DIY Plumbing Basics

Who hasn't had a leaky faucet or clogged drain at some point? While it may be easy to pick up a phone and call a plumber for small repair jobs, you'll pay for the service since most charge by the hour. So next time you have a plumbing issue why not see if you can repair it yourself first.

Basic Plumbing Supplies

You'll need to have the right tools for DIY plumbing jobs. For instance if you're removing a faucet from a sink, you'll need a basin wrench which will allow you to reach into the narrow space where the fixture is attached. For many plumbing jobs you'll also need an adjustable or crescent wrench, which can help you handle threaded fittings.

Get a Grip

A pipe wrench can help you get a good grip on pipes or pipe fittings. It can also help you take the cap off the main septic cleanout. For most plumping jobs involving copper or PVC pipes you won't use a pipe wrench, but you will use it on larger steel or iron pipes. Other plumbing supplies include pliers. Having different sizes can allow you to adjust nuts and fittings as well as hold pipes and fittings while soldering. Pliers can damage fixtures so you may want to buy smooth sleeves that fit over them.

If you're set on taking on DIY plumbing projects but can't afford to buy a lot of tools, consider renting what you don't have. Make sure you have all the plumbing supplies you need before you start disconnecting pipes. And hire a pro if the job seems too big for a DIY project.