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Making Connections
When you go to add or replace plumbing lines in a house that’s more than 10 years old, chances are you won’t find new pipes that are the same kind as the old ones. That’s no big deal—hardware stores and home centers carry hundreds of different kinds of transitional fittings to help you make the connections. What is a big deal is that those hundreds of different kinds of pipe fittings don’t all install the same way.
Some fittings need to be soldered; others take just a wrench or pliers. Several require specific crimping tools, and there are newer styles that simply push together. We asked a master plumber how he deals with the ones he encounters the most, but don’t run all over town trying to find the exact fittings we show here. There are usually several suitable solutions using parts available at a local hardware store or home center.
Required Tools
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
- Cinch clamp tool
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe wrench
- Plumbers tape
- Slip joint pliers
- Tube cutter
- Wire brush
- Wrench set
