The secret 6th step for a perfect solder joint

If you haven’t read my first article “5 steps to a perfect solder joint” where I gave away most of my  soldering secrets for creating a professional solder or hot work joint. Click here to read that article first. that way this article will make more sense to you.

The secret 6th step for a perfect solder joint

Even if this is your first time soldering copper plumbing, I am going to let you in on a “Secret” step that most plumbers will not tell you about.

Why? Good question, here is the answer.

Most plumbers believe that if there solder joints look better than there colleagues they are a better plumber. Believe me when I tell you, most plumbers are very “condescend” and competitive.

With that said, I am happy to let you in on the secret 6th step that will improve your soder finishes.

you’re cup overflowing

After you have filled your hub with solder you’re going to see the solder form and start to dry around the hub and may even overflow and run over the fitting.  Here is what you will need to do and have on hand.

You need a damp cloth towel called a wiping towel. or any old rag will do.
You also need a spray bottle filled with water.
While the solder is still in it’s molten form take your damp cloth and wipe the solder around the hub. At the same time as you whipe try to push as much of the solder into the hub of the fitting.

Once you have completed that part of the task, spray a mist of water onto the pipe and fitting. Then wipe the fitting and pipe down again. This last step will remove any excess flux and dirt from your perfect solder joint.

Pretty simple, huh?

Believe it or not it may take an apprentice nine month or more to figure out the secret 6th step that will improve your solder finish. Give it a whirl and remember practice makes perfect.

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