From the street to the fixture
Water enters the building through a service line from the municipal main or, in some locations, a private source. A meter, shutoff and often a backflow device sit near the entry. From there, piping branches to washrooms, kitchens, equipment and hot water systems.
Pipe size depends on how many fixtures are served and how they might be used at once. Undersized pipe causes pressure drops when several fixtures run together.
Materials
- Copper, a long-standing choice for commercial water
- Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) where code and the project allow it
- Stainless steel for special applications
- Insulation on hot, cold and exposed lines
- Shutoff valves and access to key points
- Pressure-reducing valves or booster pumps where needed
Pressure, flow and fire protection
Municipal pressure varies by location. Low pressure on upper floors or long runs can call for a booster pump, and high pressure can call for a regulator. We test pressure early to avoid redesigns.
Water for fire sprinklers is a separate system, designed by others, but it often shares the building entry. We coordinate the entry so both work.
Freeze protection and testing
Alberta winters mean supply lines near exterior walls, loading doors and unheated spaces need protection. We route lines through warm areas and insulate where unavoidable. In renovations we trace existing lines before cutting.
All piping is pressure tested before closing walls, and inspected under the Safety Codes system. Systems are flushed and disinfected where required before use.
Water quality is worth a thought. Hardness varies, and some tenants, like cafes and labs, add filtration or softening. Tell us early so we can leave room. Because our plumbers work with our mechanical crew, heating and hot water connections are done together. Our maintenance team can provide shutoff exercises and leak checks after handover.