While it may seem enticing to handle all your own plumbing projects, many DIYers have fallen victim to some common mistakes. Oftentimes, homeowners are unaware of these issues until it’s too late when they find out about an expensive repair down the line.
To help you avoid this mistake and solve your plumbing woes in an efficient manner, here’s a look at some of the most common mistakes made by DIY plumbers – and how you can effectively avoid them.
It’s best to leave complex work to professionals. If you live in the Chicago, Illinois area and you’re looking for someone to work on your plumbing, check out https://jblantonplumbing.com/residential-plumbing/.
Table of Contents
1. Not shutting off the water supply when working on plumbing
One of the most critical mistakes that DIY plumbers make is not shutting off the water supply before attempting to do any plumbing work. If you’re working on a sink or toilet and forget to shut off the main valve, you could end up with unexpected flooding in your home and costly water damage.
To avoid this mistake, always remember to turn off the water supply at the main valve before you start any plumbing project.
2. Not using the right tools for the job
DIY plumbers can make the mistake of not using the right tools for the job. Different plumbing projects require different tools, so it’s important to read up on what each project needs before you start.
For instance, if you’re working on a leaky faucet, you’ll need a wrench and pliers to loosen the nut, a screwdriver to unscrew the handle, and an adjustable wrench in order to replace the washer. Failing to use the right tools can often lead to further damage and costly repairs down the line.
Make sure you research what type of tools you’ll need for the job, and make sure you have them on hand before starting.
3. Trying to fix complex plumbing problems yourself
Another common mistake made by DIY plumbers is attempting to fix complex plumbing problems on their own. Most plumbing projects are relatively simple, but more complicated issues like broken pipes or a sewage line back-up should be left up to the professionals.
Attempting to tackle these problems without the right experience and knowledge can often result in further damage and costly repairs. It’s best to assess your plumbing issue before attempting to fix it yourself. If the project looks too complex or is beyond your skill level, contact a professional plumber who can help you out.
DIY plumbing projects can be rewarding and cost-effective, but they can also be dangerous and costly if not done correctly.
4. Ignoring warning signs that there is a problem with your plumbing
Oftentimes, small problems can turn into big, expensive issues if left unchecked for too long. Warning signs of plumbing issues include low water pressure, constant dripping from faucets or pipes, and discolored water coming from taps.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to address the issue as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the situation gets worse and requires more complex repairs – investigate what could be causing the problem and take action accordingly. Ignoring warning signs can lead to costly problems in the future, so it’s important to be proactive and address the issue right away.
5. Not cleaning up after yourself
Not only can not properly cleaning up their mess after a plumbing project leave your home looking unkempt, but it can also lead to clogged drains and further damage down the line.
After every plumbing project, make sure you clear away any debris, scraps, and tools you used. And of course, don’t forget to turn the water back on when you’re done. Doing this simple step will help ensure that your plumbing project is a success – and prevent costly repairs down the line.
6. Not calling a professional when you need help
The last mistake DIY plumbers make is not calling a professional when they need help. While basic plumbing projects are relatively easy to tackle on your own, more complicated issues should be left up to the professionals.
Don’t hesitate to call a professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the project or feel that it is too complex for you to handle. Hiring a professional will save you time, effort, and money in the long run – and it may even prevent further damage if done correctly.
Conclusion
To sum up, DIY plumbing projects can be rewarding and cost-effective – however, they should never be taken lightly. Not using the right tools, trying to fix complex problems on your own, ignoring warning signs of an issue, not cleaning up after yourself, and failing to call a professional when needed are all common mistakes made by DIY plumbers.
It’s important to be aware of these mistakes and take the necessary steps to avoid them in order to ensure a successful plumbing project.
