I hear you on the improvements, but I’ve still had a couple push-fits let go in places I really didn’t want them to. Once it was a brand-new fitting, installed by a pro, and it still popped off after a year—turned out there was a tiny nick on the pipe that nobody caught. Maybe that’s installer error, maybe just bad luck, but with soldered joints or compression fittings, I feel like I can sleep easier. For spots I can’t check, I stick with what’s worked for decades. If it’s somewhere accessible, sure, push-fits are super convenient. Just not behind drywall for me... too many horror stories from tenants over the years.
Totally get where you’re coming from. Had a push-fit behind a kitchen wall once—looked fine for months, then a slow drip turned into a mess right before a tenant moved in. Ever since, anything hidden gets soldered or compression, no question. Push-fits are great for quick fixes, but I just don’t trust ’em where I can’t keep an eye on things.
Push-fits are great for quick fixes, but I just don’t trust ’em where I can’t keep an eye on things.
I get that. I’ve used push-fits in accessible spots, but I’m always a bit nervous about them long-term. Ever tried those newer plastic compression fittings? Curious if they’re any more reliable behind walls.
I’ve actually used those plastic compression fittings behind a bathroom wall when I was redoing some pipes on a tight budget. Here’s what I noticed:
- They’re easier to fit than copper, but you’ve got to be careful tightening them—too much and they’ll crack, too little and they might seep.
- Haven’t had leaks yet, but I still get a bit anxious knowing they’re hidden.
- Cost-wise, they’re cheaper than brass, but I’m not convinced they’ll last 20+ years like soldered joints.
If you’re covering it up, I’d probably stick with something tried-and-true unless you’re in a pinch. Peace of mind is worth a few extra bucks sometimes...
If you’re covering it up, I’d probably stick with something tried-and-true unless you’re in a pinch. Peace of mind is worth a few extra bucks sometimes...
That’s kind of my thinking too. Out of curiosity, did you use any sort of access panel or just drywall right over the fittings? I always wonder if folks regret not leaving a way to check on those hidden joints down the line.
