Significant changes to the 2018 International Mechanical Code

The 2018 Significant Changes guides are available for the International Building, Residential, Fire, Plumbing, Mechanical and Fuel Gas Codes. This valuable series can help any code user save time by zeroing in on the most critical changes in the 2018 International Codes. The Code Council’s technical experts provide summaries, analysis and graphics for these changes making them clear and easy to understand.

2018 International Plumbing Code

A modification to Section 305.6 (Protection against Physical Damage) states that for concealed piping installed through holes or notches, the minimum distance to the face of the framing member without protection has been reduced.

The minimum dimension from the face of a framing member has been reduced slightly to match the minimum distance permitted by the National Electrical Code for this same situation where wiring penetrates framing members in concealed locations. This will make it easier for inspectors to remember the minimum distance. Note that the International Mechanical Code and International Fuel Gas Code still require a minimum of 11/2 inches between the edge of the hole and the nearest edge of the framing member. The reduced dimension will make is easier to place piping in walls. For the common application of 1/2- inch gypsum board on framing members, the use of 11/2-inch long screws still offers sufficient leeway for a screw that might be slightly over driven without causing damage to the piping.

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