What is the minimum thickness of a nail plate used to protect pipe in a wall?

The minimum thickness of a nail plate used to protect pipes within a wall is specified to ensure that the plate will effectively prevent accidental puncture or damage to the pipes from fasteners such as nails or screws. A nail plate with a thickness of 16 gauge is widely recognized as providing adequate protection while being strong enough to withstand impact from typical construction activities.

Using a thicker nail plate aids in ensuring durability and minimizes the risk of penetration by construction fasteners, which is critical in maintaining the integrity of plumbing systems. A 16 gauge nail plate balances strength with practicality, as thicker options may not be necessary and could complicate installation. Therefore, this thickness is both an industry standard and a code requirement in many jurisdictions for protecting pipes adequately.