There are so many YouTube videos, and HGTV DIY shows on television that we can all become an expert on something. Unfortunately plumbing is not one of those things. Yes there are some small tasks the average homeowner can tackle on their own, but please follow these tips to avoid these costly DIY plumbing mistakes.
Making Connections Too Tight
You never want to spring a leak, so often times what will happen is that a wrench is used to turn a connection too tightly. When this happens it can cause a rupture, or the fitting to crack, which will then cause a leak – the exact thing that was trying to be avoided in the first place. It might not happen immediately, but it can happen over time. Remember, tighter doesn’t always mean better.
Not Turning the Water Off
Many DIY’ers are eager little beavers! So eager in fact that they sometimes forget to turn off the water supply to their project! Please remember to turn off either the main water supply, or the water supply to the local unit you’re trying to repair. This can cause a major leak, or at least get you very wet if you don’t!
Connecting Different Types of Pipes
The typical homeowner isn’t as well versed in the different pipe types as a professional plumber. There are several different types of pipes that could be in your home. You want to stick to the same type. Meaning don’t mix a copper pipe with a galvanized metal, when mixed together, they will corrode, causing a leak.
Cutting Corners
Doing plumbing work on your own could lead you to believe you’re saving money, but in the long run it could end up costing you more. Depending on the type of work you’re doing, it could require a permit. By failing to have a permit, you could devalue your home should you turn around and try to sell it later. You might even have to tear apart your hard work!
It always pays to have a professional plumber handle the tough jobs to help you avoid costly DIY plumbing mistakes. Wyman Plumbing is here to help, we’ve been trusted in Bradenton and surrounding cities for over 95 years! Give us a call at 941-755-1595, or reach out to us online, we’d love to be your plumber!