Tools of the Trade: Sewer Repair and Plumbing Tools for the "DIYer"Tools of the Trade: Sewer Repair and Plumbing Tools for the "DIYer"

In order to do a job well, it is necessary to have the right tools. And, while there are some fields where there are multiple tools that can accomplish the same purpose, when it comes to plumbing or sewer related issues, this is not the case. In fact, there is an assortment of tools designed specifically for plumbing related work. Consequently, many homeowners find that it is easier to just call in the plumbing and sewer specialist rather than tackle one of these jobs themselves.

Of course, there are some basic tools that should be a part of any homeowner's toolbox. These tools are:

• Crescent wrench
• 2 foot level
• Drill/driver
• Channel-lock style pliers
• Screwdrivers
• Needlenose pliers
• Utility knife
• Allen wrench set
• Caulk gun
• Flashlight
• Tape measure

Tools designed especially for plumbing, would be a great addition! They are not overly expensive, and once you have them and have learned to use them effectively, you will find there are many jobs you can do yourself and only need to call in a sewer or plumbing specialist for the big jobs that can occasionally arise. So, to help you build your plumber's toolbox, be sure you have these tools:

• Pipe wrenches are used to turn galvanized pipe; plan on having at least 2 of them
• Strap (or cloth) wrench so that you can remove pipes-especially chrome- that is easily scratched or damaged.
• Copper flaring tool which shapes the ends of copper tubing for flare fittings
• Valve seat wrenches are used to remove the small valve seats from worn faucets
• Spud wrenched are used to tighten large nuts that are 2-4 inches in diameter; if the option is available, get one that is adjustable so you can remove nuts and bolts of many different sizes.
• Stem wrenches twist off hard to reach nuts on plumbing fixtures; these are often used when removing a shower faucet as the stem wrench will not damage the tile work.
• A handle puller is used to free the handles of a faucet when corrosion has set in; this is not an uncommon problem when dealing with plumbing in older homes or in homes with compression faucets.
• Tubing benders help make kink-free copper tubing bends
• Augers are used to clean out drain pipes of build-up or debris
• Reseating tools grind a smooth faucet seat
• Pipe brushes are especially good for cleaning pipes before gluing or soldering
• An auto-ignition propane torch is used to heat the soldering copper and will be helpful for a wide array of plumbing related projects.

Once you have your toolbox well-stocked, there is no need to be fearful of plumbing problems or even minor sewer issues. Of course, it you would rather not do the work yourself, you can always find a professional plumber or sewer specialist to do the work for you. Their knowledge of the job and how the tools are used is one of the reasons that so many homeowners opt to leave sewer related jobs to the professionals.

For more information on sewer and plumbing repair or to receive a free estimate, visit Gene's Water & Sewer of  Minneapolis, MN.

Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Gene's Water & Sewer. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.