Yeah, I get that. I’m still new to all this, so push-fits seemed like a no-brainer for my first project. But now I’m second-guessing—are compression fittings any more reliable, or is it just a matter of preference? I really don’t want to deal with a leak behind a wall down the line.
But now I’m second-guessing—are compression fittings any more reliable, or is it just a matter of preference? I really don’t want to deal with a leak behind a wall down the line.
- Compression fittings are definitely tried-and-true, especially for stuff you’re going to bury in a wall.
- Push-fits are super easy and honestly pretty reliable, but I’ve seen them fail if the pipe isn’t cut perfectly square or if there’s any debris.
- Compression takes a bit more time and care (tightening properly, using inserts for plastic), but once it’s done right, it’s solid.
- For hidden joints, I’d lean compression. For accessible spots or temporary fixes, push-fit is fine.
- If you’re nervous about leaks, nothing beats testing under pressure before closing up the wall... learned that the hard way once.
If you’re nervous about leaks, nothing beats testing under pressure before closing up the wall... learned that the hard way once.
Couldn’t agree more with the pressure test—nothing like a surprise indoor waterfall to ruin your day (ask me about the time I “trusted” a push-fit behind drywall...).
Compression fittings are my go-to for anything that’s going to be hidden. They’re a bit fiddly, but if you take your time and double-check the tightness, they’re rock solid. I’d add: don’t forget to wrap a bit of PTFE tape around the threads if you’re dealing with older brass compression nuts. Not strictly necessary, but it’s saved my bacon more than once.
Push-fits are great for speed, but I’ve seen them pop off if someone bumps the pipe or if there’s even a tiny nick on the end. For visible or easily accessible spots, sure, but behind a wall? I’d rather wrestle with a stubborn compression fitting than risk it.
And yeah, always—ALWAYS—test under pressure before you close anything up. Trust issues? Maybe. But at least my walls stay dry.
Yeah, pressure testing is non-negotiable—seen too many “quick fixes” turn into disasters after the drywall goes up. I’m with you on compression fittings for hidden spots; they can be a pain to get just right, but I trust them a lot more long-term. Push-fits are handy in a pinch, but one tiny burr or a pipe that’s not cut perfectly square and you’re asking for trouble. I’ve had to chase down leaks from those more than once... Not worth the risk if you won’t have easy access later. PTFE tape on older threads is a solid tip—sometimes those old brass nuts just don’t seal like they used to.
Push-fits are handy in a pinch, but one tiny burr or a pipe that’s not cut perfectly square and you’re asking for trouble. I’ve had to chase down leaks from those more than once... Not worth the risk if you won’t have easy access later.
That’s exactly what happened to me behind our laundry wall last year. I thought I’d save myself some time with a push-fit, and it held fine for about three months. Then I started noticing this faint musty smell—sure enough, tiny drip that had been soaking into the drywall. Had to rip out half the wall just to get at it. Lesson learned: if you can’t see it, don’t trust it.
Compression fittings have been my go-to ever since, even though they can be fiddly. There’s something reassuring about tightening them down and feeling that resistance. I do wonder sometimes if I’m overthinking it though—my neighbor swears by PEX with crimp rings for everything now, says he hasn’t had a single leak in five years. Anyone else tried those? I keep eyeing the crimp tools at the hardware store but haven’t pulled the trigger.
PTFE tape is a lifesaver on old threads, no doubt there. My house is from the 60s and some of those original brass fittings just don’t want to play nice anymore. I’ve also started using pipe dope in combo with tape on anything that looks especially crusty—maybe overkill, but after that laundry room fiasco, I’m not taking chances.
When it comes to new fixtures, I’ve found sticking with name brands (Moen, Delta) saves headaches down the line. The off-brand stuff looks tempting price-wise but I’ve had handles snap off or cartridges seize up way too soon. If you’re doing a bathroom or kitchen reno, spending a little more up front seems worth it for peace of mind.
Curious if anyone has thoughts on ceramic disc valves vs traditional washers? My kitchen faucet is due for replacement and I keep reading mixed things about longevity.
