Been told that union plumbers wipe the joint to remove the flux you applied
before soldering. Don't know if the flux is destructive over time to the
copper or if it is just cosmetic. IMO keep a wet rag handy and wipe the
joint.
"Prof Reid" wrote in message
...
Sometimes in soldering copper pipe and fittings, it's difficult
to wipe a joint giving it a "nice" finished appearance. This
is especially true for the backside of some work.

Is there some quality, durability or other reason for the wipe?
Or, is it just cosmetic, and essentially unnecessary?

Thanks,

Dick