Still OK to use iron pipe for venting?
 

I'm going to be running a vent pipe from a basement bathroom up to the roof. I'd like to use iron pipe for the venting so as to avoid the possibility of somebody putting a nail or drywall screw into the pipe and allowing sewer gas to escape into the house.

Is iron pipe still allowed for venting?

Thanks!
toddmanqa

Just a sample: 4" x 10' cast iron at Lowes: $82; 4" x 10' PVC $4.35.
Add in the weight and supports you'll need, plus cutting and joining sections, transitions to other waste laterals, I'd go with PVC. How likely is the nail/screw penetration danger? Pipe should be protected from those in any case when installed unless you live in a dart or nail gun testing place. THe iron will be quieter though if that is a consideration.

Cast iron is still acceptable here--and our codes are very restrictive---However,Your location is missing---check the local codes--most are available on line from your local building department.

Seems like a lot of work and expense to prevent such a rare and unusual event---but if it makes you happier about your home---go for it!

Protected?
 

I'm in Albany, NY.

I'm aware that I have to add metal plates where PVC pipes pass through studs/plates. But, wouldn't a nail or screw go right into the PVC where the pipe wasn't studded/protected?

And I've added my location to my profile.

Usually, a nail/screw through drywall/plaster will glance off of iron pipe.
Through a stud - different story.
In fact - a nail/screw through drywall/plaster will "usually", just glance off
of "PVC".
Unless, it's "perfectly" lined up -
that's happened!

"RF"

You can vent above ground with cast iron, gal. steel, copper or your locally approved plastic. Take your pick. I'd choose plastic and nail plates.

Another vote for plastic here.


If it was a waste line, you could be a little more worried about it. Screw goes in, seals hole.

In a vent, it will probably stay sealed for 100 years. The excessive water and other fluids in a waste pipe corrode the screws and then when they rot out you have a leaker.


Plastic is fine. Everyone is doing it. :wink: