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Saddle fittings for DWV pipe are installed by drilling a
hole in the accepting pipe and installing a clamp over the hole that delivers
water (or air) from another drain pipe. Because the hole is considerably smaller
and causes the waste to turn abruptly at the drilled hole, it is very susceptible
to clogging and decreased water flow.
I think there is not a month that goes by that I do not see
at least one saddle clamp drain fitting. There are “plumbers” using these
fittings and they can easily be obtained at any home store. I also see them
used for venting. Specifically, for a circuit vent connection. There are
specialized applications where saddle fittings can be used, however they are
not approved for most plumbing applications. Here is what the National Plumbing
Code Section, 2.4.1 Fittings and Connections in Drainage Systems says about
saddle fittings:
2.4.1
No running threads or saddles shall be used in the drainage
or vent systems. No drainage or vent piping shall be drilled, tapped, burned,
or welded.
Home inspectors should note saddle fittings for Drain,
Waste, & Vent in their reports as a defect and recommend they are removed
and replaced with proper fittings and connections. Some alternatives are to install a proper elastomeric
transition.
National Plumbing Code 4.3.8 Special Joints and Couplings
for Drainage Piping Section c, state; “Shielded couplings shall consist of a
flexible elastomeric sealing sleeve, a protecting and supporting continuous
metal shield or shear ring, and metal screw clamping bands. All metal parts
shall be corrosion resistant. Shielded couplings shall be capable of withstanding a shear test based on a load
of 50 pounds per inch of nominal pipe diameter, and shall be permitted to
partially support the pipe being joined when such installation is recommended
by the manufacturer’s instructions. Shielded couplings may be installed
aboveground or underground, as intended by the manufacturer”.
Saddle drain connections are almost certain to cause
problems for your client. Explaining what these fittings are and the proper
repair will give them clear direction and avoid future issues.
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