How should plumbing systems accommodate for building settlement?

To ensure that plumbing systems remain functional and efficient amidst building settlement, the use of flexible connections is essential. As buildings settle, the shifting and movement can place stress on the plumbing infrastructure. Flexible connections are designed to absorb some of this movement without causing damage or stress fractures in the piping system.

These flexible connections can adjust to changing angles and movements that occur due to settlement, allowing for a more resilient plumbing system. In contrast, rigid joints would not be able to accommodate these shifts, increasing the risk of leaks or breaks in the plumbing.

Lowering the height of pipes may not address the problem of settlement adequately, nor does it provide the necessary adaptation to movement. Similarly, increasing pipe thickness may enhance durability but does not resolve the issue of accommodating movement caused by building settlement. Overall, incorporating flexible connections is a best practice to safeguard the integrity of plumbing systems in response to building alterations.