For a novice plumber - basic rules and some tips

For a year and three months now I have been filling its pages with articles, trying to share only relevant and necessary information; no one will read rubbish. There are some difficulties with this; they usually lie in the fact that someone has already covered a similar issue on the Internet. After all, there are tons of websites, forums and blogs. But not everyone is able to convey information in an accessible, understandable language; the topic is very specific and unfamiliar to many.

At the end of each of my articles, I sign with a request to add additions or questions to the comments if anyone has any during the study. But it’s very rare that anyone decides to do this. I appeal by analyzing blog traffic statistics, and the statistics are as follows - from 150 to 200 people per day. And these have been friends for six months now.

That is, the visitor came, studied, and went ahead to implement the knowledge in reality. How can we share the results of our efforts with others, huh? Or is no one doing anything? Is everything still for educational purposes? Or is there still a real benefit from my typing on the keys at night?

I convince myself that I have explained everything fully. But I know that there is such a BUT, this is when a person is shy, afraid of looking funny in matters that are obvious to another. I ask such visitors not to give complexes, this is what the Santekhscript was created for - to help a beginner. Ask anyone what is “painful”; almost every apartment has problems with plumbing.

While you were working in housing and communal services, you go to one tenant on an application, and at the entrance another already greets you with the words - “Please come to me later, help me with solving this or that issue.” The problems are different, both in terms of systems - plumbing, sewerage, heating, and in terms of equipment - toilets, faucets, meters, filters, drains, overflows, taps, axlebox taps, tanks. In short, I know from practice that a huge number of people have sanitary conditions that leave much to be desired. Bring everything to mind, if you don’t know how, ask. And I won’t have any problems choosing a topic to write about. I don’t promise that there will be a separate article for each issue, but I will try to help to the best of my competence. In a word, I will help as much as I can.

And today I decided to take upon myself the responsibility of determining what might interest you, and I will give 23 pieces of advice, so to speak, to an “amateur plumber.” Listen, apply if possible, you will succeed. For convenience, I will divide them into several sections; I understand that everyone has their own “painful problem”.

• Plumbing equipment
• Water pipes
• Sewerage

I will touch upon recommendations for both repair and installation; if there are detailed articles on the pages of my blog, I will insert links, following which you can study the solution to the problem in more detail. So let's go:

Which plumbing company is better to choose?

Each manufacturer that produces plumbing products offers customers standard and unique models. Therefore, it is easy to get confused in the variety available on the market. Products often experience significant stress, which is why emphasis is placed on quality and durability. There are a number of developers who have proven themselves to be the best and are also in demand among buyers. Their equipment is of high quality, and the likelihood of buying defective sanitaryware is low. The most famous among them:

• Grohe . A brand from Germany, known and popular in many countries. When manufacturing products, the manufacturer focuses on quality and reliability. Users also appreciate products from this brand for their convenient use.
• Ideal Standard . Products from a developer from Germany are produced directly only in Europe. The company offers plumbing products for all users. Buyers note the convenience during use.
• Roca . The developer from Spain produces products in collections. The company guarantees good quality, which will allow the equipment to serve for a long time. The equipment is distinguished by its convenient shapes, making their placement comfortable.
• Blanco . Equipment from a company from Germany is distinguished by its excellent quality and long service life. Users highlight the bright design and reliability of the products.
• Cersanit . Polish developer producing sanitary products and bathroom furniture. Users note good quality and service life. The company constantly monitors the sanitaryware manufacturing process.
• Sanita Luxe . One of the leading brands of domestic plumbing. Offers customers reliable products that, in their technical and stylistic parameters, will correspond to foreign analogues.
• Santek . A Russian developer that produces high-quality and environmentally friendly equipment that meets international standards. Consumers highlight the ease of maintenance and reliability of the devices.
• Triton . The main direction of production is the production of acrylic bathtubs and shower cabins. Only domestic raw materials are used in production, which will significantly affect the cost.
• Arcus . Manufacturer from China, which produces reliable shower cabins, sinks and toilets. For a long time, the company has been in a leading position in its segment due to the use of the latest technologies.
• Eago . Recognized as the largest developer of plumbing products in China. The main profile is the production of shower boxes and acrylic bathtubs. To produce products, Eago uses modern German technology, which will allow it to achieve high quality.
• GrandeHome . The company focuses directly on the production of premium shower cabins and their accessories. The products are distinguished by a bright design, which is designed for the European market.

