Plumbing chases (sometimes referred to as plumb chases) are pathways or hollowed out spaces within a structure used to house and/or conceal pipework, wires, or other building utilities. These chases can be created by cutting away sections of interior walls, floors, or ceilings, or by more creative means that involve the installation of a “false wall” or “false ceiling” along with ventilation systems and fittings.
Plumbing chases are often used in bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and other areas where pipes or wires need to be tucked away out of sight.
A plumbing chase allows the necessary plumbing and wiring to run in a space that is less visible, allowing users to enjoy the aesthetics of their home without the distraction of exposed pipes and wires that could be considered unsightly.
This ultimately gives users a much tidier overall look and feel. When done properly, plumbing chases are also safer and easier to maintain as any problems and repairs can be done quickly and with minimal disruption to the household.
What does Chase mean in construction terms?
In construction terms, “Chase” is a term for a recessed area or chase way formed between two walls. This can be done by either forming a lower portion of one wall or angling the walls to each other so that an area is formed.
The chase can then be framed out and used for the installation of pipes, wiring, and other utilities. A chase can also be used to create a wall-mounted cupboard or other storage space. The primary benefit of using a chase is that it provides easier access to the necessary utilities while hiding them away from view while also providing additional storage space within the wall.
What is the difference between a chase wall and a shaft wall?
A chase wall is a type of wall structure typically used in plumbing and electrical work where the pipes and wires have to be routed vertically through a building. These walls are constructed to allow the plumber or electrician to easily access the services running within them, usually housing vertical and horizontal chases within the wall assembly.
Chase walls may also be known as utility walls, access walls, or service walls.
A shaft wall, on the other hand, is typically a fire protection system that is designed to restrict the vertical spread of fire and smoke from one building floor to another. Shaft walls are typically made from fire-resistant materials such as gypsum board, metal, and concrete, and are engineered to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through a building.
Shaft walls can also be built to provide soundproofing benefits between floors and are typically found in hotels, commercial buildings, and apartment buildings.
What is a chase wall used for?
A chase wall is a structure that is typically used to house electrical wiring and plumbing in a wall cavity. The chase wall has openings on either side of the wall, allowing for access to both the wiring and plumbing that run through it.
It also serves as a guard against errant tools, debris and rodents from damaging the electrical wiring and plumbing. In addition to providing protection and access, chase walls can also help to conserve energy by preventing air infiltration.
When soundproofing is necessary, a chase wall is also a way to inhibit unwanted noise from neighbouring rooms. In new construction, chase walls are used to provide quick access for the wiring and plumbing systems so that these can be installed easily and quickly.
In renovation projects, these same chase walls can be used to provide easier access to repair existing systems.
How deep should a chase wall be?
A chase wall should be deep enough to ensure the stability of the chimney above it and to provide adequate support for the weight of the chimney, and any adjoining structures, such as a fireplace mantel.
The depth of the chase wall depends on a number of variables, including the type of material used, the size of the chimney and the flue, the height, and the width of the chase wall. In general, it’s recommended to have a chase wall that is at least 12 inches deep; however, some building codes may require deeper chase walls of up to 18 inches deep.
When considering how deep your chase wall should be, it is essential to consult a qualified contractor or engineer to ensure that your chase wall meets all local building codes and is properly constructed.
What is a brick chase?
A brick chase is a type of construction element that is used to close up the vertical space between the bottom of a wall and the ceiling. It is often used to conceal wires, plumbing, or other service lines.
The typical brick chase is made up of a wooden frame filled with masonry materials such as concrete blocks, stone, mortar, and sometimes even brick. The frame is then secured to the wall with construction adhesive and fasteners.
The wooden frame is often covered with a metal or plastic sheet to prevent dust from getting in, as well as providing a secure enclosure for the service lines that run in it. The brick chase is designed to keep the service lines hidden and can also help insulate against heat and sound.
Can shaft wall be used horizontally?
Yes, shaft wall can be used horizontally. Shaft wall systems are designed for installation in vertical elevations such as shafts, stairwells, and elevator walls. However, many shaft wall systems, such as those from Manufacturer X, are tested and certified for use in horizontal installations.
This allows for greater provide flexibility and design opportunities for applications such as mechanical rooms, food service areas, and other locations where horizontal wall assemblies are necessary.
