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Vertical Vent — Install the Shower Drain Line

Beginner

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Shower Rough-In Plumbing: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 2 of 4

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In this video

To connect the vent pipe to a vertical drain pipe ensure it extends above the drain pipe's center line to prevent any siphoning of water out of the trap seals of other fixtures.

Goal: Connect the vent pipe above the center line.

  • Rotating vent connector more than 45 degrees may not be allowed by your local building code.

Used in this video

  • Combo sweep connector (Tool Type: Pipe fitting) — Connecting vent to drain pipe.
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FAQs

How difficult is this shower rough-in project for a beginner, and what's a realistic time estimate?

While labeled "beginner," this project requires meticulous attention to detail for measurements and connections. A novice can accomplish it, but allocate at least a full weekend, or even longer, to work carefully, learn the process, and handle any unforeseen challenges without rushing.

The tool list includes a "Zest Candle." Is that correct, and are the PEX-specific tools like the crimp tool absolutely necessary?

The "Zest Candle" is an error and is not needed for plumbing. However, specialized PEX tools such as the PEX cutter and a crimp tool are absolutely essential for creating secure, leak-proof connections. You can often rent these specific PEX tools from home improvement stores if you prefer not to purchase them.

What are the most common causes of leaks in PEX supply lines, and how can I ensure my connections are watertight?

Leaks typically stem from improper crimping or damaged tubing. Always make clean, perpendicular cuts with your PEX cutter, ensure fittings are fully seated, and use your crimp tool correctly. Crucially, check every crimped connection with a go/no-go gauge for proper tightness.

How should I thoroughly test the PEX supply lines for leaks before closing up the walls?

After capping all open PEX ends, slowly introduce water pressure to the system. Inspect every connection point visually for drips, listen for any hissing, and feel for moisture. Keep the system pressurized for several hours and re-check periodically to catch any slow leaks before proceeding.

Transcript
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of an inch to a quarter of an inch minimum slope per foot. Next up let's take a look at a vertical to a horizontal pipe connection and in this situation here this is now the drain pipe. This is the vent for the toilet and the building code requires it to be vertical or at the most tilted about 45 degrees and I'm not talking about this tilt right here. This is just a way of connecting the vent to the drain pipe. You can actually use a combo sweep connector like this to connect your vent to the drain line and as you guessed it the vertical to horizontal will actually be vertical and we simply rotated the fitting 90 degrees from our previous example and I went ahead and filled this up with drainage waste water to give you an idea of how the water will flow near the bottom allowing the air to flow above it to prevent it from creating any type

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