The plumber Steve Bowton shows Bob how to sweat a joint in copper plumbing. First he cleans the pipes with an emery cloth. Then he explains that plumbers no longer use lead solder and instead use a tin and antimony mixture to protect homeowners from lead poisoning. Then he puts flux on the pipes and the fittings. Places the fixture on the pipes and levels it, then solders the joints. The flux helps draw the solder into the space.

Bob explains how remodeling a basement presents owners with options they didn't realize they had. In the Melrose home project, a space previously used as a little paint closet was converted to house a half bathroom that is badly needed in a home with only one bathroom for its four members. The area was reframed and the staircase restructured to accommodate the room. Al Leone of Plumbers Union Local Number 12 installed the new piping using PEX flexible tubing. Electricians were then called in to rewire the area. Electrician John Schiavone installed the wires, circuits, switches, and outlets.

Bob reviews the work done on the existing plumbing once all the waterproofing and flood-prevention measures are put in place in the basement. Al Leone of Leone Plumbing Corp. first cut the pipes into sections for easy removal. The cast iron pipe was cut and removed using a special pipe cutter. Bob explains that Leone is a union contractor who decided to go into business for himself. His helper, Matthew Orlando, is going through the apprentice training program through the Plumber and Gas Fitters Local Union Number 12 in Boston. The chapter spends $4,500 a year to put each apprentice through a thorough five-year training program where they spend two nights per week learning about everything from bathrooms to hospital gas work. Leone demonstrates some of the specialized work he does to install the pipe, including using oakum, a joint runner, and poured hot lead to form a joint seal. Leone then shows how some of the other seals are put in place in the pipe.

Bob tours the upstairs master bath with an eye towards the space's luxury appointments, including the double vanity fixtures, granite countertop, and Wellborn cabinets. Plumber Dave DuVerger is installing a trim package to finish off the spacious shower. The shower features three showerheads in a nearly six-by-six foot enclosure. To supply enough water pressure, these are built on a plumbing loop with a 3/4-inch supply line.

…is a decision you will be happy with for many years to come. You know you can count on Sears to complete your home improvement project with high quality materials, workmanship and installation. And by calling Sears you know you don’t have to worry…

…is a decision you will be happy with for many years to come. You know you can count on Sears to complete your home improvement project with high quality materials, workmanship and installation. And by calling Sears you know you don’t have to…

If you are looking to save some money on a home improvement project this year, consider starting with those old windows. A new federal tax credit can put 30% of what you spend on new energy…

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