I have to be honest with you. I wasn't going to share this one. It was just too good. What if I let this cat out of the bag and everybody and their grandmother started cashing in on it? What then? But then I figured, what the hell? It's not like I do a lot of work these days and spend a lot of time on this one. Sure, I intend to dabble a bit, but full time? No way in hell. I'd much rather be playing video games and Magic the Gathering. So for the rest of us working stiffs, this one's for you.

4) You will need to have on hand reliable tape, small gas torch, solder, flux, plumbing sandpaper, pipe cutter, gas tape (to seal gas line) and maybe some pipe glue. Ask the sales person at the hardware store for a more defined list.

Visually water line repair examine the frozen pipe for signs of damage including cracks holes or breaks. Begin your quest in the areas that are located closest to cold area such as the outer walls and crawl spaces. The holes can be as tiny as a pinprick, so inspect the pipe closely.



After you have the stems out you should be able to find the washer on the "inside" end. If it is nicked, torn or brittle it is likely the cause of your drip. Even if it looks brand new, go ahead and replace it. You've already come this far. You can get replacement washers at almost any hardware store. Sometimes you may want to replace the whole stem, especially if the handle end is stripped out. It's best to just take the stem with you to the store and see if you can match it up. Most Do It Yourself stores have replacement stems for many popular brands. If your valve has a center diverter valve to switch the waterfrom the tub spout to the shower head the same process applies. Many times it is easier to replace the diverter stem than to repair it. This really depends on the design of the stem.

If you do experience a broken pipe, you must act quickly to prevent further water damage to your home or business. The first thing you must do is shut off the water immediately. Know where the water shut off valve is located and make sure all members of the household are aware of its location and how to shut it off.

The water line repair most likely damaged your electrical outlets and lighting fixtures. Have a qualified electrician come in to evaluate and repair the electrical.

The work area should always be clean and free of trash and clutter. The cleaner and less clutter there is in a Plumbers' work area, the better able a plumber will be to make sure that his job goes as smoothly as possible.

Find out if the plumber works on a 24 hour basis and, if so, what are the extra charges involved. More important than the costs however are the person's trustworthiness and reputation. After all, he or she will be in your home and around your possessions. You should feel comfortable with their presence and confident that they are honest.