I hear you on the push-to-connect stuff—super handy in a pinch, but I’ve seen them pop loose if there’s any movement or vibration. Compression fittings are my go-to for under-sink jobs, especially with older pipes. Here’s my usual routine: clean the threads, wrap with Teflon tape (a little goes a long way), then a dab of pipe dope for good measure. Tighten it up, but don’t overdo it or you’ll crack something. Curious—has anyone tried those newer flexible braided hoses? I’ve had decent luck with them, but I wonder how they hold up long-term under daily use...
Curious—has anyone tried those newer flexible braided hoses? I’ve had decent luck with them, but I wonder how they hold up long-term under daily use...
Those braided hoses are a game changer for quick fixes, especially in tight spots. I started using them about six years back after wrestling with some ancient copper lines that just wouldn’t cooperate. Haven’t had a single one fail yet, knock on wood. The key is making sure you don’t kink them during install—seen a few folks twist them too hard and end up with a slow leak months later.
One thing I do differently: I skip the Teflon tape on the braided hose connections since most have rubber washers inside. Over-tightening can actually mess up the washer and cause drips down the line. Just hand-tighten, then a gentle turn with the wrench. That’s usually plenty.
I still trust compression fittings for the old stuff, but for newer setups or quick swaps, those braided lines have saved me a ton of headaches. Haven’t seen any issues with daily use, even in busy kitchens.
I’m with you on the braided hoses—swapped out the old rigid lines under our kitchen sink a couple years ago and haven’t looked back. They’re way easier to work with, especially if you’re trying to save a few bucks doing it yourself. Only thing I’d add is to check the length before buying; I once grabbed one that was just a hair too short and had to make another trip. Haven’t had any leaks or issues, but I do peek under the sink every now and then just in case... old habits die hard.
Honestly, I’m a little wary of the braided hoses—yeah, they’re flexible and make life easier under cramped sinks, but I’ve seen a couple fail at the crimped ends after a few years. Maybe I just have bad luck or hard water, who knows. I actually went back to copper lines in my last reno. Bit more hassle to install, but I sleep better not worrying about a surprise indoor swimming pool at 2am... Guess it’s one of those “pick your poison” deals.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve had the opposite luck. Copper’s solid, but I’ve had one split at a solder joint after a decade—total mess. Switched to braided hoses for the last two places and, knock on wood, no issues yet. Maybe it’s just the water in my area, or maybe I’m overdue for a flood... Either way, nothing’s truly bulletproof under a sink.