As plumbing professionals, we know how important it is to save our customers time and money. That’s why we pride ourselves on arming homeowners with the tips that will prevent costly plumbing repairs. From pipe leaks to sewer line clogs to foundation slab leaks, these expensive problems are largely avoidable if the right steps are taken.
It’s important to understand that plumbing problems may not always be immediately apparent, because they can be a long time in the making. Follow our helpful tips and tricks to help you detect any major issues as well as prevent long-term damage that will be costly to fix.
Pipe Leaks
About the Problem: While your plumbing system may be built to last, leaks are bound to happen around the home. Things like high water pressure or deteriorating pipes can cause leaks. Even the smallest drips of water can eventually lead to water damage in some shape or form. If left untreated, this can quickly destroy your home’s floors, foundation, and walls. The gravity of the damage can require extensive pipe repairs and mold remediation.
How to Prevent: Measure your home’s water pressure to ensure it’s below 60 PSI. Insulating the pipes in your home’s exterior walls can also go a long way in enabling the pipe to retain warmth and prevent freezing. Also, be sure to tighten all fittings and seal all pipes properly to prevent — or at least slow down — any leaks.
Sewer Line Repairs
About the Problem: Your home’s sewer line, or main drain, is one of the most expensive plumbing systems to repair or replace. It runs underground from your house to the municipal sewer on the street. Homeowners are responsible for all maintenance and repairs so it’s important to minimize common issues with sewer lines such as sewer leaks and clogs.
How to Prevent: Start by identifying where your sewer line is so you and any hired contractors can avoid that area when landscaping. Never plant trees or large plants near the main sewer line to prevent significant damage that can be caused by thirsty tree roots. And be sure to flush it regularly to protect the sewer line against clogs. When non-flushable items such as grease, diapers, or disposable gloves are thrown out in the toilet, sink, or disposals, blockages are common (and costly) to fix.
Foundation Slab Leaks
About the Problem: These types of leaks occur in homes that are built on a concrete slab foundation rather than a pier-and-beam design. When plumbing leaks leave water under the concrete slab, the entire home’s foundation may be impacted. Erosion can compromise your home’s structural integrity and may lead to significant damage — and expensive repairs. Thankfully, foundation slab leaks are preventable.
How to Prevent: Learning the warning signs is an important first step in foundation slab leak prevention. If your water bills are uncharacteristically high, water pressure decreases, and you have wet carpets or damaged hardwood floors, there may be a slab leak that needs attention. It’s always wise to schedule regular plumbing inspections so a certified professional can properly detect a leak before it’s too late. Also, take note of how the trees around your home are growing. Regularly prune them to ensure they do not cause a plumbing threat that could lead to slab leaks.
At Canady’s we know how frustrating and expensive plumbing problems can be for homeowners. Our team of experts wants to help save you time and money by offering tricks and tips to prevent common plumbing issues. But at the end of the day, plumbing systems may still need repairs or replacements, and we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a repair or request a quote.