[jyl]

As I clean up after installing a kitchen faucet, I muse.

Why does everything turn to a corroded mass as soon as it is tightened up? I know the old faucet wasn't 15 years old, yet I had to cut it out with a Dremel, a hammer, and bolt cutters. Why hasn't mankind developed a plumbing fitting that clicks together, never leaks or seeps? Is it too much to ask for a fitting that can be connected, removed and refitted without the whole ritual of 1/8th turn-see if it weeps-weep a little yourself-repeat? Why don't cabinet makers think about accomodating the actual adult sized human who will inevitably be contorted under the sink, shoulders jammed by the useless center stile, back arched, face and head dripping?

Is plumbing my least favorite of the homeowner DIY chores?

I think it must be. Sure, weeding is endless, painting persnickety, electrical potentially lethal, carpentry frustrating. But for a unpleasant, dirty, unrewarding way to spend a sunny weekend afternoon, give me plumbing every time. From extracting rotten hair masses from the girls' bathroom sink, to tantric torture yoga under the kitchen counter, plumbing takes the cake. Let's not even mention the toilet.

Anyone disagree?