411homerepair.com

Copper Tubing Pipework

by Guest Post on Jan 5, 2010

There are many different types of materials used in plumbing systems in the home. Lead is no longer used even though a large number of older houses still have a lead rising main. If there are any other lead pipes still being used in the plumbing system these should be replaced.

The most widely used material is copper tubing, it is lightweight, easy to solder, can be easily bent and can be used on both hot and cold water systems.

Copper tubing for use in domestic systems comes in three different sizes, these are 15mm, 22mm and 28mm. In older properties the original copper pipework will be imperial, this came in 1/2", 3/4" and 1". Although the difference in sizes seems obvious, metric pipework is measured externally while imperial pipework was measured internally, this makes the differences between the equivalent metric and imperial pipework very small.

When using soldered fittings to join imperial and metric pipework an adaptor must be used as an exact fit is necessary. The use of compression fittings is a bit more tolerable and an adaptor is not necessary, even though it is wise to buy imperial size olives for the imperial pipe.

REMINDER: Take care when using hand tools, hacksaws and cutting tools can be dangerous.

Measure Twice

Hack thisCarefully measure the length of pipe needed, make allowances for the pipe to push fully inside the fitting. To make sure of the correct length, measure the distance from the edge of the fitting to the internal stop and add this amount to the cutting position.

The cut must be square so if using a hacksaw wrap a piece of paper around the pipe to give a straight edge. Also, consider the pipe master soldering tool for larger projects.

Cut Once

Pipe cutterTo make sure the cut is perfectly square use a pipe cutter, align the cutting wheel with your pencil mark and tighten the rollers until the pipe is clamped. Rotate the pipe cutter around the pipe and tighten the rollers each revolution to slowly increase the cutting depth.

Sizes

Mini pipe cutter Pipe cutters come in different shapes and sizes, use a mini pipe cutter for working in awkward areas such as close to a skirting board or wall.

The Deburring

Deburr pipe Pipe cutters give a clean cut on the outside of the pipe, but the inside of the pipe will still need deburring. Some pipe cutters come with a deburring tool which is used to remove the internal burr. If you don't have a deburring tool use a round file to clean the inside of the pipe.

Dirty or Clean?

Clean pipe wirewool Clean the end of the cut pipe with wire wool, this makes sure there is no dirt that could prevent either a solder or a compression fitting from producing a perfect seal.

Done!

Once the pipe is clean and free from dirt and burrs the fitting or joint can be assembled.

Latest Articles

Troubleshooting Excess Water in Your HVAC Secondary Condensate Drain Pan

When maintaining your air conditioning system, it is easy to overlook the condensate drain pan - until excess water starts pooling in places where...

on Jan 12, 2025

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): A Beginners Guide

By combining the advantages of stock market and real estate investing, Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REITs, offer an alluring investment...

on Dec 19, 2024

Global Real Estate Trends: What’s Driving Property Investments This Year?

For investors hoping to optimize returns in the ever-changing world of real estate, knowing current trends is not merely a matter of staying...

on Dec 19, 2024

5 Reasons to Use Gutter Cleaning Services

Gutters protect your home from water damage by directing rainwater away from your roof, walls, and foundation. However, they often required regular...

on Nov 14, 2024

Before You Sign: How Home Inspections Identify Hidden Hazards in Your Future Home

Buying a home is exciting, but hidden dangers can turn that dream into a nightmare if not addressed early on. Beyond what is visible during a...

on Oct 18, 2024

Actions

More DIY Articles

DIY Repair Skills will Save You Cash

If you own your home, you know repairs can become expensive quickly. Little things like clogged drains, broken door hinges, wholes in the walls,...

Improvements / Remodeling

Great Points to Know About the Convection Microwave

When you hear the term ‘convection microwave,’ you may think you heard wrong. After all, most people have heard of a microwave oven, and most...

Appliance / Repair

Getting a Good Price on Your Next Cooktop

Shopping for cooktops can be quite an endeavor; however, with some diligent work, you can find great cooktops that can fit your budget. Getting a...

Appliance / Repair

How to Keep a New Business Afloat at Home

Without a doubt, running a new business in a competitive industry can seem like a harrowing prospect for the uninitiated. The ironic part is that...

Real Estate / Finance

8 Point Miter Saw Buying Guide

A miter saw is a functional tool that lets you cut through numerous angles. It is a must-have item for woodworkers, carpenters, and anyone in the...

Tools / Woodworking

Contact Us | Submit Article | 411homerepair © 2025