WEEKEND PLUMBING JOBS NEVER TAKE JUST A WEEKEND
Duct tape on copper pipes is wild, but I get the desperation. I’ve tried to be “prepared” with a box of random bits, but somehow I’m always missing the one fitting I need. Anyone else wonder if it’s actually cheaper to just call a pro after factoring in all the wasted trips to the hardware store?
Anyone else wonder if it’s actually cheaper to just call a pro after factoring in all the wasted trips to the hardware store?
Honestly, once you factor in your time, gas, and the inevitable “forgotten part” runs, hiring someone can be the better deal—especially for anything beyond a simple swap. I’ve seen folks spend more on tools and parts than a service call would’ve cost. That said, if you enjoy the process or want to learn, it’s not always about the money. Just don’t trust duct tape to hold water pressure... it’s a temporary fix at best.
Just don’t trust duct tape to hold water pressure... it’s a temporary fix at best.
Been there, done that—had a “waterfall feature” under my sink for a week. I do think there’s value in learning, but yeah, the cost of all those “one-time use” tools adds up fast. Sometimes you end up with a pile of receipts and a half-finished project. If it’s not fun, calling in the pros saves more than just money.
Sometimes you end up with a pile of receipts and a half-finished project.
That’s the story of my “quick” bathroom faucet swap. One stripped nut, three trips to the store, and a week of brushing my teeth in the kitchen. Honestly, sometimes DIY just isn’t worth the headache.
WHEN DOES A "WEEKEND PLUMBING JOB" EVER ACTUALLY TAKE A WEEKEND?
One stripped nut, three trips to the store, and a week of brushing my teeth in the kitchen.
That sounds about right. I’ve lost count of how many “simple” swaps have turned into full-blown sagas. Last time I tried to replace a shutoff valve, I ended up having to cut the old one off with a hacksaw because it was so corroded. By the time I was done, I’d learned more about compression fittings than I ever wanted to know.
Honestly, I get what you mean about DIY not always being worth it. But sometimes, even when it’s a pain, you end up saving a ton compared to hiring someone—assuming you value your time at zero dollars, which... well, sometimes I do.
I will say, though, after enough of these “weekend” jobs turn into week-long ordeals, you start building up a pretty solid toolkit and some weirdly specific skills. Not sure if that’s a win or just Stockholm syndrome for home improvement.
