tapping into terra cotta

is there a way to tap into terra cotta drains, I have limited space to work with and I don't think I can get a fernco fitting on the pipe due to a supply line in close proximity. is there a way to tap a hole into the top of the line and run a drain off it. I'm worried i'll crack the pipe and create a whole new problem. I was thinking about trying to drill into it.

tile drain lines

that is pretty mean, and I would not attempt that without
a good back up plan....

it will most likely shatter or develope hair line cracks.....

useing a small masonary bit you might get lucky


I guess you are going to attempt to put a saddle on it....

good luck

First, I do not think any code or inspector would permit your intended solution. Even if codes are not an issue, I agree that it would be tough to tap. I had to cut into a terra cotta pipe once and it surprisingly snapped quite nicely with a cast iron pipe cutter. Though, I can just as easily see it crumbling. I have had cast iron shatter instead of snap, so I expect terra cotta could shatter as well. I wish I had a solution for you. Good luck.

pipe

To do it correctly, and that would depend on where the pipe is, what you are connecting to it, and your code, you need a tapping saddle and the 2 part epoxy cement to attach it to the pipe after you carefully make the proper sized hole in the pipe. You have to work slowly and carefully with a heavy pointed chisel, just the chisel no hammer, to make the first hole. Then you can enlarge it to the necessary size fairly easily. It is something you have to learn by doing it, it cannot be learned by reading about it.