WEEKEND PLUMBING JOBS: THE MYTH LIVES ON
I hear you on the “weekend” optimism. Last year, I tried to replace a toilet in my 1920s place—should’ve been a straightforward swap, right? Turns out the flange was some ancient size that nobody carries anymore, and the floor underneath was basically dust. Ended up with a hole in the bathroom for four days and a crash course in subfloor repair. I’ve learned to double the time estimate for any job involving pipes or wires, especially in these old houses. There’s always some hidden surprise... usually not a good one.
Never fails—what looks like a quick fix always turns into a saga, especially with old plumbing. I once tried to swap out a kitchen faucet and found the shutoff valves were basically fused to the pipes. Ended up replacing half the supply lines just to stop a slow leak. I’ve started budgeting more time for “unforeseen archaeology” than for the actual job itself.
Totally get what you mean about “unforeseen archaeology”—I’ve started treating every plumbing job like I’m opening a time capsule. Last time I swapped a bathroom sink, the compression fittings crumbled as soon as I touched them. Now, before I even start, I check every valve and fitting for corrosion or weirdness. If anything looks sketchy, I just plan to replace it up front. Saves a ton of frustration later, even if it means the “quick” job takes twice as long. Sometimes I wonder if there’s ever such a thing as a true weekend plumbing project...
WHEN DOES A "WEEKEND PLUMBING JOB" EVER ACTUALLY TAKE A WEEKEND?
- You’re not wrong—plumbing’s like opening a wall and finding a squirrel’s nest half the time.
- “Quick” jobs almost always turn into a full-on project. I’ve learned to double my time estimates, especially in older houses.
- Good call on checking every fitting and valve before you start. Saves a lot of swearing later.
- If you see corrosion or anything that looks like it’s from the Nixon era, just swap it out. Trying to save a $5 part can cost you hours if it fails mid-job.
- Honestly, I’ve had maybe two “true” weekend plumbing jobs in the last decade, and both were in new builds. Anything else? Just plan for surprises.
- Sometimes I think the only real “weekend” job is tightening a loose handle...and even then, you never know what you’ll find under there.
You’re doing it right by expecting the unexpected. That’s half the battle with plumbing—just being ready for whatever mess is hiding behind the drywall.
Honestly, I’ve had a few “weekend” jobs actually finish on time, but only after doing a full inspection first. If you map out the shutoffs and know your pipe materials, it’s not always a disaster. Planning makes a difference, especially in these old houses.
