Bajantes

Bajantes is the plural form of bajante and is used in Iberian Portuguese and Spanish to refer to vertical drainage pipes that carry wastewater or rainwater from upper levels of a building toward the municipal sewer or storm drain network. They can be located inside walls or shafts or run along façades, forming a key part of a building’s drainage system. In practical use, bajantes are commonly categorized as sanitary bajantes, which convey waste from fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and showers, and pluvial bajantes, which carry rainwater collected from roofs and gutters.

The function of bajantes is to provide a gravity-driven path for fluids to reach the appropriate drainage system while preventing backflow and allowing venting to equalize pressure. They connect to horizontal waste or storm lines through fittings and often include cleanouts at intervals to facilitate maintenance. Adequate venting above the fixtures is typically required to prevent siphoning and ensure smooth flow.

Materials and installation vary by region and building age. Modern bajantes are often made of PVC or another plastics, while older constructions may use cast iron, ductile iron, or other metals. Diameters and configurations depend on building size, the number of connected fixtures, and local codes. Regular maintenance includes inspecting for leaks, corrosion, cracks, and blockages, as well as ensuring accessible cleanouts and appropriate support and protection from physical damage.

Regional codes and standards govern sizing, venting, materials, and maintenance requirements for bajantes, and consult local regulations is advised for specific installations.