A horizontal shaft wall installation is similar to a vertical installation with the manufacturer’s tested and rated construction details being followed. The wall assemblies must also be properly secured to the structure in order to maintain the fire-rated integrity of the system.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that any penetrations to the horizontal shaft wall assembly are firestopped, either with a putty-type firestop material or with a tested and certified firestop system.
How do you frame a shaft wall?
Framing a shaft wall requires proper preparation, materials, and tools. To begin, you will need to measure each piece of the wall, including the studs and headers. After this, you will need to cut lumber to the appropriate dimensions using a miter saw or circular saw.
Once each piece is cut, plunge cut the headers where the ductwork will fit in. Attach the header sections to the studs using a hammer, lag screws, and metal straps. Next, mark the studs with a level, and then secure them to the wall using screws and nails.
Finally, install the drywall and any other finishings, such as insulation and wood trim. With the proper preparation, materials, and tools, you can properly frame a shaft wall.
How do you install a Zurn wall hung toilet?
Installing a Zurn wall hung toilet requires careful planning and measurement. First, the rough in should be marked on the wall according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Next, a wood wall framed structure should be built to fit the wall mounted toilet, as well as to prepare for mounting the tank or bowl.
This frame should be secured to the wall studs. The toilet should then be bolted to the frame with the appropriate hardware provided with the toilet.
Next, the installation of the water supply should be carefully planned, with the main water shutoff valve located nearby. A copper or plastic water pipe should be connected to the wall hung toilet, with the copper pipe soldered with a torch.
The water should then be connected to the wall hung toilet, followed by connecting the flush valve and flushing mechanisms.
The Zurn wall hung toilet should then be secured to the wall using the appropriate hardware and fasteners provided. Once the toilet is in place and leveled, the tank should be connected to the bowl. It is essential to use the proper sealant to ensure there is a tight connection between the bowl and tank.
Finally, if desired, a decorative cover plate may be installed. Once all of these steps have been completed, the wall hung toilet is ready for use.
What is a carrier in plumbing?
A carrier in plumbing is a type of pipe and fitting system used to safely transport water and other fluids in a building. They are typically made from plastic or metal and are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit different plumbing applications.
Carriers are typically used for drainage, venting, and hot and cold water supply. They are an important part of a proper plumbing system and are often used in combination with other materials and components.
Carriers must be installed according to the building code and government guidelines, and a licensed plumber is usually the best person to install them properly.
How do toilet carriers work?
Toilet carriers are fixtures that are used to transport and install a toilet at the job site during the installation process. They are mounted onto the floor, and typically consist of a metal frame. Inside the frame is a cradle secured by four corner braces, with a metal handle extending from the back end.
A set of brackets is connected to the base of the carrier and can be mounted to the walls or floor joists in order to secure the toilet. The handle provides a convenient way to lift and move the toilet from the job site to the installation area.
Installation professionals typically use a maneuverable hand truck to move the carrier around.
Once it’s at the installation area, the toilet is attached to the carrier’s cradle and secured in place, then the entire carrier is tilted back and the back end is lifted off the ground. The toilet is now ready to be installed into the floor flange, which involves loosening lugs or brackets, inserting and securing the gaskets, and tightening the screws and bolts.
Once the toilet is secure, the carrier can be removed and reused.
How far does a toilet stick out from the wall?
On average, toilets typically stick out from the wall about 18 to 20 inches. The distance from the wall may be slightly more or less depending on the specific design, brand, and installation of the toilet.
It is important to measure the distance of the toilet from the wall before installing any toilet accessories such as toilet paper holders, shelves, or lighting fixtures to make sure they will fit properly.
How much weight can a wall toilet hold?
The amount of weight that a wall-mounted toilet can hold will depend on the type of toilet and the type of wall it is mounted on. Generally speaking, most wall-mounted toilets are designed to hold between 500 to 600 pounds of weight.
This is usually sufficient to support an adult and their body weight, but if the wall is of a lesser quality, such as a drywall, it may not be able to hold that much weight. Even if the wall is made of a higher quality material such as concrete, the weight capacity may be limited because of the mounting hardware used to secure the toilet to the wall.
It is also important to ensure the wall is sufficiently reinforced to support the weight of the toilet and that the mounting hardware is solid, preferably using a steel anchor. Additionally, the installation instructions should be followed carefully to ensure proper installation and that the toilet is securely and properly attached to the wall.
How do you attach a toilet veil?
Attaching a toilet veil is easy and should only take a few minutes. First, you will need to purchase a toilet veil panel, which is normally made from plastic or fabric, and a set of curtain rings. Begin by adjusting the curtain rings to fit the desired length and width of the veil.