Each of the manufacturers is considered a prominent representative in its segment and produces high-quality plumbing fixtures. Considering that the companies reviewed have positive reviews, the user can easily select reliable plumbing products.

Toilets

The toilet is a plumbing fixture that no home can do without. It should be convenient for all residents.

Recommended reading: Installing plumbing in the bathroom

Experts advise purchasing toilets with a circular flush.

Modern toilets are divided into two types - floor-mounted and wall-hung. Floor-standing products are most often installed in bathrooms, but wall-hung products are recommended for installation in small rooms, as they save great space.

Before installing a wall-hung toilet installation, you should study all its features.

Materials from which toilets are made:

1. Cast iron. It is resistant to corrosion and has an unlimited service life, however, such toilets have impressive dimensions and heavy weight, as a result of which such models are not common on the plumbing market.
2. Plastic. The cheapest toilets with a short service life. Usually used in utility rooms.
3. Ceramics. The most common material. Typically these are white products coated with special enamel. They have a low price.
4. Porcelain. Externally, the products are similar to ceramic products, but due to them they have greater strength and durability.
5. Steel. They have a long service life and good strength. Often such toilets are used in public places. The price of such plumbing equipment is higher than the cost of the previously described models.

It is important to know that enamel tends to wear out quickly, as a result of which ceramics have direct contact with water, which leads to gradual destruction of the material.

Rating of sanitary ware manufacturers

Since there are a large number of plumbing equipment available in the market, it becomes difficult to choose the right one. To make the task easier, a rating of plumbing manufacturers was compiled. Companies were selected taking into account the opinions of experts, consumers, and testing. The emphasis is placed on the following parameters:

• Material;
• Stability of the structure;
• Ease of installation;
• Design;
• Mounting method;
• Functional;
• Assembly features.

Since there are so many plumbing products, a rating was created that included the best manufacturers of plumbing fixtures. The rating includes devices that differ in functionality, material, and other parameters.

The best faucets

Installation and fastening

Bath installation

You can install plumbing in your home yourself. First, determine the location of each part in the room. The bathtub and sink are installed next to the water supply risers. If the area allows, the structure is placed in the middle of the room.

The bathtub is placed on legs. Steel and acrylic products are filled with polyurethane foam for reliability or a stand is used. They are attached to the wall and the seams are filled with sealant.

The sink is mounted on a stand or on a cabinet. The mortise model is built into the countertop.

Using flexible hoses, the devices are connected to the water supply system. Install mixers and siphons according to the instructions.

The best Russian manufacturers of sanitary ware

Among Russian companies producing sanitary products, the ranking also includes foreign brands that have moved production here. The equipment of these companies stands out for its price and quality, which will allow it to become an alternative to faucets and sinks from Europe. They are often bought by young families for home renovations. When comparing 8 models, it was determined which plumbing fixtures are better. The rating of Russian sanitary ware manufacturers includes 3 of them.

Sanita Luxe

One of the best Russian concerns that produce plumbing products. Consumers and specialists can choose good quality plumbing fixtures, which in terms of technical and design indicators will not be inferior to foreign analogues.

Under the Sanita brand, the plant produces a wide range of home appliances: toilets, sinks, bathroom furniture, urinals, bidets. Appliances from the Sanita brand are the absolute leaders among Russian plumbing products. This is due to the quality, whiteness and bright style of Sanita products. Sanita toilets are manufactured using 2 methods: using molds made of gypsum and polymers or using innovative casting technology. The sanitary ware combines convenient use, bright style and good quality.

