As a local plumbing contractor, we get a lot of questions about which products are safe for use at home. Even though our customers love us, there are times when people want to try a simple job on their own. We always recommend going with a professional to avoid risks of complicating the existing plumbing problem and making it worst.If you are in the mood to DIY here are some produces we recommend:
- Thread paste. This is a common product used by plumbers because it can fill small voids and seal threaded connections. It can also act like a lubricant when trying to tighten a connection. There are many different types of thread paste on the market so before you buy it you need to make sure that you get the right one for the material you are using it on.
- Plumbers putty. This is a fairly common product for a plumbing contractor to use. Many homeowners also keep it on hand. It is supposed to be used on the underside or bottom of something that will be pushed down. For example a drain in the sink, tub, or shower. When it is used in the place of tape or in the wrong location, a leak could start.
- Caulk. Most people are aware of caulk and use it around the house. The key is to make sure that the right caulk is used in the right place, especially when it comes to plumbing. It should only be used to seal around areas so that water cannot be let in. Some things that should be caulked are sinks, faucets, and tub spouts.
- PTFE Tape. This is also called thread tape and can be used along with thread paste or in place of it. If you use both it will provide additional durability. Just make sure that you don’t use too much because if you do that could cause unnecessary stress and make a crack. That is why we recommend working with a plumbing contractor. Sometimes leaks are caused by the simplest mistake like putting too much pressure or tightening a pipe too far.
- Flux. This should only be used by the professionals or homeowners that are highly trained. You put it on a brass or copper pipe when preparing it to be soldered. Again, better left to the professionals.
- Plumbers grease. If you have to take something apart use plumbers grease. It makes the project much easier and can be put on threads or any moving parts.
Before embarking on your DIY plumbing project, give us a call for an estimate. You may be surprised at how affordable it is to work with a plumbing contractor. The amount of time that you will save by hiring a professional may make it not worth it to attempt to do it yourself. You also have to consider what it will cost if you make a mistake that has to be repaired in an emergency. For professional, reliable, and affordable service you can count on us.
