Know Your Materials: Navigating Wisconsin Plumbing Code SPS 384

In this episode of Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing, host Ryan Boggs, Master Plumber and prefab foreman, shares how his team’s innovation in kitting DWV systems has drastically improved efficiency on the company’s largest plumbing project to date. By collaborating across trades, they’ve shortened shower rough-in times and improved workflow — all while emphasizing the importance of continual learning and adaptation in the plumbing trade.

Ryan then breaks down Wisconsin Plumbing Code SPS 384, the section governing plumbing materials and products, explaining why understanding product listings, labeling, and material limitations is critical for compliance, performance, and professional integrity.

From PVC vs. CPVC to lead-free brass and approved transition fittings, Ryan unpacks some of the oddities and gray areas that trip up even experienced installers — and reminds listeners that knowing what’s approved and installed per its listing is the hallmark of a true craftsman.

To close, Ryan teases next week’s episode featuring Aaron Kilburg from NIBCO, who will share insights from the manufacturer’s perspective on product design, testing, and maintaining compliance with evolving plumbing codes.

Whether you’re an apprentice, journeyman, or master plumber, this episode will sharpen your understanding of the materials that keep Wisconsin’s plumbing systems running safely and efficiently.

Key Topics:

• Prefabrication efficiency through DWV kitting and trade collaboration
• The importance of continual learning as a licensed professional
• Wisconsin Plumbing Code SPS 384 – Plumbing Products and Materials
• Material listings, third-party certification, and labeling requirements
• Common compliance issues: PVC vs. CPVC, solvent cements, transition fittings
• The installer’s responsibility for code-compliant material selection
• Teaser: Interview with Aaron Kilburg (NIBCO) – coming next episode

References & Resources:

1. Wisconsin Administrative Code, Chapter SPS 384 – Plumbing Products and Materials.
   Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).
   https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/plumbing/384
   
   
2. ASME, ASTM, ANSI, and NSF Standards referenced in SPS 384.10(2).
   • ASTM D2564 – Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for PVC Plastic Pipe and Fittings
   • ASTM F493 – Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for CPVC Plastic Pipe and Fittings
   • NSF/ANSI 61 – Drinking Water System Components – Health Effects
   • NSF/ANSI 372 – Lead Content Reduction Standard
3. Wisconsin DSPS Plumbing Products Search Portal – to verify product approval and listing status.
   https://esla.wi.gov/apex/DSPS_ProductSearch
   
   
4. Federal Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act (2014 Amendment to SDWA).
   U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
   https://www.epa.gov/dwstandardsregulations/lead-free-pipes-fittings-fixtures-solder-and-flux
   
   
5. ASSE 1061 – Performance Requirements for Push-Fit Fittings.
   American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE).
   https://www.asse-plumbing.org/standards/product/1061