Category: Plumbing

Replacing old copper pipes with new PEX piping is a great way to upgrade and modernize the plumbing in your home. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is flexible, durable, and resistant to scale buildup and corrosion. Installing PEX pipe is also faster and easier than working with rigid copper pipes that need soldered joints. With some basic…

Shutting off the main water supply in a mobile home is an important step to take before making plumbing repairs, winterizing your pipes, or in the event of a burst pipe. Taking the proper precautions and following the right steps will allow you to safely turn off the water and avoid costly damage. Locate the…

When it comes to selecting the right piping material for your plumbing system, homeowners and contractors often debate between copper, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene), and Push-Fit SharkBite fittings. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, ease of installation, durability, and performance. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed comparison of copper vs…

A water softener is an essential appliance that removes minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water. Hard water causes scale build-up in pipes and appliances, making them less efficient. A water softener uses a process called ion exchange to transform hard water into soft water, protecting your home and extending the life of appliances.…

Having the right shutoff valve under your sink is important for controlling water flow and preventing leaks or flooding. There are various types of under-sink shutoff valves to choose from, each with their own pros and cons. This guide will outline the 9 most common types of under-sink shutoff valves and provide tips on how…

Installing a new kitchen sink drain is a straightforward home improvement project that can update the look and function of your kitchen. With some basic tools and plumbing parts, you can replace an old drain with a new assembly in just a few hours. Learning how to choose the right drain size and style, disconnect…

Installing and capping pipes with push-to-connect fittings is a simple and convenient way to make water supply connections. These innovative fittings provide a fast, secure seal without requiring soldering, clamps, or glues. With a few basic tools and some know-how, you can cap pipes for a clean, professional finish. What Are Push-to-Connect Fittings? Push-to-connect, also…

A water heater expansion tank is an important component of any closed plumbing system that uses a water heater. The expansion tank helps maintain proper water pressure by absorbing excess thermal expansion that occurs when water is heated inside the water heater. Having a properly sized and installed expansion tank is critical to the safety…

Plumber’s tape, also known as thread seal tape or PTFE tape, is an essential tool for anyone doing plumbing work. Properly applying plumber’s tape creates a tighter seal between threaded pipe connections to prevent leaks. Using plumber’s tape may seem straightforward, but there are some important steps to follow and common mistakes to avoid for…

Installing a self-piercing saddle valve is a handy way to tap into existing water lines to add new plumbing fixtures without having to shut off the main water supply or cut into the pipe. With some basic tools and supplies, you can install a saddle valve in just a few steps. What is a Self-Piercing…