Whether it’s YouTube videos or a step-by-step guide, the growth of the internet has allowed Do It Yourself culture to flourish. For many homeowners, this is a great way to save some money on inevitable plumbing issues both large and small.
But like everything online, cheap information can be risky. There are a few DIY repairs that just about anyone can accomplish on their own if they have the time to spare, but there are more difficult projects that should never be attempted without years of experience and the necessary professional equipment needed for major plumbing jobs.
With sensitive plumbing matters, not only can you waste your time, you might end up spending twice what you expected when the plumber not only has to fix the original issue, but also the damage caused by a botched DIY project. And many tasks are simply dangerous without proper tools that no homeowner wants to purchase.
Over the years at Simpson Plumbing we’ve seen it all in Tracy, from bang-up jobs that required a few fixes to absolute disasters, so we put together a list of the top 3 plumbing jobs in our opinion that you do not want to try on your own.
The Top Three Plumbing Projects You Don’t Want To DIY
Repiping
There are many different types of repiping tasks but there’s always one rule: don’t try this on your own. Replacing old pipes involves the intricate plumbing system of your entire home. One false move can set you back thousands of dollars, or send you to the nearest hotel for a month while your home is repaired and drying out. Even the smallest mistake can result in leaks that will bring mold and long term damage that you won’t discover until it’s too late.
Any gas-line plumbing or gas water heater install
It should go without saying that when it comes to gas lines, you don’t want to tackle this problem without a highly-trained, well-tooled professional. Even a seemingly successful install can result in an exploding water heater months down the road. Gas lines need expert experience and the right equipment for the job. Leave this one to the pros.
Any sewer repairs
Any sewer repair by an amateur is likely going to involve tearing up your yard. This will be expensive and on display for your entire neighborhood. Second, sewage systems nearly always involve unhealthy substances and refuse — don’t expose yourself and your family without proper safety equipment. A professional plumber can even perform “trenchless” repairs that spare you and your yard.
