HomeMy WebLinkAbout06052008 BSC Agenda Item 3
City of West University Place eTexas
Memo
To: Building and Standards Commission
From: Debbie Scarcella, City Planner/Interim Building Official
Date: June 1, 2008
Re: Request for Use of PEXa Piping in West U
Mr. Robert Zvanut with PMI Sales & Marketing has requested the opportunity to make a presentation
to the BSC regarding PEX piping. Specifically, PEXa piping is a cross-linked polyethylene pipe
specifically made for the installation of water piping. PEXa piping is highly durable, yet flexible, and
has enhanced temperature capability and long-term strength. When compared to metal piping, the
PEXa pipe has low thermal conductivity, which reduces heat loss and condensation. The PEXa pipe is
used in conjunction with solid brass connectors that do not need heat, flame, or solvent to install.
The use of this system has been approved through the testing agency of the International Code
Congress and is listed as an approved pipe for both above ground and underground installation in the
International Plumbing Code, 2003 edition.
Appendix C of the Code of Ordinances prohibits the use of polyethylene water piping in West
University Place. Most water distribution systems in West U are currently installed with copper pipe.
The cost of copper piping has risen dramatically in the last several years and has become, along with
mechanical system copper tubing and copper wiring, a favorite target of construction site thieves.
There have been multiple copper piping and electrical wiring thefts from structures under construction
in West University Place in the last six months. In some cases, the loss of time to replace the stolen
systems hurt the property owners more than the cost of the stolen merchandise. The PEXa pipe is
about the same cost to install as copper piping, but the attraction for theft of the piping is much less.
The BSC has several options after hearing this request:
1. Instruct staff to prepare a draft ordinance revision allowing the use of the PEXa piping
system;
2. Holding a public hearing to grant a variance for the use of the piping in each specific
location, if requested by the property owner; or
3. Taking no action, which would leave Appendix C as is, prohibiting the installation of
polyethylene piping for water distribution systems.
Browning Staff Report Page 1
PMI Sales & Marketing
8967 Market Street
Houston, TX 77029
Tel.713-674-8735
Fax 713-672-6000
jhalipmil@peoplepc.com
Debbie Scarcella
City of West University Place
3826 Amherst Street
West University Place, Texas 77005
Re: Rehau PEXa Plumbing Systems
Dear Ms. Scarcella:
Thank you for the time that you and Mr.Solis spent with me last week
discussing Pex tubing for use in plumbing systems. I would now like to
move to the next level with the City of West University Place and present
the Rehau PEXa plumbing system to your Building & Standards
Commission.
If at all possible, would you please add me to the agenda for the June Stn
meeting? I understand that this meeting will start at 6:00 pm. I will also
need to know how much time I will be allowed so that I can prepare an
appropriate length discussion.
Thanks for your help!
Sincerely
Joe Hall