The pipe wrench is an
important tool to have when working on
material that is cylindrical in shape. Its
most common application is in replacing,
repairing, or adjusting steel pipes, which
are very common in older homes.

But even if your house was recently constructed,
chances are that you have several major
places that will require a pipe wrench
for any repairs. Next time you’re under
your home, take a look. If you ever plan
on doing any work on any of that steel
conduit, you’ll need at least one pipe
wrench.

Pipe wrenches come in different
lengths; they usually range from eight
to forty-eight inches. Most pipes in the
average home can be adjusted with a
twelve- or fourteen-inch wrench. A basic,
medium-sized pipe wrench costs only
around $25.

Before shopping for a pipe wrench, it’s
important to identify the size of pipe you
may need to adjust. You can do this by
inventorying the steel pipe and fittings
under and around your house, as well as
any that may be part of your irrigation
system. Disregard any soldered copper
tubing and cemented PVC pipes—they
require a different set of tools for repairs.
Your pipe wrench is only for pipes with
threaded ends.

Once you’ve determined the size of
your pipes, you’re ready to choose a
wrench length. A fourteen-inch wrench is
recommended for half-inch to one-and-ahalf-
inch pipes. An eighteen-inch wrench
is recommended for those between one
and two inches. Also, it’s a good idea to
buy two. In many applications, you’ll need
to use one wrench to hold a pipe, while
using the other to turn its counterpart.

Many tools have come a long way in
ergonomic handles. Unfortunately, the
pipe wrench is not one of them. Do your
best to fi nd a wrench with a reasonably
comfortable handle, but don’t search
the world for one that’s pleasant to hold.
In general, pipe wrench handles are
designed for strength, not comfort.

The traditional style of this tool is called
a straight pipe wrench, although the name
is a bit of a misnomer because its jaws
extend at a right angle from the handle.
The straight pipe wrench will work for
most jobs, but there are other models
available for specialized applications. The
offset pipe wrench is great for tight places,
and rapid-grip models are available for
one-handed operation.

Most models work using the same
principle. The lower jaw of the wrench
pivots to tighten its grip on the pipe as
pressure is applied to the handle. It’s
important to put the pipe only part of the
way into the wrench’s jaws. Placing the
pipe all the way to the back of the tool
greatly reduces its gripping power.

Remember to be careful when working
with steel pipes. Some transport water,
while others transport gas; it’s important
to know which is which before starting
work. Also, it’s tempting to use a lever
or “cheater” when dealing with stubborn
pipes, which employs the use of a steel
pipe to extend the length of the handle.
But most manufacturers say this practice
can damage the wrench. Finally, as with
any hand tool, always wear eye protection
when using a pipe wrench. Sudden
slips between the wrench and pipe are
common.

Peter Marschall is a native Nevadan and
freelance journalist.