Political Detours on the Road to Construction Code Acceptance
The decision to include or eliminate a building material in the building code may be argued on its virtues, environmental impact and health issues; in reality, it's more likely a case of political clout. The role of politics regarding the inclusion or exclusion of plastic pipe and fittings in building codes is unmistakable, as well as legendary.
Properly chosen and properly installed plastic pipe and fittings are a viable choice in just about any plumbing application. They have been proven to be cost effective, easy to install, corrosion resistant, durable and environmentally beneficial. The plastic pipe and fittings manufacturing community has known this for decades and has worked diligently to educate the construction industry, the regulatory community and the general public. They have been successful on all fronts. Plastic pipe and fittings are now frequently chosen for use in new and remodeled construction throughout the country in single family, residential and many commercial installations.