Do It Yourself Plumbing Projects
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l ot of homeowners get nervous when it comes to DIY plumbing projects: no one wants to take a chance on losing water pressure for their morning showers! But whether you’re looking to completely remodel your kitchen, or simply put a permanent end to a leaky faucet, there are some easy plumbing basics that all homeowners should be aware of before they attempt a project of any size.
Before beginning any DIY plumbing task, it’s important to know where your main water valve is, in case you need to do more work than you originally intended. It’s also a good idea to turn off your hot water heater before beginning any projects. In addition, you should have a small collection of tools available before you attempt to work on your plumbing: basics include wrenches (a must for almost every DIY home improvement job!), Allen keys, duct tape and/or
sealant tape, a multi-bit screwdriver and a 5 gallon bucket. You’ll also want to keep some super-absorbent paper towels around to wipe up any spills. For those who are looking to make minor improvements, a good place to start is a high-quality water filter. They’re often easily installed underneath the sink, and some can be attached directly to the faucet in your kitchen. Water filters save homeowners a tremendous amount of money in the long run, as disposable bottles of water can be costly to purchase over time. They also limit the amount of water each household creates, and eliminate the contaminants that can be found in plastic. An easy and relatively inexpensive way of boosting the appeal – and worth – of your home comes in the form of fixtures. Replacing faucets and showerheads with newer, more modern fixtures is a good beginning DIY plumbing project. Brushed nickel is the most popular finish, but antique finishes add a bit of flair to modern and old-world designs. These plumbing basics add a world of difference to any kitchen or bathroom, and are a good way to “wet your feet” as you make your first forays into the world of home improvement.