Good points on the pipe bends—I've seen people try to squeeze tight corners to save space, and then wonder why their shower barely trickles. Another thing worth mentioning: pay attention to pipe materials. I switched to PEX a few years back, and honestly, it's been a game changer. Easier to work with, fewer joints to leak, and it holds up better in freezing temps (speaking from experience here, unfortunately...).
Also, about the thread tape—I agree it's essential, but don't go nuts wrapping it either. I've seen people pile it on too thick, and then struggle to get fittings threaded properly. Just a couple wraps, neatly done, usually does the trick. And if you're dealing with older plumbing, definitely have some penetrating oil handy. Rusted fittings can turn a simple job into a weekend-long headache real quick.
Totally agree on the PEX—switched over myself a while back and haven't looked back since. One thing I'd add though: don't cheap out on fittings. Seen some folks grab the bargain-bin connectors, then wonder why they're chasing leaks a month later. Also, if you're dealing with older galvanized pipes, sometimes it's better to bite the bullet and replace sections entirely rather than fight rusted fittings all weekend... learned that one the hard way.
Good points there, especially about fittings. I've seen a couple DIY jobs where folks tried to reuse old connectors or went for the cheapest ones they could find... never ends well. Also, if you're tackling galvanized pipes, wear eye protection and gloves—rust flakes and metal shards aren't fun. And definitely shut off the main water valve before you start cutting into anything. Learned early on that a little extra caution saves a lot of headaches later.
"And definitely shut off the main water valve before you start cutting into anything."
Can't stress this enough. Seen too many flooded bathrooms from folks skipping that step. Also, keep a bucket handy—there's always some residual water left in the pipes even after shutting off the valve. And if you're dealing with older plumbing, have a backup plan ready. Sometimes those old fittings just crumble when you try to loosen them... better to expect it than be caught off guard.
Good call on the bucket. Learned that one the hard way myself. A few years back, I was helping a buddy redo his bathroom, and even after shutting off the main valve, we got a surprise shower from residual water trapped in the pipes. And yeah, older fittings can be a nightmare—had one literally snap off in my hand once. Like you said:
"Sometimes those old fittings just crumble when you try to loosen them..."
Better safe than sorry, folks.
