SharkBite Fittings Explained: A Pro’s Guide to When (and Why) We Use Them

SharkBite fittings are a popular name in the world of plumbing for their speed and convenience — no tools, no soldering, and compatible with multiple pipe types. They’re particularly attractive to DIYers, handymen, and homeowners looking for quick fixes. But at PLUMR (Canalside Mechanical LTD), serving the Niagara Region, we take a more strategic approach.

We see SharkBites as what they are: a temporary tool for very specific situations. They have their place — but they’re not a permanent fix. Let’s break down exactly when we use them, why we don’t rely on them for long-term solutions, and what you should know as a homeowner.

What Are SharkBite Fittings?

SharkBite fittings are push-to-connect plumbing fittings that work with copper, PEX, and CPVC. You simply push the pipe into the fitting until it clicks — no glue, no clamps, no soldering. It’s fast and efficient, but there are limitations.

While they’re useful in a pinch, they’re not ideal for permanent plumbing systems — especially for professionals who are committed to building systems that last.

When We Use SharkBites at PLUMR

At PLUMR, we never rely on SharkBites as a permanent fix. Instead, we reserve them for temporary use in two main situations:

1. Emergency Repairs (Especially After Hours)

Emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Whether it’s a burst pipe in the middle of the night or an unexpected leak during a long weekend, you may need an immediate stopgap solution.

When suppliers are closed and permanent materials aren't available, we’ll use SharkBites to:

• Cap off a broken or leaking line

• Temporarily restore water to critical areas

• Prevent further water damage until we can return

we come back the next day — with the right materials — and replace that temporary fitting with a durable, permanent connection that meets all code requirements.

2. During Renovation Demolition or Prep

In renovation projects, it’s often necessary to shut off water to certain parts of the home while other trades do their work. We’ll use SharkBites to:

• Cap supply lines during demolition

• Enable safe electrical or framing work

• Temporarily shut down sections of a home’s water system

When the reno is ready for rough-ins or finishing, we return to:

• Re-route the plumbing properly

• Install new shut-offs or fixtures

• Replace temporary caps with soldered copper or crimped PEX connections

🔧 Example of Failure:

In a Thorold renovation, a homeowner used SharkBites behind a bathroom wall to quickly reroute a line. Months later, a slow leak developed, rotting the framing and drywall. The movement of the pipes inside the wall caused the fitting to shift just slightly — enough to compromise the seal.

We were called to a job in Port Colborne where a SharkBite had been used indoors to connect a hosebib line. The fitting had popped off. The client was lucky they caught it before it ran all night. Unfortunately, their insurance company denied coverage because the fitting wasn’t considered a permanent or code-approved solution. The homeowner had to pay out-of-pocket to have the damage repaired properly — a costly lesson in why temporary fixes shouldn’t be left behind.

Why We Don’t Use SharkBites for Permanent Repairs

Even though they’re convenient, SharkBite fittings come with several downsides that make them inappropriate for permanent use:

🔧 Durability Concerns

The internal rubber O-ring can wear out over time, especially in environments with frequent temperature fluctuations — something we see often here in Niagara homes. That can lead to leaks down the line.

⚠️ Code Compliance Issues

In many areas, including parts of the Niagara Region, SharkBite fittings are not approved for use inside walls or underground because they are considered temporary or accessible-only. That means they may not pass inspection.

💧 Leak Risk

If a pipe isn’t perfectly clean or cut at the right angle, or if it’s not pushed in fully, SharkBites can leak. Movement or vibration can worsen this over time. When it comes to plumbing, “good enough” isn’t good enough — we aim for permanent, precise, and professional.

🚫 Not the PLUMR Way

We’ve built our reputation on quality work that stands the test of time. SharkBites don’t reflect the high standards we set for ourselves, our materials, or the results we deliver for our clients.

The PLUMR Promise: Fast Fixes with a Long-Term Plan

Whether it's an emergency or a renovation project, our promise is the same: We may temporarily stabilize the situation using a SharkBite fitting, but we always come back to finish the job the right way.

We replace temporary fittings with:

• Soldered copper

• Crimped or expansion-style PEX

• Threaded brass or compression fittings — depending on the situation

• Propress Copper / Mega Press

This approach ensures your plumbing is not only functional but also code-compliant, leak-resistant, and built to last for years.

Educating Our Clients — Building Trust Through Transparency

We’re not just here to fix problems — we’re here to educate. Many homeowners don’t realize that some quick fixes they find online (or that handymen might use) don’t stand up over time. We walk you through our approach, explain why we do what we do, and make sure you’re fully informed about your home’s plumbing.

Serving Homeowners Across the Niagara Region

PLUMR proudly serves the entire Niagara Region, including:

St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland, Thorold, Fort Erie, Port Colborne, Grimsby, Beamsville, Lincoln, and Pelham.

Whether it’s a midnight emergency, a bathroom reno, or an issue you’ve been putting off — we’ll be there, ready to deliver high-quality plumbing work with professionalism and care.

Final Thoughts

SharkBites have their place — but they’re not a permanent solution. At PLUMR, we use them with intention, as a temporary tool during emergencies or renovations. But we always return to install permanent, long-lasting solutions that meet our high standards.

If you’ve had a quick fix and want it upgraded — or if you want to avoid temporary fixes altogether — get in touch with PLUMR. We’ll make sure your plumbing is done right, from start to finish.