Did you know that around 14,000 people in the U.S. are affected by water damage daily?

Now, you don’t have to be part of this statistic.

Everyone should have basic plumbing tools on hand in case pipes do break.

While it’s tempting to resort to hiring professional plumbers when something goes wrong, many problems are relatively easy to fix yourself.

Read on to learn about the essential tools you need to fix pipes in your home.

1. Pipe Wrench

If you need to fix pipes in your home, one of the tools you need is a pipe wrench. They’re used in tightening or loosening pipes and other fittings. They come in different sizes to accommodate different sizes of pipe.

They feature two long handles which provide leverage when twisting the pipe. To use a pipe wrench, place the adjustable jaw against the flat surface of the pipe and the stationary jaw against the round part of the pipe. You can then use the other handle to twist the pipe until it is firmly in place.

2. Adjustable Wrench

This tool can easily and quickly handle different types of nuts and bolts, allowing you to quickly make repairs to your plumbing system. The adjustable head can fit onto any nut or bolt, which makes the repair process smoother and less stressful.

They are also effective for tightening and loosening pipes, valves, fittings, and other parts of your plumbing system without damaging the components. With their fast and efficient design, adjustable wrenches are the go-to tool for plumbers and homeowners alike to help maintain or fix plumbing systems.

3. Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake is a flexible metal cable used to dislodge and clear clogs from drains and pipes. It consists of a long metal shaft that has a crank attached to one end. You should thread the snake through the problematic pipes or drain and then rotate the crank to break up the clog.

Many plumbing snakes also come with a rubber tip at one end to help guide the tool into drains and pipes. They also come in various sizes and models to fit the individual specifications of your pipes. Ultimately, having a plumbing snake on hand can be invaluable for clearing tough clogs and keeping your pipes running smoothly.

4. Slip-Joint Pliers

Slip-joint pliers are durable, long-lasting tools that come in a variety of sizes to accommodate any type of pipe. Their two-position jaws are designed to firmly grip and rotate pipes while supplying strong leverage to make sure they don’t slip.

If you are dealing with slab leaks, for example, you can use slip-joint pliers to turn off the water and disconnect the lines. The slip joint design allows users to adjust the jaw size without having to open the pliers all the way. The handles are specially designed to provide extra grip and give users the precision needed to ensure their connections are secure.

Essential Tools for Pipe Repair

For anyone with plumbing problems, having the essential tools in hand is of utmost importance. From a wrench and snake to a plunger, these tools will make addressing plumbing issues far easier and oftentimes save you from making a service call. 

It can be a daunting task to tackle a pipe repair but with the right understanding and proper equipment, you can successfully complete the job. Don’t wait until there’s a big problem – get the right plumbing gear now and avoid the headache!

For any other home improvement or house questions, keep browsing our blog!