The homeownership journey is often filled with many delightful experiences. Over the years, you may start a project to enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen or to improve the layouts of your living room. Other than these, you may think about various plumbing projects that you need to tackle at home.
If you are confident enough with your plumbing skills, then go ahead and start on that project! Before you proceed, however, there are a few essential tips to consider, especially regarding what you can and cannot during when handling your plumbing systems.
What To Do:
When it comes to DIY plumbing, you need to do it smartly so that you won’t be greeted with costly repairs. Here is a list of the things that you should do:
- Get yourself informed: Before you take out your tools, it is important that you check your local building and plumbing codes regarding any projects that you want to do. Although you may know what you are doing, you wouldn’t want to get into trouble with the law in the process, right? If it’s necessary, be sure to option a permit first.
- Turn off the water supply: Your project will involve working around the plumbing systems of your home. Before you begin, make sure to turn off the water supply first so that you won’t risk experiencing and burst pipes.
- Use protective gear: Any plumbing work will require you to use protective gear over your body and your head, and especially your eyes. You also need to be in proper work gloves for hand protection. Your hands will likely come into contact with many materials and chemicals, and your gloves will prevent you from sustaining any injuries. Don’t forget to put on your face mask to protect your lungs from harmful gasses or contaminants as well.
- Be careful with power tools: When you’re using power tools, be sure to use it carefully and follow recommendations that have been prepared by the manufacturer. For instance, if you will use a drill, make sure the drill bit will not bind. Additionally, make sure to wear a heat shield when working with a soldering torch.
- Understand product labels: For chemicals and machines that you may need to use for your DIY plumbing, make sure that the product does not contain any harmful materials that can spoil your systems or harm your health.
What NOT To Do:
If you are not well-versed in the plumbing systems of your home, be sure to follow this list of things that you should not do:
- Forgo building codes: Building and plumbing codes are not set up for no reason. They are there to protect you, your family members, and the public.
- Use tools and equipment without knowledge: If you’re not confident in using a tool or equipment, it’s best to leave it to the experts. Using the wrong tools for the wrong works can lead to costly repairs.
- Cut without focusing: Before you cut or drill into a wall, keep in mind that there could be electrical wirings behind that could be dangerous when you cut through them.
Conclusion
Undertaking various projects at home can be a fun experience. Nevertheless, when it comes to plumbing works, it’s important to remember the dos and don’ts before you tackle a job by yourself. If you do not have the knowledge and skills to perform it efficiently, it’s best to leave it to a professional plumber instead.
If you are looking for educational information and tips and tricks about plumbing projects, read our online blog at Plumber Charlotte NC today!