Advantages

• Price parameters;
• Materials;
• Bright design;
• Quality;
• Guarantee period;
• Good equipment.

Flaws

• Limited assortment.

Users note the good quality of the model line and a long warranty. The equipment operates silently and there are no leaks. They are often compared with Ledeme sanitary ware from the same country of origin.

Santek

Plumbing fixtures of the Santek brand have foreign fittings with keys and seats made of reliable plastic. The model line contains devices that have universal installation. The company's catalogs have recently included bathtubs that are made of acrylic, equipped with reliable components and vary in shape and parameters.

In the model line of the Santek brand you can find products of various types, with different styles. The company's toilets are wall-hung and compact, and are represented by familiar floor-standing products. They have a horizontal or vertical outlet, straight or oblique outlet. Appliances from a well-known brand are made from good quality ceramics and sanitary ware.

Advantages

• Materials;
• Convenient use;
• Price parameters;
• Easy to care for;
• Quality.

Flaws

• Limitations in design.

Most people who buy Santek plumbing entrust the installation of devices to specialists. Those who installed the toilet themselves later complained about leaks and other defects in the work.

Triton

Sanitary ware manufacturer Triton is a Russian developer of acrylic bathtubs, bathroom furniture, shower cabins, and trays. Only domestic raw materials are used in production. This has a significant impact on price indicators, but not on quality indicators. High quality requirements and excellent technical parameters have made the brand one of the leaders in the CIS market. All plumbing fixtures from a Russian company are manufactured using a special technology, which gives some advantages over foreign analogues. Triton brand equipment is responsible for time-tested quality.

Advantages

• Guarantee period;
• Durability;
• Easy to care for;
• Ease of installation;
• Bright design.

Flaws

• Fastenings in a number of models are of poor quality.

Users note the bright and organic design and impressive lineup. The emphasis is on the convenient use of plumbing products.

Sinks

When choosing a sink, special attention should be paid to the cutout for the faucet. The variety of types of sinks is similar to the variety of faucet sets: they need to match each other.

When renovating a small bathroom, you should choose a corner or built-in sink model. Based on the type of fastening, sinks are divided into:

1. Wall-mounted – mounted on the wall with screws. Convenient because there is space under the sink that can be used for other purposes.
2. Overheads – attached to the countertop, which allows you to create an additional surface for various purposes.
3. Curly - usually used to create original interiors.
4. Cascade - a modern design that implies the complete absence of a crane.
5. A tulip is a structure consisting of a bowl and a stand that hides the unsightly appearance of water pipes.

Washbasins and sink cabinets are made from different materials:

• acrylic products of elegant shape that do not require complex care;
• glass sinks are distinguished by their original shapes. An additional set of glass items for the bathroom is purchased;
• marble products are the most expensive of those presented and are usually installed in bathrooms with luxury interiors;
• ceramic sinks are very popular due to their versatility;
• steel ones are strong and durable and have a special coating. Typically used in the kitchen;

Often, special cabinets for sinks are purchased, which are used to store household chemicals.

The best Chinese sanitary ware manufacturers

Plumbing fixtures from China have become popular in the market due to the low prices of goods and good quality. It is believed that you can save money on sanitary ware from China during renovation, but among the variety of models there are premium products. When comparing 8 models, it was determined which technique is better. The review included 3 of them.

Arcus

A brand from China that produces showers, sinks, toilets, and bidets of good quality. The emphasis should be on shower stalls, where the best materials are used. They are equipped with durable rollers and components, 0.5 cm thick impact-resistant glass, 0.4 cm ABS plastic, and durable aluminum profiles. To provide greater rigidity, the bases under the shower stall and corner shower structures are made from 4-ply fiberglass.

