Commercial / Industrial Services

Commercial plumbing includes a mix of light industrial and commercial businesses, restaurants, retirement homes, apartment buildings, and condominiums, etc. across Simcoe County, Muskoka, and Parry Sound.

Many of the elements – pipes, fittings, and drains – serve the same function. However, the pipes and fittings can be larger for commercial plumbing. The materials used to make the copper or PVC pipes and fittings are also different because they are fire-rated (XFR is a plastic for drains and vent pipes).

Commercial plumbing lines often run much longer distances, in larger buildings, and may include a pump to help move substances to wherever they are needed.

Depending on the nature of the business and the materials used to manufacture the products, process piping may be needed to handle fluids, gas, air, etc. Air, for example, is needed for hydraulic machinery.

Similar to plans for a building, plumbing drawings are required and need approval from the city or municipality before installation. Drawings may also need to be updated for any changes from the original set. When complete, they are called as-built drawings. After installation and before use, inspections and approvals are required for any new plumbing.

Commercial plumbing can be quite complicated because the scale is larger. Depending on the size of the workforce, for example, multiple washroom facilities may be needed. They may also be installed on different floors of the building.

Many light industrial or commercial businesses have flat roofing. They require a system to manage rainwater, drainage to prevent damage to the roof, prevent blockages, and provide protection from freezing temperatures.

A rainwater leader diverts rooftop water through a series of large vertical and horizontal pipes that lead to the ground or a municipal storm drain. It is suggested that heat cables should be installed inside or attached to the outside of the rainwater leaders to prevent freezing.

Roof drains need to be maintained and kept clear of leaves and debris.

Buildings that have large decks on the roof also require a rainwater drainage system.

Businesses in the food industry, such as restaurants, commercial kitchens, etc., use commercial plumbers to install a system to manage cooking fats and grease.

In the auto industry, garages, car washes, etc, also need a system to manage oil and grease. It is installed by commercial plumbers.

All plumbers go through hands-on training, college courses, and apprenticeships, a process that can take several years to complete.

After becoming a licensed plumber, training and certifications are ongoing. Some choose to specialize in service, renovation, residential, or commercial plumbing. All of Plumbtech’s labourers, apprentices, and plumbers/journeymen are fully trained in health and safety and are up-to-date and recertified in up to seven categories when due.

Some also choose to add specialty training and additional certifications.

Backflow prevention and the installation of valves and equipment, testing, and repair, is one example. Grease traps, oil interceptors, installation, and repair are another example. Businesses in the food industry have the option of choosing between two different kinds of commercial grease traps. A smaller model mounted under the sink is known as a floor-mounted grease trap. A larger model of a grease trap can be installed in the ground to facilitate other fixtures.

Businesses outsource maintenance and cleaning of grease traps and oil interceptors. They can be manually cleaned, pumped out, disposed of, and the equipment cleaned by regulated companies.

Maintenance frequency depends on use.

For all your commercial plumbing needs, from purchasing and installing new equipment, fixtures, lines, and drains, as well as any repairs or coordination of overlapping services, call 705-722-7209. Written estimates can be provided for significant projects. A 24-Hour emergency service is also available.

Plumbtech Plumbing serves the greater Barrie area and many parts of Simcoe County from Alliston to Angus and Base Borden to Midland, Penetanguishene, Collingwood, and Wasaga Beach to Muskoka – Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Parry Sound.