Running a New Supply Line Running new supply lines requires planning in order to divide the job into manageable pieces. Since running a new supply lines requires you to break into your current line, it’s very important to make sure you plan the best and most convenient place to cut into your current service to begin your new line.

Before you begin:
Turn off the water supply and drain the pipes that you are cutting into to install the new lines. Try to make a sketch or plan for the installation and be sure to keep all of your materials and tools nearby.

Follow These Steps

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  • Step One

    Drill riser holes through the stud wall into the basement. The diameter of the hole should be ¼” larger than the diameter of the riser to allow some flexibility when hooking up the supply lines.

  • Step Two

    Install the valve body and make sure that the faucet controls are centered and level. Do a dry assembly to ensure that all of the parts fit together properly. To prevent the heat from soldering from damaging the valve’s internal parts, remove them before you begin soldering. If the valve attaches to a screw-in fitting, solder the first piece of the pipe to the fitting before screwing the fitting to the valve.

  • Step Three

    Ensure the blocking for the tub spout is centered six inches above the top of the tub. Faucets installed more than six inches above the spout need separate blocking. Remember, blocking for showerheads is usually 6-1/2 feet above the floor, but can be adjusted to suit your personal needs.

  • Step Four

    Connect all of the pipes and fittings. Screw any brass fittings to the framing with brass screws to prevent the corrosion that occurs when different types of metals come into contact with each other.

  • Step Five

    Run the supply lines to the risers, and cut pipe lengths. Test-fit each supply line and mark the adjustments on the piping. Take the runs apart and make any necessary changes. Anchor the pipes securely to the joists as you make the runs. Solder in place.

Skill Scale
Time Required
EXPERIENCED: 6 hours
HANDY: 8 hours
NOVICE: 12+ hours
Shopping List:

tools

Electric Drill

Spade Bits

Tape Measure

Carpenter’s Level

Pencil

Hammer

Mapp Torch and Striker

Tubing Cutter

Soldering Kit

Fiberglass Flame Barrier

Screwdriver

Saber Saw

PVC Cutter

Gloves

Safety Glasses

materials

Copper Supply Pipe

Copper Fittings

Integral Stops

Copper Tube Straps

Anti-Vibration Pads

Brass Screws

Faucet Assembly

Shower Tee

Solder

Flux

PVC P-trap

Tub Overflow and Drain Assembly

PVC Primer and Adhesive

Bathtub

2x4 Blocking

1x3 Ledger Strips

Silicone Caulk

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