July 12th 2024
I often wonder: can plumbing pipes be run on an exterior wall in your home? And the answer is yes, but with a few things to consider.
How to Run Plumbing Pipes on an Exterior Wall of a House
Benefits and Challenges
Running plumbing pipes on an exterior wall in a house can save space and simplify the layout of a home. It can be particularly advantageous in smaller homes or renovations where interior wall space is at a premium. There are potential drawbacks, though, and many of those are related to exposure to the outside world.
Insulation is Key
The primary concern with exterior wall plumbing is the risk of pipes freezing in cold weather. Water expands as it freezes. If that is happening inside your pipes, they may burst, and that could potentially be a very costly problem to fix with water damage. Good insulation will prevent that from happening. Insulating the pipes and the wall cavity keeps the water at temperature, ensuring that it will flow correctly even in winter.
Modern Solutions
Luckily, there are modern solutions that make exterior wall plumbing more feasible. For example, PEX piping is less prone to freezing and bursting compared to traditional materials like copper and PVC. Moreover, heat tape or cable that supplies heat directly to the pipes can be installed for added protection.
Planning and Precautions
If you’re contemplating exterior wall plumbing, engage a professional plumber who can analyze your situation and suggest the best materials and insulation techniques. They can also ensure that the local building codes are followed, many of which have requirements for exterior wall installations.
Conclusion
While it can be done to install plumbing pipes on an exterior wall, and in some instances, it’s actually a benefit, it does require a little bit of planning along with the right materials to keep problems, like freezing, from occurring. With proper insulation and today’s modern plumbing technologies, you too can enjoy the benefits of having your plumbing run through an exterior wall without the headaches.
In conclusion, yes, plumbing pipes can be in an outside wall; just make sure to take all of the precautions necessary to have the system run smoothly through every season.
