Paint pens are a decent workaround, but I’ve had mixed results—sometimes they fade faster than I’d like, especially if there’s a lot of condensation. Honestly, I still lean toward the old-school tape and marker combo. It’s not fancy, but at least I know what I’m looking at when I come back months later. Maybe there’s no perfect solution for damp basements...
Tape and marker is still my go-to, too. I’ve tried paint pens, but like you said, they just don’t hold up in damp spots—especially if you get any drips or condensation running down the pipes. One thing that’s helped me is using that heavy-duty electrical tape and a permanent marker, then covering the label with clear packing tape. It’s not pretty, but it keeps the writing readable for ages. Just gotta make sure everything’s dry before you stick it on, or it’ll peel right off... Learned that the hard way.
I’ve tried the clear packing tape trick too, and it does help the labels last longer, especially in those crawlspaces where nothing stays dry. One thing I’ve started doing is jotting down a quick map or diagram of the plumbing runs and taping it inside the utility closet. That way, if the labels get trashed or fall off, I’ve still got a backup. Not perfect, but it’s saved me a few headaches when tenants call about leaks and I can’t remember which shutoff is which...
I hear you on the labels—mine always seem to peel off right when I need them most. The map idea is solid, though I’ll admit my “artistic” skills make those diagrams look like a toddler’s treasure map. Ever tried snapping pics of the shutoffs and pipes with your phone? I started doing that after crawling out of a particularly nasty crawlspace covered in cobwebs... figured if I’m gonna suffer, might as well have a photo to show for it. Curious if anyone’s found a way to keep those maps updated when things get changed around?
Ever tried snapping pics of the shutoffs and pipes with your phone? I started doing that after crawling out of a particularly nasty crawlspace covered in cobwebs... figured if I’m gonna suffer, might as well have a photo to show for it.
I’ve done the same thing—photos are a lifesaver, especially when you’re trying to remember which valve does what after a few months. I keep a folder on my phone labeled “House Stuff” just for this reason. As for keeping maps updated, I print out a fresh copy every time I make a change, then stick it in a plastic sleeve near the main shutoff. Not the prettiest system, but at least it’s dry and legible. I’m always a bit paranoid about missing something important, so I double-check every few months. It’s not perfect, but it beats crawling around in the dark guessing which pipe is which...
