Category Archives: How To

Plumbing Upgrades For An Aging Population

February 17, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Time is one factor that no one can control. As time passes, things continue to age. The circle of life is no mystery to any of us. The task of coping with the changes that are to come can be troublesome. One area of the home where the most injuries occur in older individuals is the bathroom. To protect yourself, parent, or loved one from injuring themselves in this common area of the home, there are a few upgrades that can be done.

Some upgrades you can do on your own, while other upgrades will require the assistance of a professional. The do-it-yourself upgrades are generally the first things that are attempted, before outside assistance is called in. The upgrades that can be done without any professional assistance include: changing door knobs, installing grip bars, and purchasing a nonslip bath mat for the tub.

DIY Plumbing Upgrades

Door knobs may need to be replaced, if they are hard to grasp. It is important to remember that as you age, you may not have the same amount of strength you once had when you were a young chap. It is important that the knobs in your residence adapt to your capabilities. If a knob is too hard to turn, then it needs to be replaced.

Grip bars can be installed to allow an easy transition from a sitting position to a stance. The nonslip liner for the bath is a given. If your legs get wobbly from standing in a place for too long, adding water into the picture can make the task dangerous. Along with an anti-slip mat a waterproof chair or bench can greatly improve safety. Most injuries occur in the shower, because wet slippery surfaces can put people with mobility issues in danger.

When To Call In A Professional

Simple alterations can be made to a bathroom to make it safer for elderly people. Small changes and additions can make tasks less daunting. However, if any major alterations need to be made to the bathroom or kitchen, these DC plumbing upgrades should be completed by a professional. Raising or replacing a sink, installing slip resistant flooring, and installing a special toilet all require professional intervention.

Raising Or Replacing A Sink

Elderly individuals that have issues bending over may elect to have their sink raised to make the task easier. A professional should be called in to complete this service, to ensure that it is done correctly. Wheelchair bound individuals may also need to have their sinks lowered to accommodate their needs. Homes are not readily equipped or sold with these modifications, so they will need to be done at some point by a professional servicer who offers DC plumbing services.

Installing Slip Resistant Flooring

Slippery surfaces are a danger zone for elderly people. Not only is an elderly’s person’s mobility jeopardized, but if they were to fall, it could have detrimental effects. If the tile in your bathroom is glossy or slippery when wet, to avoid accidents, have it replaced.

Installing A Special Toilet

The shower and the toilet are two of the most important parts of a lavatory. If an elderly person has a problem getting up from the toilet, or sitting on it, a special toilet can be installed. These special devices can be adjusted to a height to eliminate the danger of going to the bathroom. No one wants to hear that a loved one has gone to the bathroom and is unable to vacate the facility, or has been injured attempting to do so.

Top Three Kitchen Trends For 2017

February 14, 2017DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How Tomatt

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It serves a major purpose to daily existence. This is where our food is stored, and our meals are prepared. This is the one place in your home, where food and functionality are the most important factors. It is not only vital that your kitchen serve its main purpose of providing a storage facility and preparation area, but your kitchen should also function accordingly.

To keep up with the everchanging lifestyles of modern day society, many people choose to remodel their kitchens to adhere to their specific needs. Kitchen renovations in DC can be cost-effective and one of the smartest room remodels that you can do to your home. If you are interested in altering the aesthetic of your home for your enjoyment, or to sell it, knowing which trends to look out for will help you make wise design choices.

Tuxedo Style Kitchens

Tuxedo style kitchens have become extremely popular, due to their simplicity. Chances are you have not heard of this design described as mimicking a tuxedo, but have possibly encountered it a few times. These designs have a light color block on top, and are combined with a darker color on the bottom. The darker color is typically a grey or black tone. With this type of design, details matter to make it pop. The top and bottom colors should blend together at some point.

Hidden Appliance Kitchens

Tidiness is next to Godliness is an adage that comes to mind when speaking of this design. This kitchen design concept has gained an increased amount of popularity due to its aesthetic appeal. With this design, simple ordinary appliances that one would expect to see in a kitchen are camouflaged. The effect is accomplished by creating cabinets to cover the appliance, instead of leaving it out in the open, like many design concepts do.

