2 answers
Peyton
Student
Roseau, Minnesota
3
Questions
Asked
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How do you stay updated with plumbing codes? Do you need a big shop for plumbing?
I'm a senior in high school still deciding if i should be a plumber or a diesel mechanic.
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2 answers
James McCollum
Consulting Engineer, Plumbing and Fire Suppression
2
Answers
Hopewell, Virginia
Updated
James’s Answer
Peyton,
Methods of staying updated with plumbing codes can vary some with locality, but generally most states in the US have adopted the International Construction Codes either directly or with modifications. These codes can be accessed free of charge at http://www.iccsafe.org/, including the state modified versions. The real trick however is understanding the codes and their application. A code commentary (also available for purchase on this site) is a big help for this.
Big shop for plumbing? The very short and initial answer is no. However, as business grows and volume of work increases, having storage space for bulk materials purchase and acquired tools storage becomes inevitable. You’ll know when that time comes.
Another consideration is tradesman certification from the authority having jurisdiction (state government in most instances). Most localities require a permit to do a plumbing job other than general repairs or replacements in kind, and permits are generally not sold to persons who are not certified in the specific trade (Plumbing) by the state.
I wish you the best in your endeavors. I’ve made a good life in the plumbing industry. It’s hard work but can be very rewarding, and once you have the skills, experience and certifications you will be in reasonably high demand wherever you may choose to go.
Methods of staying updated with plumbing codes can vary some with locality, but generally most states in the US have adopted the International Construction Codes either directly or with modifications. These codes can be accessed free of charge at http://www.iccsafe.org/, including the state modified versions. The real trick however is understanding the codes and their application. A code commentary (also available for purchase on this site) is a big help for this.
Big shop for plumbing? The very short and initial answer is no. However, as business grows and volume of work increases, having storage space for bulk materials purchase and acquired tools storage becomes inevitable. You’ll know when that time comes.
Another consideration is tradesman certification from the authority having jurisdiction (state government in most instances). Most localities require a permit to do a plumbing job other than general repairs or replacements in kind, and permits are generally not sold to persons who are not certified in the specific trade (Plumbing) by the state.
I wish you the best in your endeavors. I’ve made a good life in the plumbing industry. It’s hard work but can be very rewarding, and once you have the skills, experience and certifications you will be in reasonably high demand wherever you may choose to go.
Oleg Kushnerov
Construction Project Manager
20
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Oleg’s Answer
Both professions have a strong future and won't be easily replaced by AI. You'll need to keep learning and updating your skills. Diesel engines today are different from those 40 years ago, just as plumbing has evolved from soldering copper pipes to using compression tools for flexible pipes.
You don't need a big shop if there's a hardware store nearby, as you can buy supplies as needed for each job.
To stay busy, it's helpful to learn related skills. For example, a diesel mechanic might also learn about gas engines, and a plumber might learn HVAC skills.
You don't need a big shop if there's a hardware store nearby, as you can buy supplies as needed for each job.
To stay busy, it's helpful to learn related skills. For example, a diesel mechanic might also learn about gas engines, and a plumber might learn HVAC skills.