After you’ve completed your repair, take a few photos with your digital camera. Take close-up shots of any critical areas, serial numbers, part numbers, etc. You might even take a photo of the replacement part(s) packaging to show the manufacturer and part number.

Then next time — before you open the valve, take the drywall out, and scratch your head, you have a set of photos to refer to. You know the configuration, approximate location, and materials.

It’s also a great way to share the story of your brilliant solution or the challenges of a particular building.