The hidden appliance concept gives the kitchen an uncluttered appearance. It opens counter space and room, allowing the area to provide a multifunctional effect. This is perhaps one of the top trends to look out for in 2017. New designs not only allow cabinets to be used to hide refrigerators, but other common items such as coffee makers and microwaves are being disguised.

Automation For The Kitchen

Technology shapes the way that we live, and in 2017 it is going to make a huge impact in the kitchen. Fully automated faucets that allow people of varying items to reach the faucet are already extremely popular. Some new things to keep an eye on in 2017 are going to include: fully automated appliances that work in conjunction with your smartphone, and automated cooking tools.

With new trends rolling in, it is important to also stay away from outdated trends. Short cabinets are becoming a thing of the past, taller cabinets are now a thing of the future. Granite countertops still provide an adequate amount of flair, but lighter colored granite is the new upcoming trend. The dark kitchen phase has reached its end also. In 2017, it is all going to be about making the kitchen one of the lightest and brightest areas of the home.

Three Ways To Turn Your Bathroom Into A Smart Room

February 13, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, How Tomatt

It is an undeniable fact that technology has severely altered our existence. Smartphones have become the modern-day equivalent to a daily journal. The internet is where everyone goes if they need a question answered. Technology has changed the way that we act and the way that we live. Now it has also changed the functionality of the bathroom.

Many adults can recall their parents bickering at them for bringing something electronic into the bathroom with them. Parents were convinced that if something electronic were taken into the area that their children could get hurt. Now, electronics have become a part of the bathroom, and are being integrated into the room with such precision that it’s hard to tell if they are incorporated or not.

The Cool Cabinet Effect

The Cool Cabinet is a idea that does exist, and one you may be interested in if you are planning to do some bathroom remodeling in DC. On the outside, the cabinet looks like your basic medicine cabinet. It has mirrors on the outside of it, and when it opens, there is space for you to store your hygiene products. When it comes to this cabinet, looks can be deceiving. The medicine cabinet is built with a partial refrigeration system.

This system was built in to provide an area to keep cold drinks on hand, or for other items that require refrigeration. Skin products that are organically made can be stored here, instead of the fridge. Also, for people that take medications that require refrigeration, there will be no need to have to store pills next to food. Instead, the cabinet provides a perfect place to keep prescriptions cold.

The Smart Shower

There is no better feeling in the world than stepping into a hot steaming shower at the end of a hard day. The new and improved smart shower is designed to please. This shower is loaded with interactive features that make showering extremely enjoyable and unforgettable. The appearance of the shower is simple, it is the hidden gems that make it incredibly attractive.

The smart shower features a built-in control system. The system is controlled by a few flicks of the finger, using an LCD screen that can be mounted anywhere. This shower allows users to control the water pressure of their shower, the temperature of their water, and the steam that the shower is releasing. The shower provides a fully customizable showering experience for everyone in the family.

Built-in Bathroom Stereo System

Imagine turning your tub into a stereo system. The concept may sound silly, but people are doing it. There is a built in stereo system that exists that enables music to be broadcasted from the tub in the bathroom. An amplifier is placed inside of a cabinet in the room, and can be connected to a phone or a CD can be placed into it. Speakers that are not visible are placed inside of the tub, and the sound is amplified from there.

While having the stereo system installed, you can also opt for heating pads to be placed inside the inner layer of the tub as well. These pads are designed to provide a spa-like feel in your residence. Technology has made it possible to customize your life, and make it into something that you can enjoy in every facet. From the kitchen, to the bathroom, to the car, technology integration just makes sense.

Space Saver Ideas For Small Bathroom Remodels

February 10, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Bathrooms are normally the toughest and most expensive room to remodel in your home. The plumbing lines that have been set to signify where the toilet, sink, and tub should be set are usually in a fixed location. If the footprint of the room is small, there may not be a lot of room to work with when considering a remodel.

There is always the option of taking out a wall to expand the space. If you are tight on cash and do not the money to do a complete remodel, there are some simple things that can be done to make the room appear larger. Five space saving ideas to consider when doing DC bathroom remodeling are to change out the vanity, eliminate shower curtains, clear out the clutter, paint the walls, and add extra light.

