Corzan CPVC for Retail | Corzan® CPVC FAQs

Piping in the retail industry needs complete, behind-the-scenes success. Retailers depend on their piping system to work as expected to keep operations running smoothly and merchandise safe from leaks. Reliability, fast installation and low upkeep has drawn the retail industry to plastic piping like Corzan® CPVC. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about CPVC in this industry. If you have additional questions or would like more information, please contact us to be connected with one of our piping material experts.

1. What piping materials offer fast installation for retail buildouts?

Retail buildouts can speed installation by choosing a piping material that requires fewer expert methods and laborers. A high-quality plastic piping such as Corzan CPVC can significantly reduce installation times due to its light weight, accessible cutting methods and simpler solvent welding process that requires no hot work or permits. Installation costs may be reduced by up to 50% by using Corzan CPVC over copper, with the additional benefit of reduced jobsite theft risks associated with high scrap-value copper.

2. How does CPVC reduce maintenance in high-traffic retail facilities?

CPVC’s low lifetime maintenance needs offer a significant benefit to high-traffic facilities like retail stores. CPVC’s inherent corrosion resistance and smooth inside diameter eliminates the need for corrosion monitoring and replacement associated with metal piping. A high-quality CPVC like Corzan CPVC remains reliable at the higher temperatures that may be used for thermal disinfection.

3. Which piping systems support mixed-use retail tenant requirements?

Mixed-use buildings, which combine retail facilities with offices, condos or apartments, must meet multiple requirements within one piping system. This usually includes potable water, HVAC and other auxiliary systems. Specifying Corzan CPVC can simplify and speed installations due to its weight and joining methods but also because Corzan CPVC is designed to transition easily between other approved systems.

4. Is CPVC approved for potable water in commercial retail facilities?

Corzan® CPVC is fully approved per NSF/ANSI 61 for potable water safety. It is also plenum-rated for greater aesthetic flexibility in retail spaces.

5. Can CPVC reduce renovation downtime for retail expansions?

Specifying CPVC is an effective way to reduce downtime and minimize interruptions during retail expansions. The material is faster to tie in or cut in due to its flexible joining methods, such as solvent welding and mechanical couplings, and produces less mess than metal cutting. Corzan CPVC requires no brazing or other hot work, which eliminates the need for safety shutdowns and for skilled laborer availability.

6. Can CPVC be used in open-plenum retail designs, and does it meet flame and smoke requirements?

Corzan CPVC is plenum-rated, listed by ICC-ES under PMG 1264. Tested in accordance with UL 723/ASTM E84, Corzan CPVC meets the 25/50 flame spread/smoked developed requirements of the IMC and UMC and has a flame spread index of 0 when filled with water.