What do you like best for plumbing repairs?

[DemonTrich]

So relocating the water valves for this bath vanity. Its better than raising the vanity 4".
I have a few options, but what's your choice for plumbing repairs.

Sharkbite
Torch/solder
Crimping

I can do the SB very easily, and i already have all the needed supplies/tools. I can solder it, never done before, but Ive done alot of metal fabrication. I don't own a crimper tool.

I

 

[dirtybanger]

Go with sweated joints, 100%

If you've never soldered before, it's much easier than it appears. Skip the water soluble flux for your first time though. It's more sensitive.

I don't trust sharkbite fittings, I've had them pop off. More than once. And I've had a few service calls for other installers jobs that failed. Plus you can't bury them, like inside walls, etc. Giant red flag to a real estate agent.

Pro-press isn't bad, but like you stated, it requires a tool investment.

I use sweat joints on copper everywhere I can unless I'm forced to use PEX.

 

[oldtimes]

Agree. Once you get the hang of it it's painless and easy. Lasts a long time too.

 

[DemonTrich]

I did alot of research. I have 2 sharkbite fittings in my laundry room sink. 1 I did correctly, the other i forgot to sand the outside of the pipe. No leaks in 12yrs of use. Behind walls and buried is ok, legal, and up to code.

 

[rkymtnman]

during the height of COVID bullshit our water heater took a dump. I installed a new one with SB's myself. about 6 months later I had a plumber come in and tidy it up and he crimped everything. the shut off valves with SB fittings from Lowes were way longer than needed but had to get it done.

I'd trust SBs behind a wall etc. though. the plumbers dont' like them I think b/c they are so easy to DIY. lol

 

[DemonTrich]

Ended up Crimping the joints. Time to do the small stuff, then man-handle the new vanity.

 

[dirtybanger]

Good work there, man. You'll sleep soundly with those connections.

 

[paytoncochrano08]

I've got a tip for anyone hesitant about soldering—Sharkbite fittings can be great for quick fixes and tight spots. Just double-check accessibility to prevent future headaches.

 

[paytoncochrano08]

Crimping was a solid choice for your plumbing task! It's a balance between ease and reliability, especially if soldering feels daunting. By the way, if you ever think about larger projects such as commercial plumbing upgrades phoenix az, it's a neat experience akin to trading fun NFTs. Whether going the DIY route or just exploring options, the learning process can be really rewarding.