The Most Common Mistakes People Make With Bathroom Plumbing

Low water pressure or a backup is enough to throw a wrench in your daily routine. This is why bathroom plumbing deserves extra attention. Before you roll up your sleeves and pull up a DIY video, we want to remind of you the costs.

DIY plumbing might sound exciting and fiscally savvy, but the risks and costs are worth mentioning. In fact, the pros at Texas Rooter have been called countless times to fix DIY mistakes. Here are some common ones we’ve encountered.

Mistake 1: Overtightening Connections

Tighter is not always better. Many DIYers unknowingly overtighten fittings, bolts, or supply lines. Their thinking is that this will prevent leaks. In reality, tightening too much can strip threads and damage washers… which can lead to leaks.

To make matters worse, the dependable plumber is going to have a tougher time unscrewing overtightened connections. That’s going to make repairs take longer. Too much force can even warp seals or fracture delicate parts, forcing you to get replacement parts.

Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Materials

We’re no chef, but ingredients matter in our industry, too. Mixing metals like copper and galvanized steel, for instance, can cause corrosion. Using standard PVC for high-temperature or pressurized lines can lead to bursts or melting.

Plumbing is more complex than it gets credit for. Whether it’s sealing a drain line, replacing a P-trap, or connecting supply valves, it is imperative that you use the correct materials. With something as intricate as bathroom plumbing, the right materials make all the difference in long-term performance.

Mistake 3: Poor Fixture Installation

We had to speak broadly here, because… well, there’s a lot that can go wrong. Installing a new sink or toilet may look simple on a tutorial video; in real life, it’s an exact process. Set a toilet even slightly off-center, and you risk leaks around the wax ring. Connect a sink drain at the wrong slope, and you’ve got water pooling.

We mentioned earlier that plumbing is complex. More importantly, plumbing demands precision. Everything from the water pressure and pipe angles to venting and sealing requires precise measurements and execution.

The last thing you want is to have to schedule plumbing repair service on a faucet you JUST installed. Enjoy a peace of mind by leaving the installation to experienced pros.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Leaks or Drain Issues

Leaks and drainage issues are so common that far too many homeowners brush them off. A dripping faucet or slow-draining tub might not seem like an emergency, but they’re not far off.

Plus, a drip per second ends up wasting over 2,000 gallons of water through the year! If that water is leaking onto your floors or foundation, then you’ve got even bigger problems to worry about.

What starts as a minor nuisance can turn into a major headache. Don’t wait for the toilet to overflow. Address gurgling sounds and slow drainage, or any plumbing issue, before things get out of hand.

Hire a Local Plumber Today

If you’re looking for a trained and uniformed plumber from a reputable business in the area, then consider Texas Rooter. As a licensed and insured company, we are committed to delivering quality and long-lasting results.

Our premium services won’t cost an arm and a leg, either. In fact, we’re prepared to give you a price quote BEFORE the work begins. Call or message Texas Rooter and ask about our prices and fees.