Replacing exterior wall water pipes is a complex job that requires certain steps to be followed and safety measures to be taken into account. Before starting any work, it is important to ensure that you have the relevant technical knowledge, skills, and safety operating procedures. If you don't have the appropriate professional background and experience, it is highly recommended to hire a professional plumber to do the job. Here's a basic guide to replacing your exterior water pipes.
1. Preparations
1. Assess the current situation
Inspect existing exterior water pipes to see what they are made of, how they are sized, and how they pass through the wall.
Determine the direction and connection points of the pipe.
2. Design scheme
Design the direction of the new pipes according to the building structure and the layout of the water pipes.
Choose the appropriate material (e.g. PVC, copper pipe, or stainless steel).
3. Preparation of tools and materials
Determine the tools you need: pipe cutters, wrenches, screwdrivers, rigs, etc.
Prepare pipeline materials and fittings: pipe segments, fittings, valves, brackets, etc.
Protective equipment: helmets, goggles, gloves, etc.
4. Notify relevant parties
If necessary, notify the downstairs neighbors and property management.
Obtain permits or approvals that may be required.
Second, the construction steps
1. Close the water source and empty the pipeline.
Close the main water valve: Find and close the main water valve in the building to cut off the water source.
Drain the pipes: Open the faucet at the end of the water pipe and drain the water from the pipe.
2. Dismantle the old pipeline.
Security measures: Ensure the safety of the construction site and set up warning signs.
Dismantle the pipes: Use a suitable tool to remove the old pipes fixed to the wall, carefully remove the brackets and clamps fixed to the exterior wall.
3. Install new pipelines.
Marking and drilling: Mark the location of the new pipe on the wall according to the design plan. Use a drill rig to drill holes in the wall and install new brackets.
Pipe connections: Insert the new pipe through the hole in the wall, properly dock and secure it. Use professional tools to ensure the tightness and firmness of the pipe connection.
Install the accessories: Install new faucets, valves, and other accessories. Make sure all fittings are sealed and there is no risk of leakage.
Fixation and protection: Install brackets in the appropriate places for the pipes to ensure that the new pipes are stable on the wall. If possible, add a protective layer to reduce the impact of environmental factors.
4. Inspection and testing.
Preliminary examination: Before opening the main water valve, check all connections and fixing points again.
Step-by-step pressurization test: Slowly open the main water valve and gradually increase the water pressure. Observe for leaks to ensure the stability of the system.
Integrity testing: Run the system at normal water pressure for several hours to check its integrity.
5. Completion and cleanup.
Restore the surroundings: Clean up the construction site and restore it to its original state.
Landscaping treatment: If needed, carry out wall repairs and paint to beautify the installation area.
Final inspection: Perform a final visual inspection and functional test to make sure everything is working properly.
Summary:
Replacing façade water pipes is a heavy and technically demanding task. In order to ensure the safety and quality of the project, it is recommended to entrust it to a professional plumber unless you have the necessary skills and knowledge yourself. Safety always comes first, never work without proper equipment and protection. At any time, if you encounter a problem that is difficult to solve, you should seek professional help.