Change Out The Vanity

If your small sized bathroom contains a vanity, consider changing it out. The vanity can be swapped for a pedestal style sink or a console that possesses a few shelves. Removing the vanity may eliminate the room’s storage potential, but it will make the room appear spacious.

Eliminate Shower Curtains

Shower curtains can make a small bathroom appear even smaller. If the curtain is made of fabric or possess a pattern, the bathroom will have a closed in or dark appearance. To give the bathroom a spacious look, install glass sliding doors. The doors are available in varying styles, and give the room a lighter appearance.

Clear Out Clutter

Cluttered rooms give an area a smaller appearance, even if the area is large. Baskets and shelves can be used to organize the area. Consider installing floating or wall-mounted cabinets. Place the shelves at a decent height, so you can store your bathroom essentials, but low enough for you to be able to grab something if it is needed.

Paint The Walls

Dark colors make rooms appear closed in, while lighter colors open them up. If your bathroom does not get a decent amount of natural light, lighter or neutral colors should be used to brighten up the space. The right paint color can transform the bathroom in your home. A light and lively color will give the room depth, making it appear larger than its square footage.

Add Extra Light

A common reason why people opt to remodel their bathrooms is due to trends. While a bathroom that possesses pattern tiles all over the walls may have been a great look in the seventies, it is not a good look now. Changing out the light fixtures in the room can provide additional lighting that the bathroom lacked previously. Think about adding sconces along the left and right sides of the mirror, or doing wall-mounted string lines.

Some bathroom remodels can be DIY, while other remodeling ideas may require professional intervention. Before removing the fixtures in the room, such as the sink, toilet, or tub, reach out to a professional to avoid damaging anything. Remodeling a room takes skill; small bathroom remodels can be just as tedious as their larger counterparts.

Five Tips To Make Your Plumbing Renovation Project Run Smoothly

February 8, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Renovating your home can be exciting, but it also requires a lot of work. If you plan on doing the work yourself, or hiring an experienced contractor to perform the remodel for you, there is plenty that needs to be completed. When planning your renovation, it is vital to consider the plumbing renovations that will need to be done.

There are five things that you can do to make the renovation go smoothly. You should make it a point to hire a plumber at the onset of your project, make realistic location choices, be flexible with your design, leave an ample amount of time to get the project completed, and employ licensed professionals. These five things may sound simple enough, but they are overlooked often.

Hire A Plumber At The Onset Of Your Project

There is no telling what you will run into when renovating your kitchen or bathroom. You should not wait until after you have begun demolition to employ a contractor. A licensed plumbing professional can guide you through performing DC plumbing renovations, without endangering the plumbing system in your home. They can help you determine what needs to be replaced, allowing you to properly plan for their services in your renovation budget.

Make Realistic Location Choices

In most homes, plumbing lines are already set where they need to be. If you want to have a line moved so a fixture can be placed in a different spot, make sure your expectations are realistic. Pipes can always be moved to accommodate your location choice, but make sure that you are not making silly requests. Sometimes untrained people expect professionals to be able to perform tasks that are unrealistic.

Be Flexible With Your Design

You have a vision of what you want your project to look like once it’s completed, but sometimes it is impossible to get everything that you want. Whenever plumbing renovations are involved, you must be flexible with your design choices. Being flexible will allow your plumber to meet your expectations without compromising the plumbing system in the process.

Leave An Ample Amount Of Time To Get The Project Completed

It takes time to renovate a home’s plumbing system. Even highly skilled plumbers will still need an ample amount of time to be able to get your renovations done correctly and safely. In some cases, permits may be required to move piping systems, which can take a little bit of time to obtain. You should include waiting times for permits into your renovation schedule.

Employ Licensed Professionals

Licensure is important when it comes to plumbing renovations. Although it seems unimportant to hire a plumber who is licensed to fix a leaky faucet or a clogged drain, larger projects require a licensed professional. Licensed professionals will not only have the proper experience to complete your job, but they will also carry insurance if something were to happen while they are completing your renovation project.

