Understanding DWV Piping and Heating Systems

Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) piping

To carry sanitary waste to the sewer or septic system

DWV piping systems rely on venting

To remove sewer gases and prevent air pressure obstruction

Common materials for DWV piping in wood light frame construction

PVC and cast iron

Water supply piping

Carries hot and cold domestic water to fixtures

Forced-air heating system

Push heated air through supply ducts to building spaces

Hydronic radiant heating system

Heat is provided by heated water moving through pipes embedded in floors

Component needed in a forced-air heating system for air conditioning

An exterior compressor and evaporator

Primary purpose of insulation in wood light frame construction

Reduce heat transfer through walls and ceilings

Thermal bridging

Occurs when framing members interrupt insulation and create areas with lower thermal resistance

Radiant barriers

Used primarily in warmer regions to reduce heat flow into the building

Purpose of a vapor retarder

Prevent water vapor from condensing inside insulation

Potential issue with radiant barriers

They lose effectiveness if their reflective surface becomes dulled by dust or corrosion

Gypsum wallboard

Provides a high degree of fire resistance and adaptability to painting or wallpapering

Function of joint compound in gypsum wallboard installation

To level and smooth joints and fasteners

Level 5 finish on drywall

Applying a skim coat of joint compound over the entire surface for a smooth finish

Veneer plaster

Creates a smoother and more durable surface because it is bonded chemically to blueboard and forms a harder surface than joint compound

Millwork

All wood interior finish components, such as moldings, cabinets, and stairs

Importance of ventilating moisture before installing millwork

To allow the wood to acclimate to indoor conditions

Flush doors

Characterized by plain facings on both sides

Main function of baseboards in interior finish work

Cover gaps between the floor and wall for a finished look

Function of lightweight gypsum or Portland cement underlayment in multistory buildings

To provide a smooth, level surface for finish flooring materials

Engineered wood flooring

Preferred because it is less expensive than solid wood and offers greater dimensional stability