- PEX really does make life easier, especially when you’re dealing with 100-year-old plaster and lath. I used to dread opening up a wall, never knowing if I’d find a pipe or a squirrel nest.
- I’m with you on enzyme cleaners—less drama than chemicals, and my old drains seem to like them better. Auger’s saved me more than once, though.
- Copper’s classic, but after chasing leaks in the crawlspace last winter, I’m not sentimental. PEX for the win.
- As for taste, I can’t tell the difference... but then again, my coffee’s strong enough to hide just about anything.
PEX really does make life easier, especially when you’re dealing with 100-year-old plaster and lath.
Totally get this—PEX is a game changer for old houses. I do wonder, though, has anyone tried using recycled PEX or other eco-friendly piping? I keep thinking about the long-term impact of all this plastic, even if it’s super convenient. Also, enzyme cleaners are great, but I’ve had mixed results with them on really stubborn clogs. Anyone found a greener fix that actually works for those nightmare drains?
Honestly, I get the appeal of PEX—it's so much easier to snake through weird old walls. But I keep coming back to copper, even if it’s a pain to install. It lasts forever and doesn’t add more plastic to the world. As for clogs, baking soda and vinegar sometimes works, but for the truly gnarly ones, I’ve had better luck with a drain snake than any “green” cleaner. Feels like some things just need a little elbow grease...
Copper’s definitely my go-to too, even if it means sweating pipes in a crawlspace that feels like a sauna. I had to replace a section last year—old joint finally gave up after 60+ years. For clogs, I’ve found that removing the trap and cleaning it out is usually faster than any chemical or “natural” fix. Drain snakes work, but sometimes you just gotta get your hands dirty... literally.
For clogs, I’ve found that removing the trap and cleaning it out is usually faster than any chemical or “natural” fix.
I’m right there with you on pulling the trap. Quick and way less mess than snaking the whole line. If I run into a stubborn clog past the trap, I’ll use a hand auger before reaching for chemicals—never had much luck with those anyway. For leaks, I always double-check my solder joints and use emery cloth to really clean the copper before sweating. It’s tempting to rush, but that prep saves headaches later. Anyone else ever try push-to-connect fittings in tight spots? They’re not cheap but can be a lifesaver under pressure...
