Enhancing Pipe Support with Metal Hanger Straps

Metal hanger straps are indispensable for securely supporting pipes like CTS, IPS, and DWV. Made from galvanized or copper-plated steel, these robust hangers adhere to strict ASTM standards, providing reliable support for pipes. This comprehensive guide explores everything about metal hanger straps – from installation to materials, ensuring your pipes get the sturdy support they need.

Installing Metal Hanger Straps: Step-by-Step Instructions

Properly installing metal hanger straps is key to safely and effectively supporting pipes. Follow these steps:

Prioritizing Safety

Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when working with metal straps to prevent injuries. Take safety precautions throughout the installation process.

Tailoring to Your Project

Customize the strap length to perfectly fit your pipe layout. Measure and cut the hanger to your specific needs for proper alignment and support.

Securing the Strap

Use suitable fasteners like nails or screws to firmly secure the strap to structural elements. Insert fasteners through the strategically placed pilot holes along the strap.

Adapting the Installation

Metal straps allow flexible installations. Loop or double-wrap them around pipes based on weight and layout. Install on the same or opposite sides of joists/studs to suit your project.

Hanger Strap Materials: Engineered for Reliability

Metal hanger straps are thoughtfully engineered using robust materials that provide dependable support:

Durable Galvanized Steel

Straps are typically 24-gauge galvanized steel – strong enough to handle demands of various piping systems. Galvanization resists corrosion.

Compatible With Many Pipe Types

Designed to support diverse pipes: PVC, ABS, galvanized, black iron, cast iron. Suitable for residential, commercial, industrial uses.

Optimal Dimensions

A 3⁄4”+ width gives substantial support. 10’+ length provides ample material for needs. Dimensions optimized for stability and versatility.

Strategic Hole Placement

Alternating 1/4” and 1/2” diameter holes simplify installation and precise fastening at optimal points along the strap.

Rigorously Tested

Extensive testing ensures straps are extremely durable and reliable. Engineered to perform in tough conditions for years of dependable service.

Why Metal Hanger Straps Are an Ideal Choice

Metal straps offer advantages that make them a go-to choice for securing pipes:

Highly Flexible and Maneuverable

Straps bend and flex easily, allowing smooth maneuvering and handling during installations in tight spaces.

Adaptable and Customizable

Straps can be placed in many configurations to accommodate different pipe layouts, weights, and structural elements.

Resists Corrosion and Rust

Galvanized steel construction holds up against moisture, chemicals, and other elements that degrade other fasteners.

Cost-Effective Solution

Inexpensive steel straps provide reliable support at a fraction of the cost of specialty hangers, making them economical.

Easy to Modify and Adjust

Straps can be simply cut, bent, and adapted onsite for changes and customization during installation.

Lightweight Yet Sturdy

Thin profile provides substantial strength to securely support piping without adding unnecessary weight.

Choosing the Right Metal Hanger Strap

With many strap variations available, follow these tips to pick the right one:

Match Pipe Type and Size

Select a strap suitable for your pipe material and diameter. Heavier pipes need wider, thicker straps.

Consider Loading

Determine how much weight the strap must support. For heavier loads, choose a thicker strap.

Analyze Environmental Factors

Assess elements like moisture, chemicals, UV exposure that could degrade the strap over time.

Review Structural Elements

Evaluate what the strap will be anchored to – wood, concrete, steel studs. Optimize fasteners.

Allow for Expansion and Contraction

Pick a length that accommodates pipe expansion/contraction to avoid dangerous stresses.

Include Safety Factor

Size the strap to support more load than anticipated as a safety precaution.

Installing Metal Hanger Straps on Different Structures

Metal straps can be installed on various structural elements using suitable techniques:

Wood Framing

• Use galvanized nails or screws to install straps on wood studs or joists
• Pre-drill pilot holes in wood to prevent cracking/splitting

Concrete Surfaces

• Utilize concrete anchors, expansion bolts, or masonry screws
• Drill proper pilot holes for hardware used

Steel Framing

• Attach straps directly to steel studs using self-tapping metal screws
• Ensure screws are proper length to penetrate stud thickness

Wood Blocking

• Secure horizontal wood blocking between studs/joists to anchor straps
• Provides solid nailing base for enhanced support

Structural Steel

• Welding or drilling bolts offer strongest attachment to steel I-beams/channels
• Use beam clamps as alternative to support smaller pipes

Protecting Metal Hanger Straps from Corrosion

Unprotected steel straps exposed to moisture can corrode over time. Use these methods to prevent corrosion:

Galvanization

• Zinc coating applied during manufacturing resists corrosion
• Provides cost-effective first line of defense

Epoxy Coating

• Added protective epoxy layer improves corrosion resistance
• Ideal for highly corrosive industrial environments

PVC Dip Coating

• Dipping straps in PVC plastic covers all surfaces against moisture
• Best for extremely damp environments like wastewater

Indoor Installation

• Using straps only for indoor plumbing limits corrosion potential
• Avoid direct contact with water and chemicals

Pipe Insulation

• Wrap pipes with insulation to create a barrier between hanger and pipe
• Reduces risk of galvanic corrosion

Routine Inspection

• Periodically inspect straps for any visible corrosion
• Address any compromised sections promptly

Conclusion

From residential plumbing to large-scale industrial piping, metal hanger straps offer an efficient and economical way to provide secure and reliable pipe support. With their durable steel construction, customizable design, and corrosion-resistant materials, these ubiquitous hangers have become a staple across countless piping installations. Whether wrapped around a pipe, anchored between joists, or welded overhead, metal straps deliver the strength and versatility to uphold pipes for the long run. Following the best practices outlined here for selecting, installing, and protecting metal hanger straps will ensure your piping investment gets the robust support system it deserves.