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tailor
Dec 13, 2009, 09:03 AM
Hello to all,

My concerns are about possible leaks in the waste pipes once the subfloor is closed.
I do not have any of the equipment required to check these situations, am I being overcautious or do I have a legitimate concern.
I have cleaned and primed and glued the pieces as per instructions, except the last 2 pieces, the flange and vertical extension which will go through the subfloor.
I added to an existing waste pipe, lengthening it, a 90 elbow and the toilet flange, which will eventually be anchored to the subfloor.
How can I be certain of my work... it all looks good, but that I know it is in no way a solid test. I would hate to have to pull up the subfloor, vinyl flooring, once everything is place.
I have tried pouring water down the pipe, but without a "blockage" or balloon down stream to hold the water, there is no seepage as the flow is unrestricted. Is a ballon the only way?

Does anybody have some sage advice on this matter?

massplumber2008
Dec 13, 2009, 09:12 AM
Hi Tailor...

Take an 18" piece of pipe and dry fit it into the elbow for the toilet. Then take a garden hose and stick it down inside the pipe... turn it on full flow and let it run for 5 minutes. If no leaks occur you should be just fine... ;)

Good luck!

MARK

tailor
Dec 13, 2009, 09:27 AM
Thanks Mark,

I must assume that the hose should go a little beyond the elbow as I may get some leakage at the dry fitting!!
Or is it good enough to insert the hose about half way down
So it does not spray like a crazed serpent all over the place( I will have a helper hold it)

I will have to rig something up in house as outside temps are now below zero and the "garden connections " are all off.
Aha, the laundry will do nicely!

Thanks

Tailor

speedball1
Dec 13, 2009, 10:02 AM
Drainage lines are not subject to the same pressure as water lines. My bet i8s that test or no test you're going to be just fine. Good luck, Tom

massplumber2008
Dec 13, 2009, 11:45 AM
Insert the hose just past the elbow and using a helper is a very good idea. Good luck!

tailor
Dec 13, 2009, 12:13 PM
Gentleman, thank you both for your input... now nothing seems insurmountable :D

Tailor