The Tools Needed To Undertake DIY Plumbing Projects

Home & Garden Blog

There is a reason that the motto of many plumbers is 'have more tools for the job than you need'. It can be very frustrating to start to undertake a DIY plumbing project, only to find out after you have started the job that you don't have the equipment or tools needed to properly finish off the job. This article looks at some of the essential tools you should have in your toolbox before you embark on a DIY plumbing project around the home.

Hacksaw

This inexpensive and versatile tool is used for cutting metal and plastic pipes, screws bolts and other hardware. Maintain the hacksaw by ensuring that the blade is taut as it sits in the frame. Also make sure that you have spare blades in your toolbox.

Plunger

This inexpensive tool is known as a plumber's best friend. It is usually the first thing a plumber will reach for when attempting to clear blockages in the toilet or the sink. It is an indispensable piece of kit.

Propane Torch

This is used for sweating copper pipes; a basic and often used plumbing skill. It is worth purchasing the slightly more expensive self-lighting model, rather than having to continually use another source (such as a match) to ignite the torch.

Pliers

Plumbers usually get the 'tongue and groove' type of pliers, which are essential for gripping, twisting and tightening material during plumbing repairs. It is a good idea to get two different sized sets of pliers.

Wrench

There are two types of wrenches that are essential to have in your toolbox. One is a basin wrench, which is used to loosen or tighten nuts in sinks or faucets. The other type of wrench is a pipe wrench; as the name suggests, these are used to loosen and tighten threaded pipes. You will need two of these pipe wrenches, one to grip and hold and one to turn.

Metal Files

These are ideal for removing burrs after a cut has been made into a metal pipe. Most experienced plumbers have at least two types of file; a long flat file and a round, tapered  file.

Tube Cutter

This ingenious tool will allow you to make clean and accurate cuts into any piping with minimum effort. It resembles a 'C' shape, and is secured around the pipe, then screwed to make the cut. Ideal for use in small or confined areas, where a hacksaw would struggle due to lack of space.

As a person builds up their DIY plumbing experience, more tools can and should be added to their toolbox. For more information, check out companies such as Epg Electrical Plumbing Group Pty Ltd.

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Decorating and Your Home and Garden

Yo! My name is Lisa and I would like to welcome all you guys to my new blog. I was inspired to start this blog because I am tired of visiting people's homes and seeing the same old furniture and the same old designs in use. I used to have boring designs in my home and garden. However, all that changed when my friend Simon came to visit. Simon is a designer and property developer so he has a real eye for bringing out the best in any space. He gave me some top tips and helped me to transform my home and garden.