[Alix]

I've demoed my tub enclosure in preparation for putting in new tile over cement board. While I have the wall open, I figured I should upgrade the existing galvanized pipe to copper. I'm hoping someone can guide me through the process--what I need to do, and what materials I should use, etc. It's an unfinished ceiling in the basement below, so if I put in new pipes I can join them to the existing galvanized pipes in the basement. (Re-plumbing the house with pex is a project that's a year or two off). I know only the slightest bit about plumbing (I've replaced tailpieces and p-traps, but I don't really know how to go about changing these parts out, or how the connections will be made, etc.).

Here's a picture of the existing plumbing. (The tub spout screws on to that stub of galvanized pipe--It's a Delta pull down diverter spout)

Thanks,
Alix

 

[md2lgyk]

Unless you're experienced in sweating (soldering) copper pipes and fittings, I suggest you use CPVC instead. It is much easier to work with and far less expensive than copper. The parts basically just glue together. There are transition fittings for connecting CPVC to copper, and vice-versa.

If you have a lot of galvanized pipe to remove, get yourself a pipe wrench.

 

[VIPlumber]

Make that 2 pipe wrenches. 1 to turn the pipe/fitting and 1 to hold the downstream fitting/pipe in place.

 

[DannyT]

i would definitely get rid of all the galvanized thats in the wall while you have it open. then when you eventually repipe that part is already done.

 

[Alix]

Make that 2 pipe wrenches. 1 to turn the pipe/fitting and 1 to hold the downstream fitting/pipe in place.

I have one pipe wrench already--can I use channel locks for the other, or should it be another pipe wrench?

 

[oh'mike]

Get a second pipe wrench--a quality one with sharp teeth.

If your plumbing is really fragile-(and can't be unscrewed without breaking)--there are compression fittings available that will attach to a sawed off 1/2" steel pipe--and then take 3/4" copper on the other end of the fitting--which you reduce down to 1/2" copper.