While working for a new construction plumbing company in 2006, out of ten employees, only three of us knew how to solder copper pipes.
The other plumbers never soldered before because they were trained to use plastic pipe; Here is an example: Pvc, Cpvc and pex pipes.
Did this make them bad plumbers?
Not by a long shot. They were really good at their job.
In fact, they showed me how to install pex pipe without twisting it.
In exchange, I taught them how to solder copper pipes.
The result, one of them used the knowledge I taught them, while another one forgot some important steps and caused a major leak.
To prevent leaks that can cause damage to your home, welcome to 5 steps to a perfect solder joint.
With copper it is important not to miss a step or there could be disastrous results. Remember these steps and you’ll be on your way to a perfect solder joint every time.
Here are the 5 steps you need to take to get a perfect solder joint every time.
- Cut the tube to size
- Clean and deburr the pipe
- Clean the inside of the accessory
- flux the outside of the pipe and the inside of the fitting
- Time 2 welding
Cut the tube to size– Measure the length of pipe you will need to join your piping system. Using a pipe cutter, cut your pipe to size (remember to measure twice and cut once).
Clean the pipe: Using a cloth or sandpaper, sand each end of the tube until shiny. Make sure the manufacturer’s oils are out of the pipeline. Wipe clean to remove any sand or copper residue.
The deburring tool at the end of the tube cutter helps remove rough edges that could cause leaks down the road. Using your pipe reamer on the pipe cutter, ream the inner edges of the copper pipe removing any burrs. You want a smooth edge.
clean your accessories using the correct size pipe brush for your pipe. To speed up the process, I cut the cleaning brush off the top of the handle and insert it into my drill.
Increase the speed of your drill and clean the inner hub of the accessory. If you see dark spots inside the accessory, keep cleaning the area until it has been removed.
The dark stain is the oil left over from the cutting and forming process in manufacturing. If this oil is left on it will burn your fitting and not take the solder.
Pipe and Fittings Flux: Using your flux, brush down each end of the pipe and fittings. This will ensure a clean, tinned joint.
Time to sell: Whatever the size of your pipe, that’s the amount of solder you’ll need to use to solder your joints. So if you’re soldering 1-inch and 1-inch copper tubing, you’ll need an inch of solder to solder the joints.
Using a torch, heat the pipe and fitting evenly. Start two inches behind the fitting and slowly heat the pipe and fitting in a back and forth sweeping motion. Make sure your flame is close enough to cover the entire diameter of the pipe.
When the flame turns green, apply the solder to the center of the fixture, making sure the solder flows around the center. Expect!There’s one more “secret” step to a perfect solder joint, which means the difference between a hobbyist’s mess in your fixtures or a professional looking solder joint every time.
Even if this is your first time brazing copper pipe, I’ll show you a secret step that most plumbers won’t tell you.
Why? Good question and here is the answer.
Most plumbers believe that if the solder joints look better than their colleagues, they are a better plumber. Believe me when I tell you that most plumbers are very condescending and competitive, and actually, a good looking solder joint takes time and practice.
Sixth Secret Step That Will Improve Your Weld Finishes.
After you have filled your center with solder, you will see the solder build up and begin to dry around the center and may even overflow and go over the fitting. This is what you will need to do and have on hand.
You will need a damp cloth towel called a cleaning towel or any old rag.
You also need a spray bottle filled with water.
While the solder is still in its molten form, take your damp cloth and wipe the solder around the center. At the same time as cleaning, your goal is to try to push as much of the solder into the center of the fixture. Be careful because the weld, fitting and pipe are very hot.
Once you have completed that part of the task, spray a mist of water on the pipe and fitting. Then clean the connection and pipe down again. This last step will remove excess flux and gunk from the perfect solder joint.
Pretty simple, huh?
Believe it or not, it can take a few months for an apprentice to discover this secret sixth step that will improve the finish of their weld. Try it and remember that practice makes perfect.
Now you know the 5 steps to a perfect solder joint and the additional secret special 6th step that will improve your solder finishes. To retain this new knowledge and make it your own, it’s time to act.
