Yeah, I hear you on the labels. Had a similar thing happen with masking tape—thought it’d be fine, but after a couple months near the boiler, it just turned into this sticky mess. Now I double-check for that heat rating, even if it takes a minute longer. Sometimes I’ll jot down a quick sketch in my notebook too, just in case the label doesn’t survive. It’s not foolproof, but at least there’s something to fall back on if things get messy.
Honestly, I get the whole “double-check for that heat rating” thing, but sometimes those specialty labels just aren’t worth the extra cost for me. I’ve had decent luck with regular old painter’s tape and a Sharpie, even near the furnace, as long as I don’t expect it to last forever. If something’s really important, I’ll just snap a photo on my phone—way faster than sketching and doesn’t cost anything.
Sometimes I’ll jot down a quick sketch in my notebook too, just in case the label doesn’t survive.
I mean, do you actually go back and look at those sketches? Half the time I forget where I put the notebook. Maybe it’s just me, but digital pics seem easier to keep track of. Not saying your way is wrong, just seems like there are cheaper or simpler options if you’re not doing this professionally.
Honestly, I’m with you on the digital pics—my phone’s basically my memory these days. I tried the notebook thing once, but it ended up with coffee stains and a doodle of my cat, so not super helpful when I was knee-deep in pipes. Painter’s tape and a Sharpie have saved me more than once, though. If it falls off, at least it’s compostable... right?
Yeah, I hear you on the notebook—mine turned into a soggy mess the first time I set it down near a leaky valve. Digital pics are a lifesaver, but I get nervous about dropping my phone in a crawlspace or getting it covered in grime. I’ve started using those little zip ties with tags for labeling, especially if I know I’ll be back to finish later. They don’t fall off as easy as tape, but I still double-check everything before turning water back on... just in case.
Digital pics are a lifesaver, but I get nervous about dropping my phone in a crawlspace or getting it covered in grime.
I totally get that—my phone’s been through more than one close call under a sink. Have you tried those cheap waterproof phone pouches? Not perfect, but at least the screen stays clean. I also keep a roll of blue painter’s tape for quick notes right on the pipes, just in case the tags get knocked off. Ever had a label fall off and cause confusion later? That’s my nightmare scenario...
