Home Remodeling Projects Might Require Plumb Bobs To Locate Plumbing Pipes - Old School Tips
Greg recommends measuring everything on the ceiling before you cut the concrete and move dirt around the worksite. This is especially helpful if you’re dealing with multiple plumbing fixture locations or anticipate challenges during the plumbing relocation process. Planning ahead by marking the pipe locations on the ceiling beforehand can significantly reduce the time and effort required to locate the pipes once the concrete is removed.
Attach Plumb Bobs to the Marked Locations: After you’ve measured and marked the plumbing pipe locations on the ceiling lumber, attach plumb bobs to these markings. A plumb bob is a weight suspended on a string that indicates verticality. By attaching plumb bobs to the marked locations, you can transfer these markings down to the floor below, thereby pinpointing the exact locations of the plumbing pipes.
Bonus Tip: Use Multiple Plumb Bobs and Double-Check Measurements
For critical plumbing pipes or drainpipes, consider using multiple plumb bobs to ensure accuracy. Additionally, the author recommends double-checking your measurements by ensuring that the string suspending the plumb bob is perfectly plumb. You can achieve this by measuring the string from the framing plates above. This is particularly important if you’re concerned about bowed wall studs, as any leaning in or out of the wall can lead to inaccurate measurements if you’re referencing the wall itself.
Locate the Plumbing Pipes on the Floor: Once you’ve attached the plumb bobs and verified that your measurements are accurate, you can lower the plumb bobs down to the floor. The points directly below the plumb bobs will indicate the exact locations of the plumbing pipes on the floor. By following these steps, you can effectively relocate your plumbing pipes during your large building or home remodeling project.
Remember that you can always use more than one plumb bob, especially for critical plumbing locations. By taking the time to plan ahead and strategically using plumb bobs, you can ensure the accurate relocation of your plumbing pipes during your next remodeling project.
