Common Plumbing Mistakes Homeowners Make and How to Avoid Them
Ever had one of those "oh no" moments in the middle of a DIY plumbing project? Maybe water spraying from somewhere it shouldn’t... or realizing you forgot a key part after three trips to the store?
You’re not alone.
Whether you're a first-time fixer or a seasoned weekend warrior, plumbing mishaps happen. But the good news? Most of them are easy to avoid once you know what to look out for.
Let’s break down some of the most common plumbing mistakes (yes, the ones we hear about all the time)—and how you can avoid them like a pro.
1. Over-Tightening Everything
It’s tempting to crank down those fittings until your arm shakes, but here’s the thing: tighter doesn’t always mean better.
In fact, overtightening can crack fittings, strip threads, and cause more leaks than it prevents.
Avoid it: Use a wrench, but go easy. Tighten just until snug—and then stop. If you're working with plastic or brass, be extra gentle.
2. Forgetting to Turn Off the Water
This one’s a classic.
You’re excited. Tools are out. You start unscrewing that faucet—and suddenly, water is everywhere.
Avoid it: Always shut off the valve to that fixture first. If there isn’t one, turn off the main water supply. Trust us, your floor will thank you.
3. Using the Wrong Kind of Teflon Tape (or Using It Wrong)
We love Teflon tape. It’s cheap, easy to use, and keeps things leak-free. But using the wrong kind—or wrapping it the wrong way—can totally mess up your connection.
Avoid it: Use plumber-grade PTFE tape and wrap it clockwise 3–4 times around the threads. And yes, clockwise matters—otherwise the tape unravels as you tighten.
4. Mixing the Wrong Types of Pipes
Copper + galvanized steel = 💥 (not literally, but close). Mixing metals without the right fittings can lead to corrosion and costly repairs later.
Avoid it: Use a dielectric union or a proper transition fitting when working with different materials.
5. Ignoring the Little Leak
It’s just a small drip, right? Not a big deal? Think again.
A slow leak can waste gallons of water over time—and lead to mold, rot, or a mess you don’t want to clean up.
Avoid it: Take care of it now. Often it’s just a worn washer, a loose handle, or a gasket that needs replacing. Quick fix. Big savings.
Bonus: Using Whatever Tool You Have Lying Around
If you've ever tried to pull off a stuck faucet handle with a butter knife… we’ve been there. But having the right tools can save time, frustration, and damage.
Some essentials we recommend keeping around:
Handle puller (for those stubborn knobs)
Seat wrench set (for faucet internals)
Teflon tape (always)
Tubing cutter (for clean, straight pipe cuts)
You can find all of these right here → Plumbing Supply R Us
Wrap-Up: Mistakes Happen, But You're Smarter Now
Plumbing doesn’t have to be stressful (or messy). With a little know-how and the right parts, you’ll get the job done faster, cleaner, and with way less yelling.
And if you ever feel stuck? Reach out—we’re happy to help you figure out exactly what you need.
Need supplies?
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