In a few days, I am planning on replacing some flexible copper water supply lines for the bathroom sink with flexible braided stainless steel hoses. First of all, is SS the best way to go for residential bathroom applications?

Does Home Depot sell the SS hoses with fittings attached for connecting to the shut off valve and the faucet, or do I have to buy the fittings separately? If so, which fittings should I go for? Compression?

Also, what is the best way to ensure a watertight seal? Which is best applied to the fittings in this application: joint compound, teflon tape, or plumber's putty?

How should I know what diameter of SS hose to get? Just match it to the old copper lines from home?

Thanks in advance for your consideration.

Most of the angle stops ( you call them "valves" ) have 1/2" IP or 3/8"Comp threads. Threads on the faucet side are most of the time 1/2" IP but can also be 3/8".

There are also few other sizes, like 9/16", 7/16" etc - but those above should be your starting point.

Best is to take one old supply line with you to Home Depot and to purchase new supplies according to old sample connector.

Advice: Don't look exactly for the same length as is the old supply. It is OK to buy longer supplies. For instance: if old supply is 18" long, you will by 20" , or maybe even 24" long water supply line.

Stainless Steel water supply connectors are OK to use.

Each water supply has washer inside its threaded ends so you don't have to buy any extra washers or fittings. No teflon tape needed. You tighten them by hand + 1/2" with channel locks.

Let me know how you did and Good luck with your project ! Milo