Soil Stack or Stack Vent

It is the pipe that takes methane gas, also commonly referred to as sewer gas, from the plumbing system and safely vents it up through the roof, where it is diluted into the atmosphere.

Periodically it can become plugged. When that happens, run an auger or long snake down the vent until the obstruction is removed, then flush it clear using a garden hose with the water turned on.

Oftentimes, the boot or collar dries out and cracks. Leaks can develop and rot the roof boards and ceiling below. You can tar around this pipe, but the tar also dries out. For under $10 you can buy a stack sleeve the easily slides down the vent, hugging it, while eliminating further leaks.

Basic tools for a DIY plumber.

These are 10 basic tools you will need to take care of some minor plumbing repairs.
1. Pliers - Regular pliers and Channellock are used to tighten loosen P-Trap nuts
2. Pipe Wrench - 10 and 12 inch are used to tighten and loosen threaded pipe
3. Hack Saw - Used to cut through metal and plastic pipe, screws, nuts and bolts
4. Basin Wrench - Used to tighten and loosen faucet nuts under sinks
5. Plunger - No explanation needed
6. Toilet Auger - Used when a plunger won't work
7. Torch - Used to sweat copper pipe and fittings. Mapp gas is better
8. Tubing Cutters - Used to cut copper pipe
9. Metal File - Used to remove burrs and smooth metal pipe after cutting
10.Hand Snake - Used to clear sink and tub drains

These are 10 basic tools that you might need, adding some basic power tools such as a cordless drill and reciprocating saw can make things even easier. If you need to purchase tools you can save up to 40% on Brand Name, Manufacturer - Guaranteed reconditioned tools by clicking the link at the right