leakage and repair as needed. Pipes encapsulated in concrete for 10 to 15 years with no damage are not uncommon. Contact a plumbing contractor for further information if desired. Since this is a plastic pipe, it is relatively fragile. Having it above ground exposes it to the deteriorating rays of the sun and to the possibility of being broken. This could become a very hazardous situation. It is recommended that the exposed portion of the plastic gas line be replaced with steel pipe which is vinyl coated. Extend the steel portion at least 18 inches into the ground and connect to the plastic pipe at that depth. This will assure that the plastic pipe is well protected. Contact a plumbing contractor for further assistance if needed.
Water softener damaged
Plastic water pipes
Plastic water pipes
Electric clothes dryer connections
Gas clothes dryer connections
Laundry tub or sink: laundry tubs
Laundry chute
Laundry chutes that drop into garages
Galvanized sheet metal plastic vent pipes
The above information was provided by TWI Systems Copyright 1995-2007 1-800-553-5660. TWI is a fantastic company to deal with!