CTS J-Hooks are available in various sizes and enable the expansion and contraction of multiple pipes. They provide a fast, economical way to hang copper, CPVC, and PEX pipes from joists and rafters. Made of high-impact ABS plastic, these J-hooks allow nails to sit flush against a wall or stud.
Best Practices for Pipe Support Installation
To ensure the satisfactory operation of a piping system, carefully consider support location and type. Plumbing codes require all piping and its contents to be supported so that the pipe maintains alignment and doesn’t sag.
Proper Sizing
Ensure that the pipe supports are correctly sized for the type of pipe material and diameter. Incorrectly sized supports can lead to excessive stress and noise. Oversized hangers, for example, can lead to pipe movement and additional noise.
Proper Spacing
Follow local code requirements for the spacing of pipe supports to provide adequate support without restricting necessary movement.
Always attach hangers and anchors to walls in accordance with local plumbing codes. For pipe sizes four inches and larger, provide sway bracing at directional changes of more than 45 degrees.
Support spacing should follow applicable plumbing and building codes. Below, we share the maximum horizontal and vertical spacing for Schedule 40 PVC, Schedule 40 ABS, CPVC, copper, and PEX, based on the IAPMO Uniform Plumbing Code and the International Plumbing Code.
However, the information below provides general guidelines and serves only as a reference. Engineering specifications for a particular project may require specific installation instructions.
● CPVC: Most plumbing and building codes require support for horizontal CPVC pipelines one inch and smaller every three feet; and for diameters 1-¼ inches and greater every four feet.
The UPC states that vertical spacing for CPVC piping should provide a mid-story guide and for expansion every 30 feet. See: Section 313.0 Hangers & Supports, Table 313.3.
The IPC designates the maximum vertical spacing of CPVC as 10 feet. For sizes two inches and smaller, a guide should be installed midway between the required vertical supports. Such guides will prevent pipe movement in a direction perpendicular to the pipe’s axis. See Section 308 Piping Support, Table 308.5.
● Copper: Most plumbing and building codes require support for horizontal copper pipelines 1-¼ inch and smaller every 6 feet. The IPC indicates supports to be placed every 10 feet for diameters 1-½ inches and greater; the UPC, every 10 feet for diameters 2 inches and greater.
The UPC and IPC both call for vertical spacing not to exceed 10 feet. See: Section 313.0 Hangers & Supports, Table 313.3 (UPC); and Section 308 Piping Support, Table 308.5 (IPC).
● PEX: The IPC requires support for horizontal PEX pipelines 1-¼ inch and smaller every 2.67 feet, or 32 inches. The UPC requires the same spacing support for pipelines 1 inch and smaller; and every four feet for 1-1/4 inch and larger diameters.
The IPC states that the maximum vertical spacing for PEX is 10 feet. For sizes two inches and smaller, a guide should be installed midway between the required vertical supports. Once again, such guides will prevent pipe movement in a direction perpendicular to the pipe’s axis. See Section 308 Piping Support, Table 308.5.
The UPC states that vertical spacing for PEX piping should provide a mid-story guide and for expansion every 30 feet. See: Section 313.0 Hangers & Supports, Table 313.3.
Properly sized and placed pipe supports are your first line of defense against the damaging effects of thermal expansion and contraction. They are not just about preventing leaks—they are about maintaining the overall integrity of your system.
Calculating the rate of thermal expansion for your specific piping material is crucial. This allows you to design a system that accommodates movement without compromising stability.
Mitigating the effects of thermal expansion and contraction in your piping systems is not just about compliance—it’s about ensuring the longevity of your infrastructure. Proper pipe supports, insulation, and expansion joints can make all the difference.
Sean Comerford is Manager, Inside Sales & Tech Support at Oatey Co. He is a third-generation tradesman with nearly 20 years of plumbing experience, including serving as the lead plumber for commercial/residential new-construction, service and fire protection jobs. He holds a State of Ohio Fire Protection License for Sprinkler and Standpipe.