The manufacturer pays special attention to the details and convenience of the sanitary products they produce, which is why they almost always receive positive feedback from customers. Regarding price indicators, they are one of the most competitive in the domestic market. At the same time, the equipment will meet high international quality standards, which is why it is very popular outside of Russia.

Advantages

• Convenient use;
• Durability of use;
• Bright design;
• Good quality;
• Reliability.

Flaws

• It is not always easy to find a suitable model.

Users note the originality of the design and ease of installation. Based on reviews, the company offers a significant selection of sanitary ware and shower enclosures.

Eago

The Eago brand is considered one of the largest manufacturers of sanitary equipment in China. The brand mainly produces shower cabins and hydromassage bathtubs made of acrylic. To produce its products, the manufacturer uses only modern German technology, impact-resistant glass, aluminum base, acrylic, which is why the quality of plumbing is achieved.

Most models of hydromassage bathtubs and shower boxes are equipped with modern digital control, which is fully consistent with new trends. The brand's model line includes toilets, bidets, sinks and a variety of additional accessories. In terms of price, plumbing fixtures are affordable, which is why they are in great demand in the local and Russian markets.

Advantages

• Convenient use;
• Good functionality;
• Durability;
• Bright design;
• Suitability for repair.

Flaws

• A number of models are not ergonomic.

Based on reviews, the product is a good combination of price and quality. It is noted that installation is difficult, so it is better to contact a specialist for installation.

Grande Home

A well-known brand from China that focuses directly on the production of premium shower boxes and their components. The equipment has a bright design and is intended only for the European and Russian markets. Due to the wide range of shower cabins of various modifications, the brand maintains a leading position in its segment.

The design of the plumbing fixtures uses impact-resistant glass, good quality acrylic and a durable aluminum base. It will be very difficult to break or damage glass that is strengthened with laminated special film. A number of elements of shower boxes are made from natural wood, which adds sophistication and makes the plumbing more environmentally friendly. Design is the strength of the brand, and a group of experts works on it.

Advantages

• Bright design;
• Convenient use;
• A good combination of price and quality in this segment;
• Versatility;
• Smooth forms of models.

Flaws

• There are many fakes on the market;
• Difficult installation.

Based on reviews, users note that the plumbing fixtures are made of impact-resistant glass, acrylic and aluminum. A wide model line will allow you to make a choice based on the user’s request.

Types of breakdowns

Over time, any plumbing fixture breaks down. Chips and scratches appear on the surface of the bathtub or sink, and the enamel deteriorates. Such problems can be eliminated using a special product, glue, acrylic. Defects are cleaned, the surface is degreased, and a layer of acrylic is applied.

Mixers and taps are repaired in case of problems. In case of leaks, the gaskets are changed, and a new valve axle is installed in the valve taps. If the model has an aerator, remove the filter and rinse it under running water. The ceramic cartridge is completely replaced.

Modern plumbing is distinguished by functionality, reliability, and quality. Correctly selected models will become a real decoration of any room.

Which manufacturer's plumbing is better to choose?

It is difficult to answer the question of which plumbing company is better. The choice of plumbing equipment will fully depend on functionality, design solutions and finances. Taking these parameters into account, a brand is chosen. An important selection criterion will be the material of the sanitary ware. The equipment selected is from those developers who provide a warranty card and have real service in the region.

Among all companies, experts focus on the following nominees:

• Roca – bright design and quality of plumbing for the home;
• Sanita Luxe - durable and durable equipment from a brand from Russia;
• Arcus is a durable technology from developers from China.
• Cersanit – good quality, wide range for little money.

The review included the best manufacturers of plumbing fixtures. Each product is purchased depending on the specific consumer request. And the rating will significantly save time searching for reliable information about each participant.

Criterias of choice

First of all, the level of comfort and reliability is taken into account. What is important is the combination of details, the unity of style and image.

Has the meaning:

• what material are the products made of;
• installation and connection methods;
• ease of use and care.

The plumbing fixtures are selected to be of high quality and durable.

