We’re all for DIY! We love it when homeowners take pride and responsibility for themselves and their systems! The only problem is that sometimes, it feels like “DIY” doesn’t actually stand for “Do it yourself,” but something a lot more sinister… “Disaster,” maybe?
Don’t let yourself fall victim to a DIY mishap! Lifehacker recently posted about some of the most common plumbing mishaps that contractors see amateurs make, regardless of experience level. Here are three common plumbing mistakes rookies make – and how you can tackle them like a seasoned pro:
1.) Scratching a Chrome Finish
Chrome fixtures and faucets are incredibly common in the plumbing world, and they’re incredibly easy to scuff or damage - meaning that your sparkling new sink won’t be so appealing anymore. When you replace or tighten a fixture, the teeth of a standard wrench or set of pliers can easily mark up that nice chrome finish. Instead, try using a washcloth between your tool and the finish. Or, more to the point, use the right tool for the job! In this case, that would be a “strap wrench,” a rubber coil designed to wrap around your chrome elements without leaving a mark.
2.) Deforming Old Pipes
Working with old plumbing, perhaps during a major renovation project? Older pipes can be much more susceptible to wear and tear than their modern counterparts, and applying too much pressure with your wrench or upper body can cause your circular pipes to bend and become oblong. Be careful with your instruments, always make sure you have the right tools for the job, and, if you’re ever in doubt, go with the pros. A few dollars to get the job done right could save you a lot of stress and strain down the line.
3.) Using the Wrong Screws
“Measure twice, cut once” is an old, old piece of craftsmen’s advice, and it applies just as much to DIY-ers as it does to the pros! Where we see many homeowners make a minor error is in their screws: Don’t use a long screw when a short one will do! An incorrect fastener could leave permanent damage on your home – or at least make your plumbing system look like a mess.
Make sure you’re using the right supplies for your job! If you have any doubts, add one screw or nail before installing the rest: If it doesn’t seem to fit right, or if it pokes out of the other side of your wall or floor, you know to go with a different model.
Have any questions about an upcoming DIY project? Looking for service or an estimate? Whatever your plumbing or HVAC needs, Combat Plumbing is here to help! Drop us a line, day or night, to get your next project started on the right foot.
