Screw the pipes

One of the things we did this week was find a used microwave that would fit over our range- it is a bit dated, but worked well, and we couldn't beat the price.  Jake rarely lets a project sit for more than a day (note our speed in going from "should we?"  to "half done" on the basement).  We mounted the microwave late on Thursday night- an easy job for 2 engineers with lots of tools including a studfinder, right?

Well, as you can see from Jake's face, it didn't go well- one of the mounting screws needed to be placed just on the edge of a stud- which forced the bracket too far over.  Trying a second time, we located a bonanza of studs there to choose from, and opted to put a few extra screws in to help the bracket stay in the correct position.... except our stud finder is also a very excellent copper pipe finder...  those weren't studs!

You may not deem the enterprise lucky at this point but you'd be wrong- at least that is how we're determined to look at it.  We had several things on our side.  1) We punctured the pipes twice and the second time it was obvious- a hiss of water quickly told us we had a problem- no slow leaks to surprise us 6 months down the road with major drywall damage.  2) We know where the water shut off valves are 3) If this had happened next week, we would have had brand new drywall up for the basement ceiling and would have potentially ruined it.  4) Our plumber, who was to have finished his work Thursday, was called away on an emergency- meaning bright and early Friday morning, we had a plumber, and no need to call!  5) Our plumber is a good guy and didn't even charge us for the fix, since he was already doing the basement.

So at this point we have the patch in place and will be able to finish installing the microwave (and replace the cabinet) this weekend.  My guess?  It'll be done before noon on Saturday :)