Plumbing renovations are a great way to design your home to adhere to your personal preferences. Keeping the previous five tips in mind, when planning your next renovation, will ensure that it is done right. Remember that renovations take time, planning, and money to be done properly.

Three Reasons To Hire Sewer Services

February 7, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

The importance of maintaining a functional plumbing system is often overlooked by homeowners. If the plumbing system in a building is properly maintained, an expert will rarely have to be called in to render services. Overtime, a neglected system can cause problems that will get worse as time proceeds. Proper maintenance can stop problems from occurring, but most people do not understand how important their sewage systems are until it’s too late.

The pipelines that are used in sewage systems are delicate. If the system is not adequately maintained, it can cause a company offering sewer services in DC to have to intervene to rectify the issue. There are three reasons to consider employing a professional if you begin to experience sewage issues. A professional service can properly diagnose the sewage problem, clean out blocked pipes, and help eliminate further damage to the piping system.

Properly Diagnose The Sewage Problem

Clogs within the sewage system occur when something is blocking the one of the pipelines. If a clog is not fixed promptly, this could cause the pipes that are being blocked to crack or burst under pressure. Pipes that are cracked or burst will need to be rectified by a professional. They will identify the cause of the issue and resolve it.

Clean Out Blocked Pipes

Clogged pipes happen for a variety of different reasons. The most common reasons why they occur is because of objects being flushed down the toilet that should be disposed of by a different means. Baby diapers, tissue rolls, and tampons are commonly flushed down the toilet, instead of being disposed of properly. If these items are flushed down the commode, they can cause massive problems.

It is vital that only things that are intended to be flushed down the toilet are disposed of in this matter. In most cases, only toilet paper should be put into a toilet, because it will disintegrate over time. Once an item has obstructed the flow of water, it can cause any water that is flushed into the pipes to come back up, because it has no way to pass through.

Eliminate Further Damage To The Piping System

If a clogged pipe or sewage leak is not fixed immediately, the issue can spread throughout the property. The sewage can spew over to the front lawn of your residence, basement, or any area that water is being fed to. Homeowners that attempt to fix the problem on their own, without any plumbing experience can cause further damage to their piping system.

Trained sewage professionals know what to do to ensure that further damage does not occur. These professionals will identify the cause, use their specialized equipment to fix the issue, and help eliminate any further damage to the piping system. They understand how the system runs and operates, making the task of fixing the issue seamless.

As mentioned before, the sewage system in a dwelling is complex and delicate. Maintaining the system and getting it properly fixed if anything goes wrong helps ensure the safety of your household. Raw sewage has been linked to adverse health complications. It is important to get any sewage related issues fixed properly to avoid further damage to your dwelling and your health.

Three Common Plumbing Repairs In The Home

February 6, 2017DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Owning a home can be a joyous experience, but being a homeowner also comes with its headaches. As a homeowner is it your responsibility to fix any problems that could arise in the dwelling. A common repair issue that occurs in a residence comes in the form of plumbing issues. Some of the issues can be rectified on your own, but others will require intervention from a plumbing professional.

If the problem occurs in an inaccessible area, or will take a lot of time to fix, DC plumbing repairs should be done by a reputable company. DIY projects have gained a lot of popularity, but you cannot fix something yourself if you do not have a clue what you are doing. There always comes a point with DIY tasks where your scope of practice does not cover what needs to be done. This is when professionals will need to be called in.

Leave It To The Professionals

The layout of the piping system in your home can be difficult to decipher. For many homeowners, the thought of completing repairs on their own can be daunting. A professional that is employed in this line of work, understands how the piping system in your home operates. If there is an issue, they can point out its exact cause without having to guess what the problem could be.

A basic plumbing system consists of a supply side and a drain side. Water is fed into the home through the supply side and it exits the residence through the drain side. Between the supply and drain side, there are networks of pipes that supply various areas of the home. It is within these networks that the most common plumbing repair issues occur. Leaks, clogs, and fixture repairs are the most common household plumbing problems.

