Miller Mechanical Uses HoldRite DWV Testing and Fixture Boxes for Residential Build
When it comes to residential new construction, it’s common knowledge that meeting project timelines is a priority. Alongside that, foreman Gerald Coleman with Miller Mechanical knows that minimal damage to the job site is also paramount.
That’s why, when contracted for a residential new build boasting 12 apartments and about 100 town homes across 32 acres in Atlanta, he turned to two specific HoldRite solutions — TestRite DWV testing systems and fixture outlet boxes — to get the job done.
Solving for Unnecessary Water Damage
In the past, Coleman has dealt with imperfect solutions that caused more headaches than solved problems sometimes. For instance, other DWV testing methods his team used would often crack and cause leakage on the job site. This not only caused damage to the property, but it also posed a safety risk for workers.
Read more: DWV Testing: How TestRite Improves Safety, Testing Times and Cost Savings
He encountered a similar problem when performing roughing in new plumbing fixtures in the buildings under tight time constraints. In previous years, they would install traditional stub-outs, and when they cut them after testing, there would be excess water in the pipe. This opened the possibility of damaged cabinets if the team didn’t catch the water with a bucket.
“Sometimes they get in a rush and don't tighten [the fixtures] up properly, and there's a leak and we don't notice it until it goes down three floors,” Coleman said.
Easier, Safer Plumbing Solutions for New Fixture Installation and DWV Testing
To help finish jobs with the least amount of damage possible, Coleman switched to HoldRite TestRite for a safer, drier and quicker DWV testing method. The main appeal is the way the test wedges fit to create triple seal protection, keeping contractors dry and the test site safe from water spill hazards.
HoldRite’s DWV test wedges temporarily block the DWV stack on multiple floors for up to five levels of pressure testing. They also come with a valve option that allows you to fill and drain — or save — water directly from the test point. That way you can run a test on multiple levels in sequence or drain out and refill wherever you need — safely.
There's no leakage on the floor. All you do is open up the little valve and it's all going down into the sewer. That helped us.
The new HoldRite fixture boxes also help the Miller Mechanical team prevent damage while simplifying rough-in. With these fire-rated outlet boxes, they no longer have to cut the stub-outs after testing. Instead, they can install water supply valves during the rough-in phase, test and then use the included debris cover to protect the valve during other phases of construction. Once the finishing work like drywall and tiling is complete, they simply remove the cover and replace it with an escutcheon or trim plate.
Read more: Why You Should Be Using Outlet Boxes During Plumbing Rough-In
“It looks like it's going to be beneficial to use these in the long run because there will be less damage in the building,” Coleman said.
About Miller Mechanical
Miller Mechanical Contractors & Engineers, Inc. specializes in providing water, waste and gas systems solutions for multifamily and mixed-use new construction projects. Some of their previous work has included everything from apartments and houses to parking deck structures, student housing and retirement communities. In addition to TestRite and HoldRite fixture boxes, Miller Mechanical has also taken advantage of HoldRite pipe supports, water heater accessories and fixture boxes, HydroFlame firestop solutions and SharkBite PEX-b.