Run PEX Water Supply Lines — Locate and Mark Water Supply Lines
Part of project
How to Measure Bathroom Plumbing Rough-In Dimensions for a New Vanity · Step 5 of 6
In this video
Run the hot and cold water supply lines. Start by connecting to the existing main water lines in the ceiling. In this case, push-to-connect (SharkBite) valves are attached to pre-existing copper tees. From the valves, run PEX tubing through the wall framing. Drill holes in the center of the studs to route the PEX. Run 3/4-inch cold PEX to supply all three fixtures (toilet, sink, shower) and 1/2-inch hot PEX to supply the sink and shower. Secure the pipes with hangers and install stub-outs at each fixture location.
Goal: Plumbing Pipe Installation (PEX)
- Use steel nail plates over studs where pipes pass through to protect them from future drywall screws or nails.
- Adhere to local plumbing codes regarding pipe sizing. The cold line here required a larger 3/4-inch pipe because it serves three fixtures.
Used in this video
- PEX Cutter (Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual) — Making clean, square cuts on PEX tubing.
- PEX Crimp Tool (Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual) — Securing PEX fittings onto the tubing using crimp rings.
- Drill (Tool Type: Power Tools, Power Source: Cordless) — Drilling holes through wall studs to route the PEX tubing.
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FAQs
Is this project genuinely beginner-friendly, and can I expect to complete the measuring process within the estimated 3 hours?
Yes, this project is well-suited for beginners as it primarily involves careful measuring and marking, not actual plumbing installation. The 3-hour estimate is realistic, assuming you have all your tools and the new vanity's specifications readily available. Accuracy is more important than speed for this step.
Do I need the specific brand-name tape measures listed, or can I use a standard measuring tape and level?
While specific brands are listed for tools, any standard, accurate 25 ft. tape measure and a reliable 2-foot level will work perfectly. The critical factor is ensuring your tools are in good working order and provide clear, precise readings for accurate marking on the wall.
What are the most critical measurements to double-check to avoid costly errors during the rough-in process?
The most critical measurements are the vanity's centerline, the height and horizontal spacing of the drain pipe, and the hot/cold supply lines. Always double-check these against your new vanity's internal dimensions, especially where the sink basin, P-trap, and supply lines will connect, to ensure everything fits without obstruction.
Before marking the wall, should I take any precautions regarding existing pipes or electrical wiring that might be behind the drywall?
While you are only marking the wall, it's a good practice to use a stud finder with AC detection to identify potential electrical lines or hidden studs. This awareness can help you avoid marking directly over sensitive areas, which is beneficial if you later need to cut into the wall for actual plumbing work.
Run PEX Water Supply Lines — Locate and Mark Water Supply Lines
Part of project
How to Measure Bathroom Plumbing Rough-In Dimensions for a New Vanity · Step 5 of 6
In this video
Run the hot and cold water supply lines. Start by connecting to the existing main water lines in the ceiling. In this case, push-to-connect (SharkBite) valves are attached to pre-existing copper tees. From the valves, run PEX tubing through the wall framing. Drill holes in the center of the studs to route the PEX. Run 3/4-inch cold PEX to supply all three fixtures (toilet, sink, shower) and 1/2-inch hot PEX to supply the sink and shower. Secure the pipes with hangers and install stub-outs at each fixture location.
Goal: Plumbing Pipe Installation (PEX)
- Use steel nail plates over studs where pipes pass through to protect them from future drywall screws or nails.
- Adhere to local plumbing codes regarding pipe sizing. The cold line here required a larger 3/4-inch pipe because it serves three fixtures.
Used in this video
- PEX Cutter (Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual) — Making clean, square cuts on PEX tubing.
- PEX Crimp Tool (Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual) — Securing PEX fittings onto the tubing using crimp rings.
- Drill (Tool Type: Power Tools, Power Source: Cordless) — Drilling holes through wall studs to route the PEX tubing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this project genuinely beginner-friendly, and can I expect to complete the measuring process within the estimated 3 hours?
Yes, this project is well-suited for beginners as it primarily involves careful measuring and marking, not actual plumbing installation. The 3-hour estimate is realistic, assuming you have all your tools and the new vanity's specifications readily available. Accuracy is more important than speed for this step.
Do I need the specific brand-name tape measures listed, or can I use a standard measuring tape and level?
While specific brands are listed for tools, any standard, accurate 25 ft. tape measure and a reliable 2-foot level will work perfectly. The critical factor is ensuring your tools are in good working order and provide clear, precise readings for accurate marking on the wall.
What are the most critical measurements to double-check to avoid costly errors during the rough-in process?
The most critical measurements are the vanity's centerline, the height and horizontal spacing of the drain pipe, and the hot/cold supply lines. Always double-check these against your new vanity's internal dimensions, especially where the sink basin, P-trap, and supply lines will connect, to ensure everything fits without obstruction.
Before marking the wall, should I take any precautions regarding existing pipes or electrical wiring that might be behind the drywall?
While you are only marking the wall, it's a good practice to use a stud finder with AC detection to identify potential electrical lines or hidden studs. This awareness can help you avoid marking directly over sensitive areas, which is beneficial if you later need to cut into the wall for actual plumbing work.