What Is Used to Attach a Vent Pipe to the Side of a Building?

Vent pipes are secured in different ways depending on their direction.

The longevity of a vent pipe is directly related to how well it is secured to the building. This is because a loose vent's joints slowly deteriorate. Vent pipes are used to move combustible products to a safe location, deliver air to an appliance or provide a safe path for sewer gases to exit the plumbing system.

Vent Pipe Hanger

A vent pipe hanger is a metal bracket that is specifically sized for the diameter of the pipe. It is wrapped tightly around the pipe and secured by tightening a compression bolt. The bracket is then fastened directly to the wall using mounting hardware appropriate for the wall material. It is available in galvanized, stainless and regular steel. The hangers should be secured to the building's structure to give it the most strength.

Offset Pipe Bracket

The offset pipe bracket is similar to a pipe hanger except it is specifically designed to hold the pipe away from the wall. This is important for pipes carrying hot combustion products because it keeps the heat away from the combustible walls. One end wraps around the pipe and is secured tightly with two bolts, while the mounting bracket is fastened to the wall with the appropriate hardware. The distance the pipe is held from the wall is determined by the fuel being burned and local building code regulations.

Metal Strapping

Metal strapping is a flexible thin metal used for securing pipes on horizontal runs with a structure above. It is used because it is inexpensive, easy to work with, and quickly adjusts to the requirements of the project. One end is screwed to the side of a wood joint and the strap is run under the pipe and back up to the joist where it is secured again. It is sold in rolls and is cut using a pair of tin snips.

Caulking

For vent pipes carrying air, high-efficiency appliance exhaust products, and sewer gasses, caulking is used at the point the pipe penetrates the wall system. While the metal brackets, on either side of the caulking, provide the pipe's structural support. The caulking provides the seal to keep the building's walls weather tight.

Sealing

Proper sealing of all vent pipe penetrations is very important to keep water out of the wall system, rodents out of the building and to maintain the building's heating and cooling efficiency.