One of the more damaging events which can occur within a building is the failure of an internal plumbing line. For example, if common domestic 3/4″ diameter copper supply pipe fails, depending on the type and pressure drop within the line, the flow of water discharge from that supply line could range from 1 to 10 GPM. Therefore, over the course of just one hour, 60 to 600 gallons of water could be released through just the one plumbing line. Further, if the failed water supply line is located within the attic or plenum space above the entire interior portion of the building the result could be catastrophic.
During the cooler winter months, failures in water supply lines and collection networks are primarily due to the effects of exposure to sub-freezing temperatures. When pipes freeze, the internal pressure within the pipes increases to the point where longitudinal splits or separation of components occur leading to eventual leakage when the lines thaw. Thus, it is imperative that pipes within buildings be insulated and that sufficient heat be provided within the building
Another cause for a plumbing line failure is the direct result of faulty workmanship and/or installation errors. Nowhere is this more important than the connection of joints. Typical domestic water supply plumbing lines are either copper tubes or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes. The method of soldering copper fittings requires great skill and knowledge and can fail prematurely if inadequately performed. Failures in coupling nuts used in combination with PVC pipes can occur from incorrect or poor plastic material choice, incorrect coupling nut design, poor manufacturing practices, poor installation practices, or a combination of one or more of these factors.
Piping and components may also fail due to corrosion. Corrosion occurs over time and may be induced by either the interior (metallic content within the water) or exterior (exposure to high humidity) environment. Failure of corroded piping will usually provide indications of imminent failure long before a major leak occurs; for this reason, regular maintenance of piping in corrosive environments must be performed.
During the cooler winter months, failures in the tubing for the water distribution and collection network are primarily due to the effects of exposure to sub-freezing temperatures. When pipes freeze, the internal pressure within the pipes increases to the point where cracks are created leading to eventual failure. Thus, it is imperative that conductive metal pipes be sufficiently insulated.
Another cause for a plumbing line failure is the direct result of faulty workmanship and/or installation errors. Nowhere is this more important than the connection of joints. Typical domestic water supply plumbing lines are either copper tubes or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes. The method of soldering copper fittings requires great skill and knowledge and can fail prematurely if inadequately done. Failures in coupling nuts used in combination with PVC pipes can occur from incorrect or poor plastic material choice, incorrect coupling nut design, poor manufacturing practices, poor installation practices, or a combination of one or more of these factors.
