Protection for Exposed Outside Pipe?

4/22/2019

A dry manual standpipe is being routed as a retrofit on the outside of a building. The dry standpipe will have short runs on top of the existing flat roof based on the layout and existing systems within the building.

What is the most prudent way to protect this pipe?

I'm concerned about direct exposure to the sun and rain. At a minimum we will have a couple coats of epoxy paint over primer, but I suspect that even the paint will wear down and required new coats at some point in the future.

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8 Comments

Mike

4/22/2019 10:07:51 am

Galvanized pipe is good.

4/22/2019 10:16:21 am

I would recommend galv, but I have seen the exact same thing you are describing on a system about 50-80 years old with unpainted black pipe. It was rusty but otherwise looked fine. Dry Mountain climate by the way.

PETE

4/22/2019 10:20:06 am

The best way is 316 stainless steel. The molybdenum is known for its superior corrosion resistance. It's expensive, but you said it was a short run.

The 2nd best option is Macropoxy 646 primer and Corothane I Aliphatic finish coat by Sherwin Williams. It might be just as expensive as stainless steel. Check with your local dealer.

Craig

4/23/2019 08:32:11 am

Unless the 316 stainless steel pipe is specifically listed for this service, this type of pipe has not been identified as acceptable for use under Table 4.2.1 in the 2019 edition of the NFPA 14 Standard. Section 4.2.6 provides verbiage to utilize other types of pipe that have been specifically listed for use on standpipe systems.

Dan Wilder

4/22/2019 10:40:23 am

Have the pipe powder coated or use the Bull Moose Reddi-Pipe.

https://www.bullmoosetube.com/products-services/products/sprinkler-pipe/reddi-pipe

Doug

4/22/2019 10:48:31 am

You might look into powder coating the piping. If you dont use pipe wrenches much, the powder coating is durable and stands up well to the elements.

SEN

4/23/2019 02:59:12 am

Use HDPE pipe is beller

Craig V

4/23/2019 08:26:08 am

HDPE pipe is not listed for use in a standpipe system installation. Refer to Table 4.2.1 within the 2019 edition of the NFPA 14 Standard.

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