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Hardware Store Plumbing Tools

Lumber and galvanized irons are not the only items available in a hardware store. There are a variety of other items sold in hardware stores that are essential in construction and maintenance of buildings and houses such as plumbing tools.

In different areas of the house where plumbing is an integral part, there are also appropriate tools and equipments which a professional plumber or even a DIY homeowner could use to efficiently perform a variety of plumbing tasks.

In sinks, tubs and showers, here are some of the tools that prove to be useful:

Cup plunger, a commonly used plunger is a rubber cup attached to a wooden handle that gives a forceful burst of water to clear and unclog sinks, tubs and showers. Shower Valve Socket Wrench is used to remove and install shower tub fittings and nuts. It features an extra deep socket fitting around the stem in hard to reach areas. Faucet Seat Wrench to take out and replace the faucet body valve seat in compression faucets which are most of the times found in older homes. Basin Wrench to tighten and loosen the nuts under a sink holding the faucet in place or to secure connections in deeply recessed places. Basin wrench may also be called as sink wrench. Adjustable wrenches offer the chance to change the grip on the wrench in performing different jobs while a fixed wrench only offers only one type of jaw opening.

Toilets is also another element that needs appropriate tools like:

Socket Set, also known as ratchet set uses separate removable sockets to fit different fitting and fastener sizes like nuts and bolts. Flange plunger is especially shaped to seal toilet holes thus acting like a vacuum that clears toilet clogs.

Pipes is another fundamental element in a plumbing system. Some of the tools used to handle pipes are:

Tubing cutters use a steel wheel to cut pipe precisely for well-fitted joints. A close-quarter mini tube cutter is recommended for tight work spaces. Metal File smooths the pipe edges after cutting for better seal at joints. Hacksaw is a handy tool for cutting metal or plastic pipes and screws not intended for joint connections. Slip Joint Pliers are for grabbing, pulling, twisting, holding, tightening or loosening. Its other names are water pump pliers, tongue and groove pliers. Adjustable Pipe Wrench is used when working on compression fittings. Combination Tool is used in place of wire brushes, to clean the pipes.

Other tools utilized in plumbing that is also available from hardware stores are:

Plumber’s Tape or Putty to close threading, impede leaks at connections and avoid rust on steel pipes. Washers and O-rings to stop dripping compression faucets. Silicone Caulk or Caulk Gun to replace seals around sinks and tubs. Spray Lubricants are used to loosen obstinate nuts and pipe fittings. Putty Knife to apply and remove caulk and toilet wax ring residue.


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