Key Considerations when Specifying Commercial Plumbing Systems

Growing demand for commercial projects has led to further scrutiny on all building services, with a drive for faster, more efficient installations with assured, long-lasting performance. Here we explore the implications for plumbing system specification.

12.08.2025

For the ever-evolving world of commercial plumbing, efficiency and reliability are paramount and all aspects of the pipework system must be considered and evaluated to achieve this. Importantly, to ensure best possible performance and installation practice this includes reducing or excluding all potential weak points from the plant room to the tap.

Of these potential weak points, pipe connections should come under the most scrutiny. Though extremely simple in design, the O-ring’s ability to create a leak-proof seal between pipes and other components can be impaired under the more dynamic workloads associated with commercial and multi-residential buildings. The exposure to high temperatures, high compression and other stresses results in a loss of elasticity and the inability to return to its original shape making it unable to seal properly.

Aside from the practical drawbacks associated with repairing compromised pipework, potential failures may also lead to reputational damage for plumbers, contractors and installers. Given these risks, it is advisable that project stakeholders look at alternative solutions wherever possible.

Industry shift

This rethink of long-accepted installation and specification practices has led to greater scrutiny of pipework material types. Where previously copper pipework was selected as standard for plumbing systems on commercial and multi-residential projects, increased construction demand has shifted industry thinking. With the new government announcing plans to construct 1.5 million homes and overhaul planning rules to accelerate infrastructure projects, the need for fit-and-forget, high-performance pipework is greater than ever.[1]

Consequently, alternative solutions that reduce the number of potential weak points in plumbing systems have grown in popularity. Made from polymer, these types of pipework use the pipe as the sealant, meaning any installation can withstand pressure loads immediately, and can be certified as leak-free through simple visual inspection. With the additional benefit of high corrosion resistance properties, and improved flow rates due to no reduction in internal bore through fittings.

PP-R Fiber - corridors pipework 2 - 100006793

Additionally, the pricing volatility associated with traditional pipework materials may make more stable options such as polymer more attractive financially, especially when considering the economies of scale associated with larger projects. Growing use of criteria for building certifications such as BREEAM have also further influenced the material consideration process. Compliance with ecological, social and economic requirements around building lifecycles means commercial project stakeholders must analyse more aspects of a potential system before selection. This opening up of the specification process may make alternative materials more appealing than traditional options such as copper.

Practical Fitting

Alongside system performance, practicality must be a key consideration when selecting plumbing systems for commercial projects. Projected increases in demand for construction projects means quicker and easier installation is a major priority. Lighter materials that are easier to handle on-site have therefore grown in popularity, while heavier and more rigid metal pipework can be perceived as impractical.

The importance of more manoeuvrable, less heavy and easy-to-fit pipework cannot be overlooked in the context of commercial projects. A key benefit of polymer pipework is the use of matching fittings and compression sleeves that can be installed with simple, suitable tools – an obvious practical benefit when working alongside multiple other contractors and teams in cramped construction environments.

This reduction in time spent on-site is also mirrored in the off-site pre-fabrication process. As polymer pipework is cut, assembled and welded in accordance with bespoke specifications, potential disruption and time spent on-site can be reduced further still. Alongside realising time and cost savings, this fabrication process enables more consistent product quality. When taken alongside their end-to-end O-ring-free design, it is clear polymer plumbing systems can provide a stronger guarantee of ongoing performance than those made of traditional materials.

Ready for Risers

A traditional drawback when using polymer plumbing systems in commercial projects has been the lack of larger pipework sizes required for risers and corridors. Given the installation and hygiene strengths of alternative pipe materials, it is unsurprising that contractor and specifier demand for appropriately sized solutions has grown.

In response to this, polymer solutions suppliers such as REHAU have expanded their ranges to include PP-R fiber riser systems available in sizes up to 125mm. Furthermore, the ability to integrate risers into prefabricated structures means building services professionals can better meet an anticipated rise in construction demand expected under the new government.

The development of polymer pipework systems marks a significant advancement in commercial plumbing technology. By providing a complete O-ring-free solution that is hygienic, quick to install, and available in larger sizes, suppliers are addressing key challenges faced by plumbing professionals. Integrated with prefabrication methods, risers and innovative installation technologies, these systems’ reliability and efficiency are readily apparent.

For commercial project stakeholders, the benefits are clear – reduced maintenance, faster installations, and a robust, long-lasting plumbing solution. As the demand for efficient and reliable plumbing systems continues to rise, these innovations will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry.

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