Workmanlike quality

Post Reply | Watch this Post

I'm not a plumber but have done some soldering of many things. It probably is possible that a burr on the outside of copper tube could either scratch the inside of a fitting or wedge between the tube and fitting to create a gap which would cause a leak. However, I think that since you really do have to remove the oxide layer to get a good bond, deburring is just part of this job.

Again, it is probably possible for a burr to break loose and cut a faucet seat or washer but I think that a possible restriction, site for cavitation or mineral build-up to begin, or just a good way to prevent getting cut when handling the tube with the sharp edge are other reasons.

Finally, I think that to be respected for the job you do, you have to do the job in as workmanlike manner as possible and show that you care about the quality of your work. This would seem to include deburring.

It's the same with some electrical jobs. You can just remove the insulation from a wire and stick that in the back of an outlet or switch. I have never seen a pro that I respected do it that way. They attach the wire to the screw on the side. Why not use the better of the possible ways to do things?

Henry in MI