Im putting a bathroom in my basement. Should I use 1/2 or 3/4 pipe? The shower valve I purchased is 3/4. I have not put in any pipe yet but the bathroom will have a toilet, shower, and sink.

Hi Davek812

The answer really depends on the specific pipe or tubing you are using and the number of shower heads you plan on installing at the new shower.

If you are just going to have one shower head then 1/2" to your bathroom should be fine. More than 1 shower head and I would send 3/4" tubing over for best shower experience.

If you are using PEX tubing you just have to make sure that the fittings are full size 1/2" inside diameter...if not full size ID, then bump up to 3/4" PEX. If you are using copper tubing or CPVC then 1/2" is fine for one shower head bathroom...otherwise, bump it up to 3/4" for multi. Heads.

Back to you...

Mark

Our code mandates that no more then three fixtures be supplied by 1/2". If you have more then three then come in with 3/4" and branch off with a 3/4 by 1/2 by 1/2 tee. Good luck, Tom

In my area, each bathroom must be supplied by pipe no smaller than 3/4" main run and 1/2" branches to individual plumbing fixtures. Now if you have elaborate shower design with multiple valves and shower heads - and want good water flow - increase main run to 1" and branches to 3/4". Hope that helps. Back to you. Milo