I'm trying to fit 2 new isolation valves to install my new sink vanity unit but there seems to be at least 3 or 4 layers of paint on the pipes. Any tips/tricks to remove the paint as I do not have a blow torch which I guess might work? Thanks
Put the isolation valve on loosely without the olive, tap gently with a hammer, the valve will slide down and the nut will scrape the paint off. Done it in my own home and it worked a treat.
Rotary cutters often remove enough paint and then you can tap the fitting gently as described. Usually works. If not get a blowlamp - messy and smelly though.
pump pliers, grip the pipe loosely and turn to and fro, it will loosen the paint and give a start to the sandpapering method.
thanks for the replies. I scraped a a fair but off, enough so i could get the nut and olive on. I have tightened it up as much as i just about can but theres a tiny eeny winy leak, is that because of the paint of should i have used pfte tape, or shall i try tighten it even more? thanks
I would recommend you use ptfe. Take the nut off and tape around the olive (the side that slips into the fitting) then tighten on. (do not overtighten this cuts into the ptfe and breaks the seal you have made). Also make sure the fitting has made a full "slip" into the fitting.
Got to disagree with Captain,there is absolutley nothing wrong with using PTFE on any compression joints.
There is nothing actually WRONG with PTFE on olives, and I know some people like it BUT for DIY'ers it is bad advice. They either put too much on, can't get access properly or not enough. A bit of jet blue, LSX or ordinary joint compound is preferable.
Like PTFE,we love it.It stops my eggs sticking to the pan Your advice sucks! I just tried it and got a load of PTFE mixed up with my egg yolk, my solicitor wants to speak to yours.