WEEKEND PLUMBING JOBS ARE NEVER JUST A WEEKEND
Totally get this. I’ve found that if you’re dealing with anything pre-1950s, you might as well double your time estimate. One thing I try: map out the whole run and look for spots where you can isolate sections—sometimes you can at least get partial water back on while you hunt down the right fitting. Also, if you’re opening up walls anyway, I’ll use it as an excuse to insulate or swap in PEX for future-proofing. Not always possible, but it’s saved me headaches later.
Funny you mention swapping in PEX—I've started doing that too, but I always wonder if I'm trading one set of unknowns for another. Ever run into issues later with rodents chewing on PEX or weird connections to old galvanized? Also, when you're insulating, do you go with recycled denim or stick to the usual fiberglass? I've had mixed luck with both, depending on how tight the wall cavities are...
Ever run into issues later with rodents chewing on PEX or weird connections to old galvanized?
That’s the exact thing that keeps me up at night after a “quick” weekend job turns into a saga. I’ve had one property where mice went after the PEX—never thought I’d be researching rodent deterrents for plumbing. Do you find any particular brands or installation tricks help with that? And with insulation, have you noticed any difference in resale value or tenant feedback when you use the denim vs fiberglass, or is it just about what fits best?
never thought I’d be researching rodent deterrents for plumbing
Same here—who knew mice had such expensive taste? I’ve used those metal mesh sleeves as a barrier around PEX in crawlspaces, and it’s helped a bit. On insulation, denim’s gotten way more positive comments from tenants, especially folks sensitive to dust or chemicals. Fiberglass still wins when cost is the main factor, but it’s not as cozy, honestly.
WEEKEND PLUMBING JOBS NEVER STAY ON SCHEDULE
Every “quick fix” turns into a saga in my old place. Last time, I went to swap out a section of pipe and ended up chasing a mouse that squeezed through a gap I didn’t even know existed. Those metal mesh sleeves are a lifesaver, but I’ll second the denim insulation—fiberglass makes me itch for days. Sometimes I wonder if the mice actually prefer the fancy stuff...