Leaks

Leaks occurring within a home can be visible or invisible. They may create a pool of water around a supply source, such as the kitchen or bathroom sink, or the tub. Leaks can also be spotted on the walls, causing a stain to appear in the area. After the source of the leak has been identified, the plumber can then begin repairing the issue.

Clogged Drains

There are a lot of products that can be purchased from local retailers to help unclog drains. Even though these products exist, they do a minimal job of helping with basic clogs. If the clog is deep within the piping system, or the lines are old, a DIY clog product that can be purchased through a retail provider may not suffice. Clogs occurring in the tub or sink will need to be rectified by a professional servicer.

Fixture Repairs

The term fixture repair refers to replacing a faulty fixture, such as a toilet, faucet, or showerhead. The complexity of the home can determine if these fixtures can be replaced by the homeowner, or if a professional company should complete the task. If you are unaware of how to replace these fixtures, it is in your best interest to call someone to assist. When in doubt always refer out.

Qualities Of A Good Emergency Plumber

February 5, 2017DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Most people can fix minor plumbing issues that arise in their homes without calling a professional, but there will always come a time when a professional’s expertise is needed. Every household should keep a list of emergency numbers handy, whenever something occurs in their dwelling that they cannot fix. When hiring a plumber, it is imperative to do your research.

The plumber that you employ should possess certain characteristics that set them apart from their competitors. Often, people pay too much attention to price, instead of considering the other qualities that a professional should possess. The DC emergency plumber that you choose to hire should possess the following characteristics: professionalism, experience, reliability, and proper credentials.

Professionalism

Professionalism should always be displayed by the plumber that you employ. The individual or company that is dispatched to your residence should be able to answer any questions that you have regarding the service. An educated plumber will be able to explain the problem to you, answer questions you may have concerning the issue, and provide tips that can help you avoid the problem in the future.

Experience

Proper skills and experience will ensure that your job is performed correctly, the first time. Plumbing is a hands-on job, where most the job is taught through doing the task. The more experience the professional has, the better it is for your job. The job can be completed quickly and accurately, helping you eliminate the chances of the same issue occurring again. The emergency plumber you employ should be able to rectify any plumbing related issue, because they have fixed issues just like yours in the past.

Reliability

When you call or schedule to have a plumber dispatched to your residence, you want to ensure that they will come. A reputable company will put their customers first. They will show up at their assigned time, and complete the task at hand without any qualms. Reliable plumbers can be dispatched to your residence whenever an issue arises, be it day or night.

Proper Credentials

It is possible to find a handyman to fix your plumbing related issues. However, if you want the job done right the first time, a reputable plumbing service should be who you should call. Plumbing companies will hire the best of the best to perform your job. Typically, these individuals will possess certain credentials to be able to perform the plumbing task they are assigned to.

There are a few classifications of plumbers. There are apprentice plumbers, journeymen plumbers, and master plumbers. Apprentice plumbers are individuals who are still learning the craft. These people will practice underneath a master plumber, until they have received the proper credentials needed to practice on their own.

Journeymen plumbers are right above the apprentice position. These individuals will have experience in the field, but not enough experience to be considered a master. Master plumbers are the best of the best. These individuals have earned this title through schooling and on the job experience. A master plumber is a highly skilled individual that has usually dedicated their lives to the profession.

How Do You Know When You Need Emergency Plumbing Services

January 12, 2017Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issues, Water Heatersmatt

Plumbing emergencies can jeopardize the health and safety of you and your family. But how do you know if the plumbing problem you’re experiencing is a plumbing emergency and not just a common plumbing problem? Here are a few situations that should be considered plumbing emergencies. If you experience any of these situations, you should consult the help of a professional plumber as quickly as possible.

Drainage And Sewer System Backups

Clogged sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers can be a sign of a serious plumbing emergency. If left unattended for too long a clogged drain can quickly go from draining slowly to overflowing or flooding. A professional plumber can help you assess and fix these situations before they turn into an emergency.

