Got stuck on a big install last month because the inspector was booked solid for a week. Our pipes were all ready to go, but we couldn't touch anything until he signed off. It threw our schedule way off and the foreman was not happy. What do you guys do to plan around inspection delays? I feel like there's gotta be a better way.
Had a fitting fail from a tiny ridge. A quick file pass fixes it for good.
I used to believe that true craftsmanship meant fabricating every joint from scratch on the job. Honestly, I saw pre-fabricated spools as a crutch for those who couldn't measure right. Tbh, my view flipped during a hospital renovation where space was brutally tight. We used a pre-fab section for a main chase, and it dropped in perfectly in minutes. The custom bends we attempted paled in comparison for accuracy. Now, I advocate for smart pre-planning with prefab where tolerances are critical. It just makes the whole operation smoother and more reliable.
I always thought traditional copper runs were the only way to go for reliability... until a client's basement flooded and we had to re-pipe everything. Watching the pipefitters install a PEX manifold system was eye-opening; the flexibility and ease of repairs were incredible. Now I see how it can save time and reduce future headaches, especially in tight spaces. Honestly, I was stubborn about the old methods, but this experience totally shifted my perspective. It's made me appreciate how trade innovations can really improve outcomes.