In a sense, all drains go through the floor. You cannot have a code-approved sink drain going down, unless you have a vent going up.
Likewise, Can I use silicone instead of plumbers putty?
Both plumber’s putty and silicone are sealing compounds designed to provide a water tight fit for pop up drains, sink strainers, undersides of fittings, showers and drains. Plumber’s putty is more traditional while silicone caulking is a more modern product, but either one (in most cases) can get the job done.
Also, Can you put a 90 in a sink drain?
It’s fine to have a larger-radius (sweep) 90-degree bend at the base of a vertical drainage stack where the wastewater starts to travel horizontally. It’s also a good idea to have a sweep 90-degree fitting where a drain pipe pops out of a wall for a kitchen, vanity or laundry sink.
Moreover, Can a p-trap be higher than the drain pipe?
It is not ideal to have the p-trap below the the exit drain because water gravity has to force the water out instead of it flowing downwards naturally. They both work and have seen it many times. But essentially anything below already creates its own p-trap- so using another is redundant.
Why is an S trap illegal?
Back to “S” traps – The reason “S” traps aren’t allowed is because they have the potential to suck, or ‘siphon’, water out of the trap as the water flows down the drain. … Believe it or not, enough water to break the water seal at the trap and let sewer gases come in to the house.
Should I use silicone or plumbers putty for sink drain?
You must seal the area between a sink’s drain body and the actual sink surface. Otherwise water will leak out between the two and begin dripping under the sink. Some plumbers and installers favor plumber’s putty for installing drains, while others lean toward the more modern waterproof material called silicone caulk.
When should you not use plumbers putty?
Do not use plumber’s putty where you need adhesive strength (to bond materials or prevent them from moving) or where you need a watertight seal in exposed areas.
Do you have to put plumbers putty on sink drain?
The plumber’s putty must always be applied at the bottom of the sink and the sink must be placed with all the pressure on the countertop. Tips for using plumber’s putty. Even though the putty is better than the silicone and caulk in several situations, the plumber’s putty cannot stand as a solution in all areas.
How far below drain should P-trap be?
However, the Universal Plumbing Code stipulates that the total developed length of all tailpieces, arms and fittings connecting the drain to the p-trap must be 24 inches or less.
Does the vent go before or after the P-trap?
Plain and simple, the vent comes AFTER the trap. A vent before the trap does absolutely nothing. The open drain inlet at the bottom of the sink is the vent before the trap. It is why fixtures do not need ANY vent to drain, they need a proper drain to not siphon the trap.
Are tub drains and sink drains the same size?
Are all bathroom sink drains the same size? While a bathroom sink’s design and overall size may vary from one model to the next, the drain holes are fairly standard, 1.25 inches being a general standard, with widths of 1.5 inches and 1.625 inches also common.
How far can p-trap be from drain?
According to the International Residential Code, the maximum vertical distance between the sink drain and the entrance to the p-trap is 24 inches.
What can I use instead of p-trap?
Recently I discovered the amazing HepvO Waterless Valve. It’s a new solution to this old problem. Using a flexible silicon tube inside that seals out air but allows water to flow in one direction, it performs the same task without using any water and without being large and bulky like a p-trap.
Which is better P-trap or S trap?
P-traps are generally considered by most to be more effective and consistent in maintaining water trap compared to S-traps. Their design makes them less vulnerable to drying out and losing seal: a properly installed P-trap will never lose its water seal.
Do shower drains have S bends?
The trap in the shower drain works like the one beneath the kitchen sink. … The S-shape allows water to drain vertically upon clearing through the S-shaped curve rather than draining horizontally. The bottom area of the shower trap holds some water that seals the drain against sewer gases.
What is the difference between a J bend and a P-trap?
The J-bend beneath the sink is also referred to as the P-trap, the U-bend and sometimes even just the drain trap. … In some cases, however, hand-tightening may not seat the washer correctly, particularly if your drain pipes are metal, so slip-joint pliers will often come in handy.
Why should you not use plumbers putty on plastic?
Most plumber’s putty is petroleum-based, which keeps the material pliable and resistant to water for long periods of time. However, the petroleum component in the putty causes the chemical structure of plastic materials to degrade, or break down.
Can you use silicone on kitchen sink drain?
Sealing around kitchen sinks or sealing a sink drain with silicone will keep your sink in good condition and prevent future problems. Using a high quality, waterproof sealant prevents water and debris from entering the gaps.
Which is better Teflon tape or plumbers putty?
Teflon tape gives a reliable seal on threaded pipe joints for liquids and gases that may be under considerable pressure. Plumber’s putty acts as a flexible caulk in situations where you need water resistance—but it cannot withstand any significant pressure.
Why can’t you use plumbers putty on plastic?
The putty can attack the chrome plating on the plastic drain and cause it to come off. Usually, plastic drains have a “foam” or rubber gasket to place under the drain “flange” so you do not have to use any sealant.
Are bathroom sink drains universal?
While a bathroom sink’s design and overall size may vary from one model to the next, the drain holes are fairly standard, 1.25 inches being a general standard, with widths of 1.5 inches and 1.625 inches also common. The size of the hole helps determine which size drain is needed for that particular sink.
Does the trap have to be directly below the shower drain?
The “P” trap SHOULD be directly under the drain, but no more than a few inches off center of it, if conditions require it. NO trap, TWO traps, and/or a 9 foot offset are NOT allowed and if he suggests any of them get a different installer who is a REAL plumber. MASTERPLUMB777 likes this.
Can P-trap installed backwards?
The outlet end of the trap pipe should be lower than the inlet when installed properly. The example shown has it backward, which creates a trap seal more than 4” and makes the drain more likely to clog—and that’s a long explanation for why a backwards trap is a bad thing.
Do I need a trap for washing machine drain?
When hooking up a new washing machine, some people look for a convenient drain line and simply install a pipe that extends to the washer. … The lack of a P-trap exposes the area to sewer fumes and the lack of venting will cause the drain to run sluggishly and overflow. Washers, like all fixtures, need a trap.