Category: Plumbing - Topic: Working With Copper Pipe
Copper pipe is commonly available in two forms either rigid or flexible tubing.
Rigid pipe is usually installed in new structures, but is a harder install than
soft, flexible copper pipe.
For repair work, flexible copper pipe is the easier of the two to work with
since it can be run around corners without connections.
City codes determine which type of copper tubing is to be used in homes, but the
most common type is the "L" medium-walled thickness.
Copper can be cut with a hacksaw or a copper tube cutter- for a squarer cut
go with the tube cutter. Sweating a copper pipe join is best learned by watching and
being properly instructed by a plumbing expert. There are some things to consider
when sweating copper joints: clean the pipe and fittings
with a 4-in-1 or other appropriate tool the correct size for your pipe.
Always use soldering paste or flux and a flux brush or tooth brush
to spread evenly, and apply to the pipe and fittings.
A propane torch is most often used to sweat copper pipe. Ask
an expert for the best tips on sweating copper pipe and fittings.