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Installing a Shower Fixture

Bob Vila meets with Carlos Leuchtmann from Blue Ridge Plumbing, who shows Bob the shower pan and layout of the new fixtures. Leuchtmann explains that the drain is off center due to structural supports in the floor that cannot be moved. Leuchtmann also points out the anti-scald restrictor and the dual-flow Moen shower fixture, which allows for either an overhead rain-type shower or a body spa with four wall sprayers. Leuchtmann shows Bob a tool for plumbers and electricians called the “stud popper”. The device makes a perfect hole in steel framing for running pipes or electrical wire. Once punched, the stud is fitted with a “pipe tight” that provides a feed for the pipes or wires and keeps them from touching the metal studs. Carlos also explains how sanding the pipe and adding flux creates a bonding surface for the solder to adhere to when sweating pipe. More information