- Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve spent way too many hours sweating pipes just to save a few bucks, but honestly, knowing it’s done right is worth the hassle—especially if it’s going behind drywall.
- Press fittings look slick, but that tool price is wild for a one-off. Unless you’re doing a whole reno or splitting the cost with a neighbor, it’s hard to justify.
- Push-fit stuff is handy in a pinch, but I’ve had one start leaking under my laundry sink after a year. Not a disaster, but enough to make me think twice about using them anywhere permanent.
- YouTube makes everything look easy until you’re holding a torch in one hand and sweating bullets in the other.
- At the end of the day, slow and steady wins. If you’re double-checking your work and not rushing, you’re already ahead of most DIYers.
- Don’t let the fancy tools or shortcuts make you feel like you’re missing out—sometimes old-school is just more reliable, even if it takes longer.
Stick with what gives you peace of mind. The extra time now beats tearing out walls later... trust me, I’ve been there.
Couldn’t agree more about the push-fit stuff—super tempting, but I just don’t trust it for anything that’s not out in the open. Had a SharkBite fitting under my kitchen sink start dripping after six months, and that was enough for me. I’ll sweat copper all day if it means I’m not ripping out drywall later. Press tools are cool, but unless you’re flipping houses or something, that price tag is just nuts. YouTube’s great for tips, but nothing replaces taking your time and double-checking every joint. Peace of mind’s worth more than saving an hour or two.
Totally get where you’re coming from on the push-fit stuff. I’ve used SharkBites for quick fixes, but only where I can keep an eye on them—like, if it’s behind a wall, no way. Had a buddy who thought he’d save time with those under his bathroom sink, and sure enough, he ended up with a soggy vanity six months later. Not worth the gamble.
When it comes to plumbing, I’m all about the “measure twice, cut once” approach. I’ll sweat copper even if it takes me twice as long. Here’s my step-by-step for peace of mind: dry fit everything first, clean and flux like your life depends on it, and double-check for drips after you turn the water back on. Apps are handy for reference (pipe sizing charts and such), but nothing beats hands-on work and a flashlight.
Press tools are cool, but unless you’re doing this every week, that price tag is wild. I’d rather spend that money on better valves or a new torch. YouTube’s great for learning, but yeah—slow and steady wins the race.
I’m with you on not trusting push-fit behind walls. Had a small leak from one in my basement—luckily I caught it fast, but it made me rethink where I use those. I’ll check apps for quick info, but when it comes to anything major or hidden, I’d rather call my plumber and pay for the peace of mind. Maybe I’m just paranoid, but water damage is no joke.
I get the hesitation, but honestly, I’ve had better luck with push-fit than soldered joints—especially in tight spots. Maybe I’m just stubborn, but if you use the right brand and double-check your connections, they’re solid. Did a bathroom reno last year, all push-fit behind drywall, no issues so far. I do keep an eye on things for the first few weeks though... just in case. Apps are handy for quick fixes, but I’d rather learn and do it myself unless it’s something major like a main line. Water damage is a pain, but sometimes calling a pro feels like overkill for small stuff.
