| Plumbing Supplies |
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Supplies needed to perform plumbing remodels and repairs depend on the pipe material used. For example, copper pipes require copper joints and fittings while plastic pipes use plastic joints and fittings. Copper joints can be made by soldering the pipe and fitting together. Fittings may be attached by friction and compression using compression rings. Copper and plastic fittings come in a wide variety of structures and functions. A T-fitting, for example, allows one pipe to feed into two. An elbow allows the pipe to turn a corner. A union joins two pipes. There are many variations to these components including fittings that allow you to attach a new plastic or copper line into an existing steel or iron pipe. In addition, you may need hangers and straps to fasten pipes firmly in place. Add to your list of supplies any products you need to seal such as tub-and-tile caulk, plumber’s putty (for around drains), pipe joint compound, solder and flux, and PVC primer and cement. Also include Teflon pipe dope tape for wrapping pipe threads for a better seal. Remodeling Safety Make sure you use lead-free plumbing solder and not electrical solder that contains lead. Otherwise the joints will soon leak and you’ll have to do them again! The best advice for selecting plumbing supplies is to sketch out what you’re trying to do, then take the sketch to a plumbing supply store. Knowledgeable clerks can help you select the components you’ll need and even give you some tips on how to install them.
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