Discuss Your Project:

020 8351 3395

The Most Common DIY Plumbing Mistakes and How to Fix Them

DIY jobs around the home never seem to end. Just as you deal with one job, along comes another. With time and money pressing, it can be tempting to think that we can handle every task and job…but that’s not always the case. Here, we take a look at the most common mistakes and how you can fix them!

Mistake 1 – How does it go back together?!

Most things come apart really easily but, when it comes to putting them back together, the small pieces can become the jigsaw of DIY plumbing nightmares. Short of time and unsure what we are doing, we can take things apart to get to the problem without taking too much notice of what bit came out of where and which bit connects to what.
Our top tip: Whip out your smart phone and take a photo before you start to dismantle anything. This way you have a visual record of what something should look like.

Mistake 2 – Over-tightening

We can see why you would be tempted to do this – one pipe connects to another and in that pipe, hundreds of litres of water will pass. If the connection springs a leak, it will mean water damage as well as hundreds of pounds digging up the floor/taking down the ceiling/ whatever. But, using super human strength to tighten connections between pipes and so on spells DIY plumbing disaster – over-tightening leads to threads being stripped which weakens the connection; hence, drippy leaks.
Our top tip: When you tighten something, hand tighten it first (no superhuman strength needed). And then, either follow product instructions or tighten with another quarter of a degree turn. That’s it. No more.

Mistake 3 – Not turning off the water

Not just the ideal plot for a sitcom, failing to turn off the water and drenching your home with water is not unheard of and possibly the most embarrassing DIY plumbing nightmare. Water cascading all over the place can do a lot of damage in a short space of time.
Our top tip: Even if you think you can do the job without turning the water off, turn the water off by closing the tap or valve under the sink in the kitchen. In some houses, it will be located somewhere else, such as under the stairs.

Mistake 4 – Not clearly drains properly

Chemical drain unblockers and cleaners can damage drain and connecting parts, especially if you leave them ‘soaking’ in the drains for longer than the necessary stated time. They can also be bad for the environment.
Our top tip: Avoid harsh chemicals at all costs. If you have a stubborn blockage or a slow running drain, we suggest calling a plumber for advice.

Mistake 5 – Not having a plan

Preparation is key. And it is that simple. Not knowing what the problem is, what you are up against, possible solutions are all the stuff of DIY plumbing nightmares that can lead to expensive damage that can be avoided.
Our top tip: not sure what you are doing? Don’t blunder on – call PGH plumbers and we’ll be sure to help you avoid any expensive mistakes.