What does the term 'creep' refer to in plumbing contexts?

In plumbing contexts, 'creep' refers to the slow and gradual movement or deformation of materials under sustained load or pressure. This phenomenon often occurs in piping systems, particularly when plastic or other flexible materials are used. Over time, these materials may gradually elongate or shift from their original positions due to internal pressures, temperature changes, or prolonged stress.

Understanding creep is crucial for plumbers as it can impact the integrity of joints and connections, potentially leading to leaks or failures in the system if not properly accounted for during installation and support of the piping. Therefore, recognizing that creep describes the slow movement of materials helps in designing and managing plumbing systems effectively to prevent future issues.