Water Heater Repair Or Replacement

A water heater is an essential part of any residential or commercial plumbing system. The water heater is what delivers hot water to your home or business. Your water heater gets used more frequently when the temperature drops, but it should be tested and maintained on a regular basis to ensure maximum efficiency and conserve water in your home or business. And since proper water heater maintenance will conserve water, it will also save you money on the utility bills for your home or business. Either a shortage of or the absence of hot water is a sign of a problem with your hot water heater. Having no hot water puts the health and safety of you and your family at risk. And if you own a business, it can make your fellow employees, and customers sick as well. So if you’re experiencing one or both of these issues, you should consider it an emergency and contact a professional plumber immediately.

Leaks

A leak might seem like a minor problem. But if it’s not repaired as quickly as possible, it can lead to even bigger plumbing problems. For example, a leak in your wash machine hose, can lead to a major flood in your home’s laundry room. A professional plumber can assist you with the repair of all types of leaks in your home or business including drains, pipes, plumbing fixtures, and toilets. A professional plumber can even help you with the heating and cooling (HVAC) system in your home or business too. If you have a leak in your home or business, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional plumber right away.

Reliability

If you do have a plumbing emergency like the ones described above, you can count on a professional plumber to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently without disrupting your daily routine or your busy schedule. A professional plumber will also provide exceptional customer service and be willing to answer any questions that you may have.

Finding Emergency Plumbing Services In Your Area

If you’re looking for emergency plumbing services in your area, word of mouth is the best way to find them. If you need a DC emergency plumber for instance, you can ask a friend, family member, or a neighbor for a recommendation. You can use the internet as well but in an emergency you may not have the time to do all the extra research that will be required. These tips should help you determine if you’re experiencing a plumbing emergency and how to find a professional plumber to help you.

Bathroom Design Trends For 2017

January 6, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

If you’re thinking of renovating or remodeling your bathroom in the New Year, there are a few popular design trends that you should be aware of. It’s a good idea to hire a professional plumber to give you a hand with your bathroom renovation or remodeling project. A professional plumber will not only be on top of these trends, but can also help you decide which of these trends are right for you.

Smart Storage

Storage should be a major consideration if you’re thinking about renovating or remodeling your bathroom. A professional plumber can help you choose the right cabinets, vanity, or countertop to transform your bathroom. An experienced plumber can help you maximize the existing space in your bathroom as well. Selecting the perfect faucets, fixtures, toilets, and tubs is something else that a professional plumber can assist you with. Staying on schedule and on budget is important too. And a professional plumber can help you make a plan and stick to it.

Dimensional Tile

In addition to making the most of the storage space in your bathroom, selecting the right type of tile is important too. A new trend in bathroom design in 2017 is the use of dimensional tile. Dimensional tile is more water resistant than traditional tile and is available in a wide variety of styles including marble, stone, or porcelain. A professional plumber can help you choose the kind of tile to fit both your design aesthetic of your home and your budget.

Freestanding Tubs

Freestanding tubs are yet another bathroom design trend that’s gaining popularity in the New Year. As the name suggests, freestanding tubs stand on their own and unlike traditional tubs, do not have platforms, surrounds, or steps. A professional plumber can help you decide what type of tub, whether traditional or freestanding is the right choice for you.

Floating Vanities

Instead of opting for a traditional vanity, another popular design choice for your bathroom renovation or remodeling project might be a floating vanity. This might be particularly useful if you have a smaller bathroom because floating vanities create the illusion of space and openness where there is none. Floating vanities are available in a variety of styles and are very practical because of the amount of storage they offer. Unlike a standard vanity, floating vanities can be installed at virtually any height, which makes them a great option for unconventional spaces.

Natural Wood

Many bathrooms are typically white with gray and neutral accents. However, in the New Year, the presence of natural wood in bathrooms is becoming more popular as well. Natural wood can be used in the bathroom cabinetry or in the tile to add a personal touch and create the illusion of the outdoors in your bathroom.

Finding A Professional Plumber In Your Area

There are many ways to find a professional plumber in your area to help you with your bathroom renovation or remodeling project. If you’re in DC for example, you can find a plumbing company in DC by using word of mouth as well as the internet. Consider these bathroom design ideas for your home if you’re thinking of renovating or remodeling your bathroom in 2017.