DIY Plumbing Risks and Advantages

Posted by Flora on May 23rd, 2022

Practical homeowners are usually vigilant and extra careful when it comes to keeping their plumbing system in shape. They are aware that even minor plumbing issues like leaks or clogs, can turn into a major problem if left neglected. However, sometimes we tend to underestimate plumbing issues that are seemingly trivial at first glance and so we fail to take immediate action until we realize later on that the problem has gone overblown. 

Certain plumbing damages or defects can be resolved using DIY methods. DIYs are actually helpful especially if the issue is just a small one. As long as you have the basic “must-have” tools at home, then there is no need for you to hire plumbing experts, whose service fees are quite pricey.

While DIY plumbing does work, not all DIYs can provide long-term solutions to all plumbing problems. Most of the time, DIYs only serve as short-term remedies. Hence, homeowners, in particular, have to know the advantages and disadvantages that come with DIY plumbing.

Pros and Cons of Plumbing 101

Plumbing experts are the most experienced when it comes to figuring out the means to address defects and malfunctions in your plumbing system. That is why they are the right professionals who can offer us sound advice and guidance relevant to plumbing maintenance. Of course, homeowners may still perform basic troubleshooting and repair on their own without necessarily calling in a plumber. However, they have to bear the following things in mind before taking on a DIY method:

Pros

1. Cost-saving

One advantage of fixing your plumbing problems by yourself is saving costs. You need not spend huge expenses hiring a plumbing expert. Frugal homeowners dread costly plumbing bills; hence, they always try to look for a way to avoid expenditures. If you think you have what it takes to realize plumbing projects such as unblocking your clogged drains or fixing your leaky toilet, then go for DIY.

1. Personally fulfilling

Homeowners who are into DIYs can attest to how rewarding it feels to be able to effectively fix or solve the household plumbing issues on your own. As you carry out the tasks with your own initiatives, you also learn along the way and through that, you will also gain confidence and develop other invaluable skills relevant to plumbing. In case of plumbing emergencies, your acquired experience will help you a lot to respond accordingly without panicking.

Cons

1. Requires knowledge or expertise

The know-how necessary to maintain your plumbing (i.e. fitting fixtures, materials to use, and pressure/temperature ratings)  may be difficult to attain. Certain plumbing tasks require a firm understanding of the nature of the problem at hand and the appropriate methods and tools to use to solve it. Aside from that, you also need to be aware of building codes and policies relevant to plumbing and the potential safety hazards that may arise. Otherwise, things could go wrong and you and other residents will suffer more damage.

1. Demands time

If you decide to take matters into your own hands, then you have to be prepared and spare a substantial amount of time to fix your plumbing. You have to accept that some problems call for more time and effort before they get fixed. So, if you are a busy person, managing your schedule and arranging a suitable time for your DIY project are important.

1. Necessitates purchase of plumbing supplies

Being a DIYer not only entails expertise but also the tools and supplies necessary for the DIY project. Thus, you have to be financially prepared as well so you can buy the right materials and equipment for carrying out your plumbing task. 

To avoid the serious risks that come with DIY plumbing, first, homeowners must evaluate the issue in terms of its level of difficulty, the current condition of your plumbing (i.e. age of your pipes), the materials your fixtures are made of, and other things relevant to your plumbing system. This way, you will be able to tell whether you need to call a plumbing company or not.