Kitec Installation Overview

Kitec pipe and fittings are easily handled and installed no matter which plumbing style you use.

Loop Style Slab Systems

Kitec’s unique performance and handling characteristics make it ideally suited for slab on grade construction. Kitec can be encased directly in concrete without further sleeving or protection. Loops of Kitec pipe are installed on grade, bent up and terminated above the finished slab elevation at fixture locations. Kitec keeps it shape when bent, making this style of plumbing, and the pouring of concrete slabs a straight forward job. Small slab manifolds of 3 or 4 outlets each are then attached to Kitec stub outs above the slab and subsequently ½" Kitec services individual fixtures.

Manifold System

Manifold plumbing systems offer a number of performance improvements over traditional overhead Tee type systems. Fewer fittings are required ensuring less flow restriction. Large 1" or ¾" Kitec pipes supply water to the manifold. Kitec ½" pipes run from the manifold to fixtures without pipe joints. Fewer pipe joints means less liability and less potential for leakage compared to stick style systems. Water pressure and flow are more constant and balanced– ensuring quick efficient delivery of hot and cold water to all fixtures within the home.

Modified Manifold

Some contractors and home builders prefer to have a number of smaller manifolds located within the home rather than a large centrally located manifold. This modified manifold approach to plumbing is common in both slab construction and hi rise plumbing. It allows for fewer fittings and balanced flow, while providing a number of local shutoff points to fixture groupings. As an example small hot and cold water manifolds with 3 or 4 ports each may be located within a master bath to service the hot and cold water requirements for that room only.

Support Spacing

Where Kitec pipe is installed in stud-walls or in suspended floors, little or no extra supports are needed. Kitec pipe does not sag or distort with heat and will be adequately supported by the studding or joist. Where Kitec is surface mounted, maximum support centers should be:

Horizontal - 1 Meter (3.28')

Vertical - 2 Meter (6.56')

Expansion & Contraction

Kitec pipe has a coefficient of linear expansion similar to copper tubing, and requires no special installation techniques such as offsets.

Installing Kitec Pipe in Walls & Floors

• Internal Stud Walls: Kitec's flexibility allows it to be installed easily into the stud walls by drilling the stud to accommodate the pipe. A metal cover may be used to protect the pipe from drywall nails.
• Wood Joist Floor Systems: Kitec's flexibility allows it to be easily installed by drilling joists and pulling the pipe through, or surface mounting. Consult your local building codes for any restrictions that may apply.

Insulation and Use in Frost-Risk Areas

While Kitec will withstand freezing conditions better than copper, we recommend that it be insulated to prevent freezing.

Information Source: IPEX, Inc.