The minimum diameter of a masonry sleeve for piping should be how much greater than the pipe size?

The correct answer indicates that the minimum diameter of a masonry sleeve for piping should be equal to the size of the pipe itself. This ensures that there is just enough space for the pipe to pass through the sleeve without being overly tight, which could lead to installation issues, damage to the piping, or difficulties with maintenance and future inspections.

Using a sleeve that is simply equal to the pipe size allows for adequate support and protection while minimizing unnecessary void space that might compromise the structural integrity or insulation of the sleeve. It also aligns with common practices in plumbing and construction where the sleeve is designed specifically to accommodate the dimensions of the pipe it encases.

In scenarios where a greater distance is recommended, such as using a larger sleeve, it is generally for specific cases or standards that may apply to certain types of installations, materials, or conditions, which would not apply broadly to all plumbing scenarios.