Went under the casa a few moments ago to check on a couple of things. The fix on the 3/4" copper pipe is still holding. But I didn't find the file. Looks to me like a fair trade off.
Regarding the Home Depot returns, I haven't had a problem in that area. However, as someone mentioned here, you have to check the item you buy, especially if it has small parts, such as a faucet. Lots of people open the packages and take out the parts they need.
Trueheart