How do I know when I have put enough solder on a joint. I'm always worried that I put to much and it will affect the Taco zone valves or ball valves I install. My joints never leak because I put plenty of solder on them. Any tips?

'rough' rule of thumb:

nominal copper tube size = maximum length of 'standard roll' solder to apply

e.g. 1/2" Cu tube would take 1/2" length off the solder roll

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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638



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Solder, in a bonding seal... not frosting. Any excess solder will/should drip away or be wiped. Not enough, and you will know right away.

Lastly, Practice Makes Perfect.
Best Wishes

For most soldered joints, you can't use too much solder. Capillary action will draw solder into the joints provided they are cleaned prior, and once the space is full, the drawing action stops, and excess solder will pool on the outside of the fitting and drip if there is too much. wiping the joint with a dry rag quickly can remove any excess, using a wet rag will cause smears of solder to instantly dry in place.

I've heard that a wet rag can compromise the joint.

I haven't tried it myself, a dry rag doesn't get hot. I use a wet rag shortly after to clean up the flux and it gets hot as blazes, I can't imagine doing that many times with molten solder.

Thanks everyone for the great answers. As for wiping away the solder, I use felt gloves and use them to smooth the solder joint if there is too much solder. Looks like a pro did it when I'm done.



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Depending on joint I find it best to tin the pipe and inside of matching piece to insure full distribution of solder, then place in proper position and apply heat so they both melt. For insurance you could try a little extra solder after they are seated. Never fails.