There are three major plumbing issues for every homeowner to keep a watchful eye on. We cannot avoid plumbing problems no matter what we do. If you’re a home or property owner, plumbing problems are inevitable. The real question is whether it will be a major or minor plumbing issue. A small plumbing issue will not become a big problem if kept in check. Like everything else, age is the culprit. Older homes, apartments, and buildings are susceptible to major plumbing repairs, especially if you don’t heed the warning signs.
Below are some tips to avoid a major plumbing issue:
1. Replace or repair your water heater before they begin to leak.
2. Have your sewer line camera inspected if you’re experiencing clogged drains.
3. Replace your old, outdated garbage disposal before it starts leaking, especially if you notice a drop in power.
4. Have your old shut-off valves replaced in your kitchen and bathrooms before disaster strikes.
5. Your washer hookups need replacing every 8 to 10 years.
6. Install a new pressure regulator before water pressure becomes an issue in your home.
What Can I Do To Reduce My Chances Of Any Major Plumbing Issues?
However, some things we can do that will reduce the chances of a major breakdown before its time. The first thing we can do to better our plumbing system is install a reverse osmosis water treatment system. The system will eliminate the effects of hard water on our plumbing system and prolong the expectancy of our pipes, water heater, and appliances. In addition, it gives us great healthy-tasting water and eliminates hard water stains on our countertops and shower doors.
#1 Galvanized Pipes Were Commonly Used
In the 1960s and before, galvanized pipes were the go-to piping for home builders and plumbing companies. They became the replacement for lead pipes. Galvanized pipes are steel pipes that have been coated with zinc to protect against rust. However, research on the pipes would have taken decades to understand the long-term effects.
But we have learned that when exposed to water, especially hard water over many years, it will eventually cause the pipes to rust on the inside. When remodeling an older home, the homeowners tend to focus on the aesthetics when plumbing and electrical should be the priority. Replacing your pipes with copper or PEX will save time and money in the long and short run.
#2 PEX Is The New Go-To Piping For Plumbing Contractors
While we are all too familiar with copper, nevertheless, cross-linked polyethylene, abbreviated (PEX), is now the first choice for plumbing contractors since the turn of the century. The product costs less, is easier to install, and has a life expectancy of copper.
#3 Tree Roots Cause Major Plumbing Issues
Another major problem you want to avoid is tree roots. Again this is usually a problem in older homes and buildings built 25 – 50 years ago.
Once tree roots have invaded your sewer line, there are only a couple of long-term solutions. The first solution is to remove all trees from the area of your sewer line. Next, have your sewer line video inspected by your plumbing contractor for any damage to the line.
You May Want to Consider a Trenchless Sewer Line
If the damage is significant, you may want to consider a trenchless sewer line. Trenchless sewer lines are known to last 50 – 100 years or longer and don’t require your surrounding landscape to be uprooted and damaged. Having your sewer line hydro jetted can clear roots that have invaded your drain, but they will return over time if you don’t take the necessary steps to remove the surrounding trees. Although, once the sewer pipe is compromised through a crack or break, chances are it will need to get replaced even if you cleared the surrounding area. Shifting soil and old corroded sewer pipes are problematic and cannot be avoided.
Slab Leaks Can Cause Severe Damage
A leak in your slab can cause severe damage. The slightest shift in your foundation can cause a slab leak. Another reason that will create a slab leak is if a small pebble is pressing against your copper pipe, it could generate a pinhole leak over many years. The sooner you catch the problem, the better off you’ll be. If you notice discoloration in your grout or wood floors, it could be the first sign of a slab leak. Often, the garage floor will have a dark spot on it, unlike the rest of the concrete. Whatever the case, the sooner you can detect any plumbing problem, the less damage will occur. Sometimes, you will discover the problem through a high water bill. For example, a slab leak that goes unnoticed will create a high water bill.
Water Leaks Are The Second Largest Cause Of Claims
Have a leak detection device installed on your incoming water supply line. Most homeowners don’t know about the latest plumbing technologies. This is one device that will warn you of the slightest water leak. The device connects to an app on your smartphone through your WIFI. If a pipe, faucet, slab, or toilet starts to leak, you’re notified through your phone promptly, allowing you enough time to fix the problem before you experience water damage. Some leak detection devices can turn off your water right at the phone. The Insurance Information Institute has provided information showing that water damage is the second largest cause of claims from 2015 to 2019.
We Use The Latest Plumbing Equipment And Supplies
Call a plumbing specialist from Big B’s Plumbing today if you believe your home is experiencing a water leak. Our water leak specialist will locate your leak using the latest leak detection equipment. Big B’s Plumbing is an A+ rated company ready to meet any plumbing need. We’ll always give you the service and value you deserve.
