Buying the Best Pipe Wrench: Features & Factors to Consider
Have you realized the importance of adding a pipe wrench to your toolkit the hard way? Most homeowners look for the best pipe wrench after paying for an expensive wall replacement because they couldn’t fix a leaking faucet in time. Owning a pipe wrench is much more efficient and budget-friendly than ringing the plumber whenever you spot a leak.
However, if you’ve never shopped for tools before, this might prove a little tricky. Our buying guide will help you understand your needs and explore a wealth of specifications to find the best pipe wrench for your home toolkit.
Types of Pipe Wrenches
There are different kinds of pipe wrenches in the market, and buying the right type is crucial to avoid doing more harm than good. You see, you don’t want to damage the pipe and joints and even your limbs, by using the wrong wrench for the job.
Let’s take a look at the most common types of plumber wrenches to help you find the right fit.
1. Offset Wrench
An offset wrench is a commonly used household tool that comes in handy when working with odd angles and parallel-running pipes. The narrow jaws of the offset wrench make it easier when there’s very little space for movement.
Suppose you need a wrench with sharp teeth to fit into a narrow space. In that case, we recommend buying the Swedish pipe wrench – a terrific upgrade on the offset spanner that comes with sharp teeth on its tampered jaws.
2. Straight Wrench
The most popular, and undoubtedly the best pipe wrench used in households, the straight wrench comes in a variety of sizes. It is immensely useful at adjusting pipes ranging from as low as half an inch to as high as 60 inches. We advise measuring the size of your pipes before exploring products.
3. Compound Leverage Wrench
Much like the name implies, the compound wrench packs up more leverage while working with overly tight and tough joints that are hard to disassemble. The compound leverage wrench will reduce your elbow grease, especially while working in chilly weather. It’s highly recommended for joints that are corroded, damaged, or old. It multiplies the force you exert, thereby loosening the joint without damaging the structure.
4. Chain Pipe Wrench
A modern upgrade to traditional wrenches, the chain pipe plumbing tool features a chain strap instead of a head. It is highly useful at working with oddly-shaped joints and tubes and smooth surfaces that need a delicate touch.
5. Strap Pipe Wrench
A slightly different version of the chain pipe design, the strap pipe version is designed with metal, rubber, and even leather straps. It is also useful at working with weirdly shaped pipes and tubes, and you simply have to attach it to the surface. The strap will tighten itself, creating friction that loosens up the pipe or joints.
6. End Pipe Wrench
The end pipe wrench is designed with jaws placed at somewhat deviated angles as compared to traditional wrenches. This jaw design makes this the perfect tool for working with pipes and joints close to the wall with limited space for movement. Typically, the bottom end of the pipe is situated in a tight corner or extremely near the walls. This tool certainly lives up to its name, and the end pipe wrench offers a much firmer grip than regular wrenches.
Sizing & Specifications
Pipe wrenches are available in a broad array of sizes, and it’s wise to measure the dimensions of your pipes before making the purchase. You may need to invest in multiple pipe wrenches to ensure you have the right tool to work with all the sets of pipes and joints on your property. Typically, sizes ranging between 14-18 inches are ideal for performing odd jobs around the house.
However, sizing isn’t the only feature you need to consider. Keep reading to explore other elements that have a powerful impact on ease of use.
Head
Suppose you’re working with limited space between the wall and the pipe at an extremely odd angle. In that case, a narrow-head wrench with a firmly gripping jaw will make the job incredibly easier. A strap pipe wrench would be even more efficient, as you can wrap it around the surface. In contrast, a wide-head wrench won’t fit into the tiny space.
You see, there’s much to consider here, as to find the right head, you must closely examine your plumbing system. Or you can invest in all the common types for a well-stocked arsenal.
Jaw
The jaw and teeth of the wrench determine the firmness of its grip. The best pipe wrench for home use comes with a jaw capacity ranging from 1 to 6 inches. However, adjusting the jaw and finding the right fit can prove a horrible nightmare, especially for beginners.
We advise investing in a pipe wrench featuring spring-loaded jaws to make jaw adjustment straightforward and quick. Suppose you constantly need to fix the same tube or joint repeatedly. In that case, it’s wise to buy a wrench with a jaw that can be locked into place to support repetitive use without requiring an adjustment.
Conclusion
You may want to start your DIY journey with a more straightforward tool that is easier for a novice. If you’re going for a regular pipe wrench, be sure to get one with engraved numbers running across the jaw opening. How else will you figure out how much jaw opening is required to find the perfect fit? Be sure to prioritize features that enhance accessibility and utility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1) Which material is best for pipe wrenches for home use?
The best pipe wrenches are constructed with forged steel, carbon steel, and cast steel. These materials do not break, and they last a lifetime. A stainless steel wrench is also highly efficient and offers terrific durability.
2) Will a cheap pipe wrench get the job done?
You may be tempted to invest in a cheap product, but we firmly advise against low-cost construction. Most cheaper wrenches are constructed with ductile iron, which tends to bend after a while and requires replacement.
3) What’s the most important feature to look at in a pipe wrench?
The jaw capacity and adjustment are essential features to consider. It’s crucial to invest in a wrench featuring black oxide or sandblast protective coating to prevent damages and rust.