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Last Revised: 2/28/2025
Does anybody really like spending money on plumbing installations? When faced with two plumbing quotes, many people would be tempted to pick the cheaper option. After all, the work’s getting done either way…right?
At Mattioni, we’ve been in the business for 75+ years – long enough to have seen some terrible plumbing work through the years. It may seem harsh, but it’s true. For example, you can imagine our surprise when we found a thermal expansion tank supported by a workboot (pictured below). We still fix the aftermath of rushed low-quality plumbers who charge low prices for major plumbing installations. Sometimes we’re downright bewildered that poorly installed systems haven’t failed by the time we arrive.
But the thing is, we get it – price matters. Isn’t that why we compare quotes in the first place?
The reality is yes – price does matter, but so does the quality of workmanship. Many homeowners are surprised to hear that it matters more, as cheap plumbing installations tend to become more expensive in the long run. For example, if your plumber doesn’t complete the job right and you need him to come back to your home, you may have to pay him again.
But at that point, do you really want a discount plumber coming back? Or would you rather pay once for a high-quality master plumber that gets the job done right?
In this article, we’ll break down the common plumbing mistakes that lead to costly repairs. We’ll look at how poor workmanship can shorten the lifespan of your fixtures and appliances. After reading this, you’ll understand why investing in quality services saves you time, money, and stress in the long run.
6 Common Plumbing Mistakes by Cheap Plumbers
Here are some of the most common (and totally preventable) plumbing installation issues:
1. Poorly Sealed Water Heater Connections
Your water heater is one of the most critical (and expensive) appliances in your home. If connections aren’t properly sealed – whether it’s the inlet/outlet pipes, the pressure relief valve, or the drain – slow leaks can develop. Over time, this can lead to rust, water damage, and even total system failure. Worse yet, a leaking pressure relief valve could signal dangerous pressure buildup inside the tank. Poorly sealed connections can also cause leaks elsewhere throughout your plumbing system.
Quality vs Price: A master plumber ensures every connection is properly sealed and pressure-tested for long-term reliability. A rushed or careless installation? That’s a hidden leak waiting to cause expensive damage.
2. Incorrect Drainpipe Slope
Ever wonder why your sink, tub, or dishwasher drains slowly despite no visible clog? The problem could be the drainpipe slope. Pipes that aren’t angled steep enough, water and waste won’t flow efficiently, leading to backups and standing water. On the flip side, if the slope is too steep, water drains too quickly, leaving solids (and clogs) behind. For example, if your dishwasher drain hose isn’t installed with the proper high loop or air gap, dirty sink water can even backflow into your dishwasher (yikes).
Quality vs Price: A properly installed plumbing system ensures the correct pipe slope for smooth drainage. A poorly planned installation? That could lead to a constant battle with slow drains and unexpected backups.
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While keeping upfront costs low is paramount, it’s also important to consider the long-term effects of leaving your plumbing installation to chance.
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3. Using the Wrong Materials
Not all pipes play well together. Connecting copper pipes to galvanized steel without proper fittings leads to corrosion, which restricts water flow and eventually causes pipe failure. The wrong materials can also wear out faster, leading to costly repairs. For example, connecting a garbage disposal to a galvanized steel drain line speeds up corrosion, while using corrugated drain hoses instead of smooth PVC can trap food particles and cause frequent clogs.
Quality vs Price: A skilled plumber selects durable, compatible materials for a long-lasting system. A bargain installation? You can expect the possibility of corrosion, blockages, and premature failures.
4. Ignoring Expansion & Contraction
Did you know that your water heater expands every time it heats water? If your home has a closed plumbing system (which prevents water from flowing back into the main supply), that expansion has nowhere to go – causing excessive pressure inside the tank. Over time, this can weaken the tank, leading to leaks, or even a cracked tank. In extreme cases, it can result in catastrophic flooding. The simple fix? A thermal expansion tank absorbs the extra pressure and protects your system.
Quality vs Price: A master plumber knows when installing a thermal expansion tank is needed, preventing unnecessary strain on your water heater. With a subpar installation, your water heater could be under constant stress, leading to early failure – and potentially, major water damage.
5. Improper Venting
Have you ever heard your sink gurgling or noticed a musty smell in your laundry room? That’s likely a venting issue. Without proper ventilation, air can’t escape your pipes, leading to slow drainage and gas backing up into your home. A gurgling sink and smelly washing machine drain are clear signs that venting wasn’t done right.
Quality vs Price: A properly vented system allows for smooth drainage and keeps odors out of your home. A careless installation? Be prepared for unpleasant smells and sluggish drains.
6. Poorly Sealed Toilets and Sinks
A newly installed toilet or sink might seem fine at first, but if the seals aren’t properly fitted, slow leaks can start to rot your subfloor or vanity cabinet. A wobbly toilet is a red flag that the wax ring wasn’t seated correctly, while an improperly sealed sink announces itself by dripping into the cabinetry. Over time, this can lead to water damage and expensive repairs.
Quality vs Price: Secure, watertight seals keep your bathroom leak-free. A rushed installation? You might be replacing floors, cabinets, and even fixtures sooner than you think.
The Bottom Line: Quality Plumbing Saves You Time, Money, and Stress
Plumbing installations aren’t just about pipes and fittings – they’re about protecting your home’s functionality, your comfort, and your wallet. A rushed or low-quality plumbing installation might not seem like a big deal at first, but over time, small mistakes can turn into major headaches. Leaks, clogs, corrosion, bad drainage, and water damage can be more than inconvenient – they can be expensive.
Want your plumbing installation done right the first time? At Mattioni, we believe your plumbing should work seamlessly – no surprises, no stress, no costly repairs down the road. That’s why we:
- Use the best materials to ensure long-term durability
- Install with precision and care so everything works as it should
- Prevent future issues by following plumbing best practices
- Offer expert guidance so you can make informed decisions about your home
While keeping upfront costs low is paramount, it’s also important to consider the long-term effects of leaving your plumbing installation to chance. Whether you’re installing a new fixture, upgrading your water heater, or reworking your home’s piping, getting the job done right the first time is always less expensive than continually patching up shoddy work.
Trust the experts with 75+ years of experience and thousands of happy customers. Schedule your appointment today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with expert service. Call (610) 400-8510 or book online now – we’ve got you covered!