You will then need to use either adhesive strips or double-sided tape to attach the panel to the back of the veil. Lastly, place the curtain rings along the top edge of the veil and carefully insert the rod into the rings, one at a time.
If your toilet veil has any ties, tie the curtain rings to the ties. Now your veil is ready to be hung on the rod, and your bathroom will look refreshed and updated!.
What are the disadvantages of wall-mounted toilet?
The primary disadvantage of a wall-mounted toilet is that it can be costly to install. This is largely because of the fact that the toilet must be securely fastened to a wall and typically requires the services of a professional plumber.
In addition, such toilets are more difficult to clean and maintain, as dirt and grime can build up on the wall fixtures to which the toilet is attached. If there is a plumbing issue associated with the wall-mounted toilet, a plumber must also be called in to take care of the problem.
Finally, wall-mounted toilets tend to be more difficult to access, as they are elevated off the floor. This could be an issue for individuals with limited mobility, such as the elderly, young children, and people with disabilities.
How high should a toilet be off the floor?
The ideal height for a toilet off the floor should be roughly 15 inches from the floor to the toilet seat. This is the standard height for most toilets, and it is designed to provide the best comfort for the user.
When selecting a toilet, look for models that allow for adjustable heights. This will help ensure the user can get the most comfortable height for their particular needs. The height of a toilet can also be adjusted with risers or platform surfaces.
However, it is important to note that these alternate solutions may not provide the same level of comfort as the traditional 15-inch toilet height and may not meet current building codes.
Are Floating toilets more expensive?
Floating toilets are becoming an increasingly popular form of wastewater management, especially in areas prone to flooding or with frequent water levels. However, these types of toilets can also be a costly investment.
Such as the materials used, the complexity of the design, and installation costs.
The materials used to build a floating toilet play a huge role in the cost. Many of these toilets are made out of metal and plastic, but there are also options made from eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic.
Generally, more durable and eco-friendly materials will cost more. Additionally, the complexity of the design can add more to the final cost. For instance, a simple toilet that only requires plumbing and a pump can cost less than a more complex design that requires multiple compartments, pumps, and all the necessary wiring.
The installation costs also add to the total cost of a floating toilet. Most of the time this cost covers the labor needed to install the toilet and any necessary plumbing and wiring. The complexity of the installation can also drive up the price.
Overall, floating toilets can be more expensive than traditional toilets due to the use of more expensive materials, the complexity of the design, and the installation costs. However, they are still a great way to manage wastewater in flood-prone areas or areas with frequent changing water levels.
How much do you have to weigh to break a toilet?
The amount of weight necessary to break a toilet depends on the toilet’s make, model, and material. Generally speaking, toilets are designed to hold between 400 to 800 lbs of weight. That being said, a large adult standing on the toilet seat with their full weight could potentially exceed the toilet’s weight limit and cause it to crack or break.
Toilets with low-grade materials, or those that have been installed incorrectly, may be more prone to breaking than those that have been installed properly and/or made with higher-grade materials. It is also possible for a toilet to break if it is subjected to excessive and repeated impacts by someone jumping on, or sitting with all of their weight on, the toilet.
As a general rule of thumb, it is important to avoid standing and/or siting on the toilet lid to keep from putting too much strain on your toilet and risking breaking it.
How strong is a toilet bowl?
The strength of a toilet bowl will depend on its construction materials. High-quality porcelain toilet bowls are usually quite strong and can typically handle the weight of a user without breaking. Though porcelain is strong, it is susceptible to spalling or chipping, so care should be taken when placing heavy items or banging against the bowl.
Other materials such as plastic or wood might be somewhat less strong, though some plastic materials may be highly durable. The strength of a specific toilet bowl will vary depending on the type of material and how it was constructed.
Can I put a tankless toilet in my home?
Yes, you can put a tankless toilet in your home. Tankless toilets are space-saving and modern alternatives to traditional toilets. They’re easily installed into your existing bathroom or toilet space and will give your bathroom a stylish and contemporary upgrade.
Tankless toilets work by drawing water from a nearby source instead of relying on a water tank like traditional toilets. This type of toilet can reduce your water bills since it only uses as much water as necessary.
Plus, tankless toilets don’t require as much maintenance as regular toilets since there are no hidden components such as tanks. Finally, because they don’t require a tank, they can be more efficient and will consume less energy.
All of these benefits make tankless toilets an excellent upgrade for your home.
