Commercial plumbing installation is a vital component to every commercial space. A properly installed plumbing system should be an asset to your space and virtually unnoticeable. A commercial plumbing system that draws too much attention is not a well-installed system. Here are three things to consider before installing your commercial plumbing system:
Commercial Plumbing Requirements Will Vary from Space to Space
Commercial plumbing systems must be able to handle higher volumes than residential systems. There will be greater amounts of water and disposal passing through these systems, so they will be more extensive and cover a greater area. The system must be able to withstand greater demands. For all these reasons, you will not want to cut corners when it comes to installing a plumbing system in a commercial area.
There are several different types of commercial spaces. For each space, the plumbing system must meet the unique demands of the space they are used. Business parks, strip malls, restaurants, gas stations, movie theaters and shopping centers are a few examples of commercial spaces. The same commercial plumbing system will not be adequate to meet the needs of every type of business, as each of these areas will have different plumbing requirements based on their function and purpose.
With commercial plumbing systems, a small issue in one area can create huge problems throughout the entire system. That’s why it is so critical that commercial systems have the proper installation to meet the needs of the businesses they are serving. The code requirements for each plumbing system will depend upon on the type of commercial space it is used in and the intended purpose of that space.
All Commercial Plumbing Installation Must Pass the Test
The commercial plumbing system you want to install must meet the requirements of Georgia State Law. In Georgia, the International Plumbing Code (IPC) is one of eight mandatory codes. Mandatory codes apply to any and all construction jobs regardless of whether the area enforces them. The IPC ensures the proper handling and delivery of clean water as well as safe waste removal. This code is an important part of maintaining the health and safety of the community.
There are several requirements under the IPC. For example, all building sewers must be a minimum of six inches underground. There are also mandatory venting requirements. Such as, venting systems must allow fresh air to circulate through the piping system as well as allow other gases to escape. There are also regulations on the placement of venting systems, the size of the vents, and how many are within a certain area.
The IPC requires all new plumbing to undergo a series of tests. These test ensure the system is up to code. According to the Georgia State Amendments to the IPC, all trenches must remain uncovered until pipework inspection, testing and approval is complete. It is important that your commercial plumbing professional is knowledgeable of the IPC as well as the Georgia State Amendments before beginning your commercial plumbing installation project.
Another Georgia State Amendment to the IPC is that all new buildings and construction must use high-efficiency plumbing fixtures. The purpose of this amendment is to lessen the amount of water waste throughout the state. However, there are certain situations where using these fixtures is not in the best interest of the project. Counties can grant waivers to allow an exemption to these high-efficiency plumbing fixtures if certain conditions exist. It is helpful to have a commercial plumbing professional who is familiar with these amendments and exemptions. This knowledge will help ensure you are getting the best system for your commercial space.
Does Your Installer Pass the Test?
Before signing on with your commercial plumbing installer, get all the facts. Georgia State Law requires that any contractor or employee performing plumbing services or installation under that contractor must have a Georgia State License as a Master Plumber or as a Journeyman Plumber.
A Journeyman Plumber has completed an apprenticeship with a Master Plumber. They must complete a certain number of hours in classroom training, a certain number of hours of training on the job, and pass the state’s journeyman plumbing exam. Then they are eligible to receive a Georgia State License as a Journeyman Plumber.
It is important to note that in Georgia, all employees working under a Master Plumber must hold a current Georgia State Master Plumber’s License or a current Georgia State Journeyman Plumber’s License. Be sure all employees working for your commercial plumbing professional have appropriate licensing before they begin work.
Are you in the market for commercial plumbing installation? Look no further! At Peak Steel Contractors, we can answer your questions and help you get the best plumbing system for your space.
