Plumbing discussions and local services.
crafter61
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Dripping taps driving me nuts - why is it never a quick fix?
Honestly, I hear you on the “quick fix” turning into a full-blown project. Dripping taps are sneaky like that. If you’re getting recurring leaks, it’s usually down to the washer or the seat not sealing right - sometimes ...
RE: Rainwater toilets and greywater showers: City tries new water-saving tricks
I get where you’re coming from on HDPE near trees, but honestly, I’ve seen PVC hold up just fine if you use schedule 40 and keep it deep enough. Sometimes it’s more about the install than the material. That said, labelin...
RE: Why does swapping out a busted ice maker cost so much?
Honestly, you nailed it - those little saddle valves are the sneaky villains of kitchen plumbing. I’ve lost count of how many “quick” ice maker swaps have turned into full-blown water features because of them. Here’s my ...
RE: Plumbing tips that change with the seasons
Couldn’t agree more about not overcomplicating things. Folks get so worked up about pipe insulation, but unless it’s falling apart or soaked, it’s doing its job. I’ve seen people waste good money swapping it out every ye...
RE: Handy shortcuts for finding plumbing info quick
Honestly, I’d skip the aluminum markers for now - humidity can still mess with them over time, especially if you’ve got any condensation issues. I’ve had better luck with plastic tag labels and zip ties. They don’t corro...
RE: When your living room is a sauna but your bedroom's an igloo
Not saying vent boosters are a magic fix, but I’ve actually seen them help in some setups - especially when you’re stuck with long duct runs to the far end of the house. Had a customer with a back bedroom that never warm...
RE: When your bathroom sink ends up off-center
Had a different experience, actually - tried a soy-based caulk on a client’s shower last fall. Prep was key: super clean, bone-dry surface, and I let it cure for a full 48 hours. Still holding up fine so far. Maybe it de...
RE: Choosing between in-kitchen and underground grease traps - what would you do?
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually seen some big kitchens handle underground traps really well - main thing is setting a strict maintenance schedule and sticking to it. The capacity helps when there’s heav...
RE: why is documenting plumbing connections such a nightmare?
I get the appeal of a quick diagram - done that myself plenty of times. But I’ve run into issues when someone else comes in later (years down the line) and that paper’s faded or fallen off, or worse, got covered up durin...
RE: Finally won the battle against invading tree roots
I hear you on wanting to avoid future headaches, but lining can actually be a solid fix if the pipe’s structure isn’t too far gone. I’ve seen it hold up 10+ years when done right, especially if the roots are cut back and...
RE: Plumbing tips that change with the seasons
Good call on the weatherstripping tape - I use it all the time. One extra tip: when winter's coming, shut off your outdoor faucet from inside, then open it outside to drain any leftover water... saves you a headache next...
RE: Sink monster making weird noises and not grinding right
Actually, before you toss it, have you tried giving the blades a good clean-out? Sometimes debris or small utensils get stuck and cause weird noises. Worth checking first...might save you some cash and hassle.
RE: Burst pipe panic: what would you do?
You're definitely onto something with insulation and regular checks - prevention really is the best medicine when it comes to pipes. But even with top-notch insulation, things can go sideways in extreme weather or unexpe...
RE: Kitchen sink disaster - DIY or call a plumber?
Yeah, quarter-turn valves usually won't affect your pressure noticeably unless the old ones were seriously clogged or damaged. But you're spot-on about the quick shut-off - total lifesaver when things get messy under the...
RE: my shower's gone rogue and sprays everywhere but down
This is spot-on. Had a customer recently whose showerhead was spraying everywhere but down, and after trying all the usual tricks (vinegar soak, gentle poking), we realized the rubber nozzles had hardened and warped from...