| Many things can be fixed by a competent | | | | Before you start any plumbing project, here are some |
| do-it-yourself person. Before starting the project, there | | | | basic tools you should have: a variety of wrenches |
| are some things you should consider: Do you know | | | | (including a pipe wrench), pliers, screwdrivers, a sharp |
| how to do the job? Do you have the right tools for the | | | | knife, a hacksaw, plumbers tape or putty, and a |
| job? Do you have the time to do the job? Would it be | | | | plunger. A plumber's snake is also a valuable tool for |
| better to call in a professional plumber? | | | | unclogging drains. |
| Before starting any major projects, you should begin | | | | For larger projects, your toolbox should include a pipe |
| with something fairly simple. Unclogging a drain, | | | | cutter, metal file, sanding paper, propane torch, flux and |
| replacing a leaky faucet, or replacing the workings | | | | solder. Remember to use safety and good sense in all |
| inside the toilet tank are good projects to start on. | | | | you do. You don't want to catch the house on fire or |
| Working on these simple projects you will give you an | | | | give yourself a serious burn. |
| idea of how good your plumbing skills are. | | | | Doing your own repairs can save you money, but |
| If your project is something you don't feel comfortable | | | | there are some things you should consider here as |
| tackling, call in a professional plumber. There is a | | | | well. When figuring out the cost of repairs, remember |
| reason they are well paid; they have the knowledge | | | | to figure in the cost of materials, tools and your time |
| and experience, plus all the tools to do the job right. | | | | (and remember most jobs take longer than expected.) |
| Knowing your limits is important and can end up saving | | | | Once you've determined that, you can better see how |
| you money and time. | | | | much money you would actually save compared to |
| Doing your own plumbing repairs can save valuable | | | | hiring a professional plumber. |
| time and be a great convenience. Everyone should | | | | Before starting your project, remember to turn off the |
| know how to unclog the kitchen sink or toilet. Your | | | | water. Gather the tools you will need, and if possible |
| plumbing skills will also make you popular with friends | | | | enlist a helper. If at any time you think you're in over |
| and neighbors. | | | | hour head, call a professional plumber instead. |