When purchasing, take into account the manufacturer's brand: the more famous the brand, the more reliable the product. Check if there is a warranty on the product. They look at the appearance of the plumbing fixtures to ensure there are no chips or defects. The coating should be smooth and beautiful.

Pipes

Pipes are required in any plumbing premises, as they are necessary for communication systems. They are made from the following materials:

1. Metal. Stainless steel pipes are very rarely used in bathrooms: their installation requires professional skills and the use of certain tools. Due to the properties of the material, hiding such pipes in walls is prohibited.
2. Metal-plastic pipes are connected with special nuts that require frequent checking. It is not recommended to hide it in walls.
3. Polypropylene. The best option for the bathroom. Such pipes are hidden in the walls. The advantages include their durability and wear resistance.

Submitting concept

Whatever you place in your bathroom - sink, bathtub, toilet or shower - everything should be in harmony, not a single element should fall out of the overall concept. The bathroom is the same room that requires a thoughtful approach combined with an original design solution. It’s not for nothing that interior designers are asked to design bathrooms separately. This is the place where you can relax and soak in the streams of water. The most ideal option is if you purchase all the plumbing equipment at one time and in one place. Then you can select all the details in combination with each other. When choosing plumbing fixtures, be sure to consider the materials from which it is made and take into account their features. Easy-to-use and hygienic sanitary products are usually in favor.

Often people are faced with a choice - what is better to buy - a shower cabin or a bathtub? Here you need to rely on your desires, lifestyle and age. If you are an energetic person who saves time on taking water procedures, then you can opt for a shower cabin. It takes up less space than a bathtub and allows you to place more furniture. However, if you like to soak in foamy water without haste and maybe even with pleasant music, then the choice in favor of a bath is obvious. All this is quite easy to determine if you live alone. However, if besides you, someone else lives in the apartment, or even a whole family, you need to take into account the opinion of each of its members.

Start plumbing work by dismantling old plumbing and water supply systems

Dismantling old plumbing is not a difficult process, but it is a responsible one. When dismantling old apartments, constantly monitor the condition of pipes and valves. When removing old plumbing, there is a high probability of tearing off a worn-out valve or damaging an old rusty pipe.

Advice: If you decide to seriously update your old plumbing, start the repair by replacing the shut-off taps (valves) installed on the inlet water pipes. True, in this case you will have to communicate with local operating organizations. But a quiet life in the future is worth it.

Caring for plumbing must be safe

It is better to use less caustic cleaning products to maintain cleanliness. Before purchasing, study their composition: you can always find information about it on the packaging label. Choose gentle products, even if they are less effective and you will have to spend more effort to get the desired result. But you will protect yourself and your household from contact with chemical compounds hazardous to health and the risk of allergic reactions.

When using various products and preparations when caring for plumbing fixtures, do not forget about the rules of personal safety! Wear rubber gloves, an apron and safety glasses to protect your health. Use products as intended to avoid the risk of damaging the appearance of sanitary fixtures, for example, spoiling the enamel of the bathtub or depriving the shine of chrome parts. Even if you use the cleaning product at the right time, try to avoid overdosing it.

Replacing heating batteries (heating radiators)

Having started communicating with the operational services, it is worth continuing and replacing, if desired, of course, the heating batteries. This work involves disconnecting the heating water supply in your battery riser. But modern heating radiators, having high heat output and low heat loss, will undoubtedly increase the comfort of your apartment.

Work on replacing heating radiators should be divided into two stages.

Stage 1. Dismantling of old batteries and the so-called new “piping” of water pipes. During this work, threads are cut on old pipes and new shut-off valves are installed. If necessary, the pipes are extended to transport the radiators themselves. These jobs may require welding, but I haven't seen that in a long time. They always make do with a “grinder” for cutting pipes and a thread cutting tool.

Stage 2. Clean installation of new heating radiators should be done after all dirty finishing work has been completed, before laying a new covering on the floor and wallpapering the walls.