We get it — plumbing issues are a drag and not everyone wants to immediately throw in the towel and call a plumber. If your pipes are leaking (or you’re experiencing some other type of plumbing issue), you may be considering using one of the many DIY pipe repair tricks that you can find online.
Unfortunately, DIY pipe repair tricks almost always fail. Unless you’re a professional plumber, there’s a huge chance that something could go wrong with these DIY tricks. It could ultimately end up causing more problems — which is going to end up costing you a lot more time, money, and stress than if you had just hired a professional plumber in the first place.
In today’s blog post, we’ll be going over some DIY pipe repair tricks that always fail. We’ll also be discussing why these “tricks” fail, and what you should do instead, so stick around!
DIY Pipe Repair and Plumbing “Tricks” That May Actually Cause More Problems
If you’re trying to fix a plumbing issue on your own, like a blocked drain, for example, it’s easy to think that you’ve solved the issue if you manage to get rid of the block. However, later on, you might discover that the block keeps coming back, which means that the issue is likely more serious than you thought.
It’s always better to let a professional plumber handle these types of repairs, since they can figure out the main cause, which — needless to say — can be harder for DIYers. Let’s take a look at some of the most common DIY pipe repair tricks that frequently end up causing more problems below:
Chemical Drain Cleaners
DIYers may also use chemical drain cleaners to deal with clogs, but using these types of cleaners can actually corrode your pipes and cause long-term damage. The chemicals are harsh on your plumbing, and will probably weaken your pipes. This could lead to more severe issues down the line, and you’ll have to end up hiring a professional plumber for burst pipe repair.
Duct Tape Patch
DIYers often resort to using duct tape for a quick fix on pipe leaks. While this may help temporarily, duct tape is not designed to withstand water pressure and can deteriorate over time. This can, unfortunately, lead to recurrent leaks that never really go away unless you hire a professional plumber.
Rubber Hose Clamp
Wrapping a rubber hose and securing it with a clamp is another common DIY attempt people often use to try and fix leaks. However, this method usually fails as the hose may not create a sufficient seal. This could actually cause pipe leaks to get worse.
Over-Tightening Fittings
While tightening fittings is necessary for a secure connection, over-tightening can damage threads and seals. DIYers may unintentionally cause cracks or fractures in their pipes, which can lead to leaks or bursts.
DIY Pipe Replacement Without the Right Tools
Attempting to replace a damaged section of a pipe without using the right tools can lead to problems like improper fittings and connections. This DIY approach often results in leaks and can make the initial problem worse.
Why Attempting DIY Pipe Repair is a Bad Idea
A lot of homeowners enjoy doing DIY plumbing projects, but attempting to solve issues like leaks and burst pipes on your own isn’t always a good idea. Here are some reasons why it’s often better to let an experienced professional handle your plumbing repairs:
Misdiagnosing Issues
Professionals are better equipped to diagnose plumbing problems accurately. They’re basically like doctors for your pipes! DIYers might think they’re dealing with a simple clog, but might end up missing underlying issues. Attempting to fix misdiagnosed plumbing issues on your own could lead to bigger problems. That probably goes without saying!
Limited Knowledge of Solutions
A professional plumber will be able to offer plenty of different potential solutions depending on the particular plumbing issue you’re dealing with. DIY attempts usually focus on simple fixes that might not be the most effective, especially over the long term.
Unawareness of Local Codes
DIYers might unintentionally overlook local plumbing regulations. This could potentially lead to legal trouble and decreased property value. Professional plumbers are familiar with these codes, and they’ll be able to make sure that your plumbing system complies with local ordinances.
Safety Concerns
Plumbing repairs pose inherent risks, and DIYers may lack the skills or use tools improperly. This could, of course, lead to serious injuries. Professionals are trained to handle safety concerns associated with chemical splatters, flying debris, and other potential risks that come with pipe repairs and other plumbing projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don’t DIY pipe repair tricks work?
DIY pipe repair tricks often fall short because, while they may provide temporary fixes, DIYers usually lack the expertise needed to address the root cause of most serious plumbing issues.
Why can’t I use duct tape for a quick fix on pipe leaks?
No one is going to stop you from using duct tape to “fix” your leaking pipes, but it’s really not a good idea. Duct tape is not designed to withstand significant water pressure, and its effectiveness diminishes over time. Professional repairs are needed for a more reliable and lasting fix.
Why are chemical drain cleaners not recommended for DIY use?
Chemical drain cleaners can, unfortunately, corrode pipes and cause quite a bit of long-term damage. A professional plumber will be able to use safer and more effective methods to address clogs without harming your plumbing system.
Hire a Fast, Reliable, Licensed Plumber You Can Trust
We understand that there’s a certain amount of thrill that comes with trying to fix pipe repairs and other plumbing issues on your own, but the fact of the matter is, that these DIY “fixes” often do more harm than good.
Feel free to reach out to Perry Plumbing today if you’re having issues with leaks or clogged pipes. We can help with leak detection, burst pipe repair, plumbing pipe replacement, and more!