|
Plumbing Saddle (“T”) Type Fittings
I have lost count on the number of saddle fittings I
have seen over the years. Saddle fittings are sold at most home
centers and plumbing supply stores. So are they acceptable or not?
The answer is maybe. Most home inspectors “flag” these connections.
The ICC (International Code Council) Plumbing Code – P3003.2
prohibits the use of saddle type fittings on any part of the Drain
Waste Vent system. Some municipalities allow the use of saddle
fittings for very specific applications, not normally encountered in
a residential DWV system. So when can saddle type fittings be used,
and what does the code specifically say about them
Most municipalities allow saddle type connections to be used
underground when connecting to a main or municipal drain service pipe. Special
considerations must be made when using saddle fittings including; mechanical
tapping (if possible) is most desired, ensuring that the screws and bolts are
tightened properly to ensure there are no point loading failures.
The ICC text is very clear: P3003.2 Prohibited Joints.
Running threads and
bands shall not be used in the drainage system. Drainage and vent piping shall
not be drilled, tapped, burned, or welded. The following types of joints shall
be prohibited:
- Cement or concrete
- Mastic or hot-pour bituminous joints
- Joints made with fittings not approved
for the specific installation
- Joints between different diameter pipes
made with elastomeric rolling O-rings
- Solvent-cemented joints between
different types of plastic pipe
- Saddle
- type fittings
A home inspector should note all
of these connections as a defect and advise their client to have a licensed
plumber evaluate and properly repair.
|
