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Do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement tasks can be extraordinarily gratifying. They’re an excellent opportunity to get to know your home better and even save money by avoiding professional fees. However, when it comes to plumbing, mistakes can be pricey and possibly hazardous. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 plumbing mistakes every homeowner should avoid.
Perhaps the most common error novices make when starting a plumbing project is forgetting to turn the water off. Working with an active water line can result in floods and water damage, potentially costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repair fees. Know where your home’s main water shut off valve is located and ensure to turn it off before starting any plumbing work.
While using commercial drain cleaners can sometimes be a quick fix for clogged pipes, over-reliance on such products can lead to serious problems. Many of these cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can eat away at your pipes over time, resulting in leaks and water damage. It’s better to rely on solid unclogging methods and regular pipe maintenance to prevent blockages in the first place.
It’s imperative to use the appropriate tools for your project. Using mismatched or inappropriate tools can quickly cause pipe or fixture damage, making a relatively simple job much more complicated. Take the time to research which tools you’ll need and how to use them properly before you start the task.
If you’re going to repair or replace a plumbing component, always have additional parts on hand. You never know when you might accidentally break a crucial element in the process, and running to the hardware store in the middle of a project is the last thing you want to do.
Many DIY plumbers do not use thread sealing tape correctly, which can result in leaks. Remember to wrap the tape against the direction of the thread, and always use enough to create a proper seal. Moreover, be careful not to overtighten fittings and connections as this could result in damaging the threads.
Every municipality has building regulations that homeowners must follow. These codes are in place to ensure that construction and repair work adheres to safety standards. Failing to meet these codes for DIY plumbing projects may lead to hefty fines and even force you to redo the entire project. Therefore, it’s essential to research and understand local building codes before beginning any plumbing project.
Poor or incorrect drain venting can lead to a whole host of problems such as slow drainage, gurgling sounds, and even sewer gases in your home. It is important to note that every fixture drain must have a vent to allow the entry of air for proper drainage.
Your toilet is not a garbage can. Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper can lead to substantial blockages and sewer backups. Avoid flushing items such as baby wipes, cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products, or floss down your toilet.
Little drips can signify big problems down the line— from increased water bills to potential structural damage. Never ignore a leak, no matter how small it seems. Remember that even a minor leak can lose up to 20 gallons of water per day, and the longer it’s left unattended, the more damage it could do.
Remember, there’s no shame in calling for professional help. While you might be able to handle many simple plumbing tasks, some jobs require the expertise and tools that only a trained plumber can provide. Ignoring this and trying to handle everything yourself could lead to increased costs and potential damage.
In conclusion, the key to successful DIY plumbing is knowledge and preparation. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can tackle your home plumbing projects with confidence, minimizing potential damage and saving money along the way.
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