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Pipe Hanger Spacing: How Far Apart, By Pipe Type and Size

Maximum hanger spacing by pipe material and size, based on IPC Table 308.5, plus standard clevis hanger rod-size pairings.

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Pipe Hangers

Hanger spacing isn’t a matter of preference, it’s set by code, and it varies by pipe material and diameter. The table below reflects the International Plumbing Code (IPC) Table 308.5 maximum spacing requirements. Always verify against the code edition adopted by your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), some jurisdictions run the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) instead, which has its own similar but not identical table, and local amendments are common.

Maximum hanger spacing (IPC Table 308.5)

Piping material	Max. horizontal spacing	Max. vertical spacing
Cast-iron pipe	5 ft¹	15 ft
Copper or copper-alloy pipe	12 ft	10 ft
Copper or copper-alloy tubing, 1¼” and smaller	6 ft	10 ft
Copper or copper-alloy tubing, 1½” and larger	10 ft	10 ft
Steel pipe	12 ft	15 ft
PVC pipe	4 ft	10 ft
CPVC pipe or tubing, 1” and smaller	3 ft	10 ft
CPVC pipe or tubing, 1¼” and larger	4 ft	10 ft
ABS pipe	4 ft	10 ft
PEX tubing	32 in	10 ft

¹ Increases to 10 ft where 10-foot lengths of cast-iron pipe are installed.

The distinction that trips people up: pipe vs. tubing

Copper “pipe” (rigid, Type K/L/M sold in straight lengths) and copper “tubing” are spaced differently in the table above, pipe is spaced wider (12 ft horizontal) than smaller-diameter tubing (6 ft horizontal for 1¼” and under). If you’re building a hanger schedule, confirm which one you’re actually running before applying a spacing number.

Reference drawing

Clevis hangers are the standard hanger style behind the rod-size pairing above.

Clevis hanger rod-size pairing (standard manufacturer practice)

Beyond spacing, the rod supporting the hanger has to be sized to the pipe it’s carrying. This is standard manufacturer guidance, not a code table, always confirm against your specific hanger’s published load rating for anything load-critical:

Pipe size	Standard rod size
1/2” – 2”	3/8”
2-1/2” – 3”	1/2”
4” – 5”	5/8”
6” – 8”	3/4”

Contractor FAQ

Does this table apply to every jurisdiction?

It reflects IPC Table 308.5. If your area runs UPC or a locally amended code, confirm the exact figures with your AHJ before finalizing a hanger schedule, the numbers are close across codes but not always identical.

Why is cast-iron spacing so much tighter than steel or copper?

Cast-iron pipe is heavier per foot and more brittle under bending stress than steel or copper, so code requires closer support to limit sag and joint stress.

What’s the minimum order on hangers?

Clevis hangers, riser clamps, and the rest of the pipe-hanger line ship wholesale, minimum order is 50 pieces. Request specs & pricing and we’ll confirm counts for your size.