I passed the first inspection!

Some people have the project that will never end.  This has felt like the project that will never begin.  After one year of collecting materials, I finally got a permit in March, but then didn't really start the project.  I knew that the first part would be the hardest for me, as I have no experience cutting into floors and plumbing drains.  So I waited, procrastinated, etc.  I finally asked a friend to help me cut into the floor.  Then I waited some more, did some "research" on how to properly plumb a drain, and waited longer...Yes, I am a classic procrastinator.

I cut the main toilet drain!

 Like most procrastinators, I need a deadline.  And I discovered on in the fine print of the building permit.  If I did not start the project within 6 months of the application date, the permit would be void.  Likewise, if I don't finish within 12 months, the permit will be void.  I already paid way to much for a crazy permit, I don't want to pay for another!

So last week I dove in again.  I knew that I wanted to connect the shower drain to the main line, but wasn't sure if there were code issues with doing that.  Just to make sure I was doing everything correctly, I stopped by City Hall and talked to the building inspector.  He said I could do it, but told me that I needed a back-water prevention valve to insure against sewer water backing up through the shower drain.  That cost me $40, but to be honest, I was worried about this issue anyways.  After all, a shower drain in a basement is a virtual floor drain, and backups are nasty, and tend to ruin nice bathrooms!  However, he also told me that since I am running only a 3 foot drain to the main line, I could wet vent the drain and would not have to run vent pipes!  That saved me some money!  I am glad I talked to him!

On Saturday morning, armed with everything I needed, I cut into the main line.  It was do-or-die.  After all, there would be no flushing in our house until it was all glued back together.  I purposefully waited until I had plenty of time, with many hours available to run to the store.  (You don't start this kind of thing at 9 PM)  It took longer than expected, but I got it done.

 You must use a "Y" connection when tying into a drain line!

This afternoon, the building codes inspector stopped by and approved the drain system and told me I can fill my holes, pour concrete, and move onto the rest of the framing, plumbing, and electrical!

Note the cool clean-out access for the backwater valve!