Plumbing Projects Mades Simple
Plumbing issues can range from quick fixes to complex problems that require the right tools and experience.This page will help you understand common plumbing projects, what’s realistic to handle yourself, and when it’s time to bring in a professional—so you can move forward with confidence.
Start Here
Not all plumbing projects are the same. Some are simple fixes you can handle with a few basic tools, while others involve hidden risks that can quickly lead to bigger problems if done incorrectly.This page is designed to help you understand the difference. As you explore the guides below, you’ll get a clearer sense of what each project involves, what tools and experience are required, and whether it’s something you can take on yourself—or something better left to a pro.
Know Your Limits
Some seemingly simple plumbing projects require more time, tools, planning or experience than most homeowners expect. Before you dive in, it helps to understand where your project falls. Throughout our guides section you will see each project guide with a traffic light tag to help you quickly identify projects that are DIY-Friendly (Green), More Involved (Yellow), and Best left to a Pro (Red).
DIY-Friendly
Great for most homeowners with basic tools, a little time and average physical strength - example
More Involved
These projects require more effort, strength, the right tools, and finer attention to detail
Best left to a Pro
Mistakes here can cost you time and money, cause injury, or lead to larger unintended issues
Featured Guide
Not sure where your project fall? Start here
What you can DIY vs when to call a Pro for plumbing projects
Understand the most common plumbing projects and what is required to complete them from a time perspective, effort perspective and tools required.
Plumbing Guides
Start with the type of plumbing project or maintenance task you're working on.
Select a guide and learn How To:
Fix a running toilet
A running toilet is one of the most common (and fixable) plumbing issues. Learn what causes it and how to stop it quickly using a few basic tools, and when to call for help.
Unclog a drain
Slow or clogged drains are frustrating, but many can be cleared without calling a plumber. This guide walks you through simple methods that work—and what to do when they don’t.
Replace a faucet
Replacing a faucet can upgrade your space and/or repair leaks, but, requires the right tools and attention to detail. Understand what’s involved before you get started.
Replace a toilet
Replacing a toilet is manageable for some homeowners, but small mistakes can lead to leaks or long-term issues. Here’s what you need to know before taking it on.
Shut off the water main
Knowing how to quickly shut off your water can prevent major damage in an emergency. Learn where to find your shutoff valves and how to use them.
Pro Plumbing Projects
Some plumbing issues go beyond a simple fix and can cause serious damage if handled incorrectly. Learn which jobs are pro jobs.
Tools for Plumbing Projects
The tools required for plumbing projects can vary depending on the complexity of the job. While many basic repairs can be handled with a small set of common tools, more involved work may require specialized equipment and experience. Understanding what tools are needed ahead of time can help you decide whether a project is a good DIY opportunity or something better left to a professional.
Basic Plumbing tools
These are the basic tools most needed for common plumbing fixes like clogs, minor leaks, and simple replacements. If you’re comfortable using these, many small plumbing issues are manageable on your own.
• Plunger
• Adjustable Wrench (crescent wrench)
• Channel lock pliers
• 5 gallon Bucket
• Teflon (plumber's) tape
• Utility Knife
• Screwdriver (phillips & slotted)
• Hammer
• Small Pipe Wrench
Advanced Plumbing tools
These tools are used for more involved plumbing projects like replacing fixtures or working with piping. They require a better understanding of how plumbing systems work and leave less room for error.
• Large Pipe Wrench
• Basin Wrench
• Tubing Cutter - (copper and pvc)
• Closet Auger (toilet snake)
• Propane Torch (for soldering copper)
• Pipe Thread Sealant
• Drain Auger (handheld snake)
• Deburring Tool
• Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
Pro Plumbing tools
These tools are typically used by licensed professionals for complex repairs, diagnostics, and system-level work. If your project requires this level of equipment, it’s usually a sign that it’s time to call in a pro.
• Motorized Drain Snake
• Hydro jetting equipment
• Pipe Inspection Camera
• PEX crimping/expansion tools
• Soldering Kit (advanced use)
• Pipe Threading Machine
• Pipe Freezing Kit
• Advanced Leak Detection Equipment
• PEX Expansion Tool System
*Having access to a tool does not always make a project DIY-friendly. Safety, terrain, physical demands, and the risk of hidden damage still matter.
Not sure if this is a DIY project?
If you’re unsure how far to take an outdoor project yourself, GNN can help you think it through and connect you with the right help when needed.