"Be careful with overtightening fittings, especially plastic ones. Learned the hard way after cracking a connector and having to run back to the store mid-job."
Been there, done that... multiple times actually. Cracked a plastic fitting once at 9pm on a Sunday night—talk about bad timing. Totally agree on silicone grease too; it saved me from a persistent drip last year. As for tape vs pipe dope, I've found tape easier for quick fixes, but pipe dope seems more reliable long-term. Guess it depends on patience and the job at hand.
I've cracked my share of plastic fittings too—usually from trying to get that "one extra turn" for peace of mind. Learned to trust the feel rather than force it. Tape's handy, but I've had better luck with pipe dope on threaded metal fittings, especially if they're gonna be hidden behind drywall or tile. Nothing worse than sealing up a wall and then noticing a slow drip days later...
"Nothing worse than sealing up a wall and then noticing a slow drip days later..."
Been there, done that... learned the hard way to triple-check before closing things up. I'm curious though, has anyone tried those push-fit connectors (like SharkBite) behind drywall? I've heard mixed opinions—some swear by them for ease, others say they're risky long-term. I'm tempted because soldering copper isn't exactly my strong suit, but I don't wanna gamble on hidden leaks either. Thoughts?
I've used SharkBites a handful of times—mostly quick fixes in rental units. They're handy in a pinch and haven't leaked on me yet, but I still don't fully trust 'em behind drywall long-term. Copper sweat joints are proven over decades; SharkBites just don't have that history yet. Maybe PEX with proper crimps could be a decent middle-ground for you? Curious if anyone's had issues with PEX fittings behind walls after a few years...
I've seen plenty of PEX crimps behind drywall hold up just fine over the years. Honestly, if you're careful with your crimps and use quality fittings, I'd trust it way more than SharkBites long-term. Copper's solid, sure, but PEX is pretty reliable these days...
