There is far more to plumbing than people think. And the intricate precision of plumbing work is more complex without the proper training, experience and know how. Though many plumbing related projects are better suited for the experts, there are a few tasks that even the most beginner and untrained homeowner can do around the house. M & C Orsack Plumbing Contractor would like to take the opportunity to help you get your DIY plumbing toolbox together and share a couple of examples of plumbing projects that you can do for yourself.
List of Essential Plumbing Tools & Their Uses
Plumbing projects take few tools that are designed specifically for the hardware involved.
1) Basin Wrench. A basin wrench has an adjustable-angled head specifically designed to help you loosen nuts and bolts from below and is excellent for replacing or fixing faucets.
2) Drain Snake. The drain snake is a smaller less complex form of what professional plumbers use can help clear away clogs as long as they are not too deep. They come in multiple sizes and assortment of power-supplies.
3) Pipe or Plumber’s Wrench. Pipe wrench has teeth that are designed to form and move with the direction of the pipe, and can be set to handle the width of most pipes. This wrench is a simple must for any plumbing toolbox.
4) Plumber’s Putty. This plumbing putty is engineered for sealing joints it can dry quickly and in sealed containers it has the ability of an extended shelf life for periodic use.
5) Seat Wrench. A seat wrench is ideal to handle bath tub or sink faucets.
6) Teflon Tape. This tape is commonly used in plumbing work to fix leaks around fixtures where the thread into their counterparts is not quite as snug.
7) Water Meter Key. Water meter key aids you in turning off and on the water supply valve to your home. The water meter key should be easily obtained as it will turn off the water in times of emergency situations.
DIY Plumbing Repair & Replacement Projects
Below are a few small projects to get you started with some easy DIY plumbing projects around the house.
Showerhead replacement.
Replacing the showerhead is one of the simplest jobs you can do.
1. Unscrew the showerhead counter-clockwise; usually all it takes is a little muscle and a good grip. However, if it screwed on tightly, use your pipe wrench.
2. Wind Teflon tape around the threaded end a couple of times to ensure a snug fit.
3. Screw on the new showerhead hand tight, test to make sure there is no dripping, if there is; make adjustments.
Clearing a bath tub drain clog.
1. Unscrew the drainage plate; the plate covering the emergency drain just above the normal drain.
2. Send your drain snake down. Be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions on the particular type you went with.
3. Reinstall your drainage plate once the obstruction is cleared.
Professional Residential Plumber & Commercial Plumbing Contractor Services in Spring, The Woodlands, Magnolia, Montgomery & Conroe Texas
For more serious plumbing problems, contact M & C Orsack Plumbing Contractor and let our experts assist you in getting your plumbing operating at peak performance!