Every homeowner feels accomplished anytime they’re able to handle home repairs effectively to keep the home running smoothly. This feeling of accomplishment and the thought of saving money through DIY repairs can sometimes push homeowners to take on complex fixes like plumbing, leading to even more complex problems.
If you’ve encountered plumbing problems recently, you shouldn’t rush into fixing them yourself just yet. Here are four common household plumbing mistakes homeowners make that you should learn about and avoid in your next plumbing project.
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Attempting DIY for Complex Issues
While you may already have a few successful DIY plumbing projects under your belt, some might prove more challenging than others. When you opt for DIY, chances are high that you may not effectively solve the problem as a professional would. Professionals understand the concept of plumbing material comparison when choosing the right material for your project.
They also have experience solving similar problems, making it easier for them to handle them much more effectively than you would.
Next time you face a plumbing issue that makes you question your DIY plumbing skills, it could be a sign you need to consult the experts before proceeding.
Ignoring Small Leaks
Many homeowners wait until leaks are in their advanced stages to seek professional help. Ignoring minor leaks just because the damage seems harmless can be the start of major problems over time. After some time, the small leaks can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems.
The water can also seep into building materials, weakening floors, wooden structures, and ceilings over time. Addressing leaks immediately after you spot them can save you money you could have lost in expensive repairs and health issues associated with the water damage.
Over-Tightening Faucets and Pipes
It may look like the best solution for leaking faucets or pipes, but over-tightening them might cause unexpected damage immediately or after some time. Many DIYers will tighten their plumbing fixtures as much as possible in a bid to totally prevent leaks. However, over-tightening often causes cracks in faucets and pipes, leading to the very leaks they’re trying to prevent.
When tightening your pipes and faucets, use a wrench to snugly tighten the connections without applying excessive force. This way, you can prevent damage to your plumbing system during the repair and save on repair costs in the long run.
Using Off-Brand Fixtures
Every homeowner wants to save money on each DIY plumbing project they complete, and this sometimes means compromising material quality to fit budgetary needs. While it may seem cost-effective at first, buying off-brand fixtures can be expensive in the long run, as you would have to redo the repairs every time the low-quality fixtures break.
You shouldn’t just rush to buy anything you get on the internet that seems good and fitting for your project. Sticking to the brands you know and trust can save you money and time you may lose pursuing off-brand products that don’t match the minimum quality threshold.
By avoiding these four main plumbing mistakes, you can significantly improve your chances of completing successful plumbing repair projects at home. In case you feel challenged at some point in the process, it’s important to stop and call a professional to proceed with the project.
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