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 welded before because they were trained in the use of plastic pipe; Here is an example: Pvc, Cpvc and pex pipes.
Did this make them bad plumbers?
Not even close. They were really good at their job.
They actually showed me how to install pex pipe without twisting it.
In return, 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 could 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 follow 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 weld
Cut the tube to size– Measure the length of tubing you will need to join your plumbing system. Using a tubing cutter, cut your tubing 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 pipe. Wipe clean to remove any grit or copper residue.
The deburring tool at the end of the tubing cutter helps remove any rough edges that could cause leaks down the road. Using your pipe reamer on the pipe cutter, ream the inside edges of the copper tubing removing any burrs. You want a smooth edge.
clean your accessories using a pipe brush of the proper size for your pipe. To speed up the process, I cut the cleaning brush off the top of the handle and insert it inside my drill.
Increase the speed of your drill and clean out the inner hub of the accessory. If you see dark spots inside the accessory, continue 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 fixture and not take the weld.
Pipe and fittings flux: Using your flux, brush 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 how much solder you’ll need to use to solder your joints. So if you’re soldering 1-inch copper tubing, you’ll need an inch of solder to solder the joints.
Using a torch, heat the pipe and fitting evenly. Begin two inches behind the fitting and slowly heat the pipe and fitting in a back and forth sweeping motion. Make sure the flame is close enough to cover the entire diameter of the pipe.
When the flame turns green, apply solder to the center of the fixture, making sure the solder flows around the center. Wait!There’s one more “secret” step to a perfect solder joint, which means the difference between a hobbyist mess in your fixtures or a professional-looking solder joint every time.
Even if this is your first time soldering copper pipe, I’m going to let you in on a secret step most plumbers won’t tell you.
Because? Good question and here is the answer.
Most plumbers believe that if their solder joints look better than their peers, they are better plumbers. Trust me when I tell you that most plumbers are very patronizing and competitive and actually a good looking solder joint takes time and practice.
Sixth secret step that will improve your welding finishes.
After you’ve filled your center with solder, you’ll see the solder form and begin to dry around the center and may even spill over and over the top of the fixture. This is what you will need to make 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 clean the solder around the center. As you clean, your goal is to try to push as much solder into the center of the fixture. Be careful as the weld, fitting and pipe are very hot.
Once you have completed that part of the task, spray a mist of water onto the pipe and fitting. Then clean the connection and pipe down again. This last step will remove excess flux and dirt from the perfect solder joint.
Simple enough, huh?
Believe it or not, it can take an apprentice a few months to discover this sixth secret step that will improve the finish of your weld. Give it a try and remember that practice makes perfect.
Now you know the 5 steps to a perfect solder joint and the extra 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.