How To Handle Your Home Repairs Here In D.C.

April 22, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advicematt

If you own a home here in the D.C. area, you will likely have to deal with home repairs at some point, if you haven’t already. Having to make repairs can be costly and inconvenient, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can make it much more manageable. This article will guide you through some of the common repairs that D.C. homeowners make, so that the next time something breaks, you are ready.

Plumbing Repairs

DC plumbing repairs are a necessary part of owning a home in this area. Some major plumbing repairs that you might need to make include fixing broken pipes, unclogging drains, and dealing with sewer backups. If you end up needing to make major plumbing repairs, it is not recommended that you try to undertake these yourself, as you could wind up being in way over your head very quickly. Rather, you should call a plumber in the local D.C. area to come help you out. If you are new to the area and do not know of any D.C. plumbers, try searching online to find the best plumber in your part of town. You can also ask some of your friends and neighbors who they have used.

Roofing Repairs

It is important that roofing repairs are made quickly, in order to protect your home from the occasionally nasty weather here in D.C. Repairing or replacing a roof can be a very expensive endeavor, often costing thousands of dollars. This is why it is important that you comparison shop, getting several different quotes from various D.C. roofers. It is also recommended that you set some money aside for when your roof needs repaired or replaced, so that you are not cash-strapped or in debt when the time comes.

Window Repairs

The elements here in D.C. can do a number on your windows. For that matter, so can kids. If you have a broken pane of glass in one (or more) of your windows, you can call a glass company to come out and replace it for relatively cheap. Such companies often provide same-day service. If an entire window needs replacing – due to wear and tear or other factors – you will need an actual window company to come out and give you some estimates. As with roofing, this is another expensive purchase, but it is essential for protecting your home from the elements.

Appliance Repairs

There are many appliance repair companies here in D.C. who will be able to come out and fix your appliances if they stop working. Services might include repairs to your oven, repairs to your refrigerator, repairs to your dishwasher, or repairs to your washer and dryer. If your appliances are in bad enough shape, it might make more financial sense to replace them altogether. Luckily, many D.C. area appliance repair companies offer this option as well. Give one a call and discuss what your best options are the next time you need a major appliance repair.

Read These Helpful Tips Before You Begin Your Next D.C. Plumbing Repair

April 18, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issues, Water Heatersmatt

For most D.C. homeowners, plumbing issues happen when you least expect them, and they seem to happen at the worst possible times. Repairs can be costly, but knowing where to turn can make your plumbing repair less painful and less expensive. Read the tips below to find out how to make the most out of a bad situation, so that the next time you need a plumbing repair here in Washington, D.C., you will be ready.

Have Your Plumbing Inspected

The best way to handle plumbing repairs is to take care of any potential plumbing issues before they become major disasters. Many plumbing issues stem from worn out, corroded pipes, and clogs are often caused by buildup over time. If you suspect that you have a problem with your pipes, or even sewer line, call a local plumber here in D.C. to come over and perform an inspection. Just don’t be surprised if the plumber brings a camera! Camera inspections are the latest, most high-tech method of examining plumbing. During this inspection, a tiny camera is lowered into your pipes, and any issues that are happening are recorded in real-time. This gives you clear evidence of what is going on with your plumbing. Depending on what the inspection reveals, the plumber may need to make repairs, or even a full replacement. It is best to get a jump start on this as soon as you suspect that there is a problem.

Plumbing Appliance Repair

You may have trouble with specific appliances within your home. Try and find a plumber who specializes in servicing that appliance. For example, you might need to find a plumber who provides water heater repair in DC, or a local plumber who provides dishwasher repair. If your appliance is truly on its last leg, your plumber might recommend replacing it entirely. It is a good idea to have money set aside for such replacements, so you are not forced to charge them to a credit card. Keep in mind, a problem with an appliance could be caused by a larger problem within your plumbing system. For example, what seems like a problem with your toilet could actually be a problem with your main sewer line. Your plumber should be able to determine this during inspection.

Emergency Plumbing Repairs

No one likes to think of plumbing emergencies, but unfortunately (despite our best efforts at prevention) they do happen. This is why it is important to have the contact information of a reputable plumber who provides 24-hour service. This way, if water starts pouring out of your ceiling at three o’clock in the morning, you know who to call. Many plumbers in a city like Washington, D.C. offer this exact kind of service. Knowing that there is someone you can call any time if a true plumbing emergency arises should give you great peace of mind.

How To Handle Your Commercial Remodel Here In D.C.

April 12, 2017Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advicematt

Have you been thinking about remodeling your business here in the Washington, D.C. area? This is a big decision, but it is one that can lead to huge growth for your company. Before you invest in a substantial commercial remodel, read some of the tips below. Whether you are looking to add extra space to your existing office, combine rooms for a more open feel, or redecorate your office space, this article has you covered.

Adding Space To Your Existing Office

Given the soaring prices of real estate here in the D.C. area, many local business owners are opting to expand their existing office space, rather than purchase new property. Making such a renovation is a very complicated, costly, and time consuming endeavor, involving the work of local architects, electricians, D.C. commercial plumbing services, and contractors in the Washington area. That said, making such an expansion to either your warehouse or your office can be a great way to meet your company’s space-saving needs without having to purchase commercial real estate. You and your employees might have to make some adjustments to the daily work routine while renovations are going on, but at least you will not need to pack up and relocate completely!

Opening Up The Space In Your Office

Perhaps your office has enough space to meet your operating needs, but it needs some rearranging. If this is the case, you are certainly not alone. These days, many businesses are choosing to open up more space: knocking down walls to create shared offices, or even doing away with offices altogether and setting up cubicles for all employees. There are a few advantages to this approach. For one, it allows you to accommodate a growing workforce, as it ensures you will have the space for new employees. Additionally, many business owners and employees find that creating a more open space also creates more open communication. Since communication is a key aspect of any successful business, there is a very good chance that opening up the space in your office will increase productivity. Finally, having a space in which there are no offices helps erase some of the division between management and lower-level employees. Companies where management is more accessible tend to run much more smoothly and efficiently.

Redecorating Your Office

This is one of the easier changes you can make, as these renovations are often cosmetic in nature. If employees and customers find your office space to be drab and uninspiring, try sitting down with an interior decorator here in the D.C. area and coming up with ideas. A good interior decorator will help you make the most out of your space, while creating an environment that is most conducive to your particular business. If such an endeavor sounds too costly, try searching online for some good office decorating ideas. Even simple, low-cost measures, like painting walls and hanging up motivational pictures can make a huge difference. Having the right space can do wonders to your bottom line.

Pipe Cleaning Techniques Used To Clear Clogged Drains

April 10, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

Pipe cleaning is not what it used to be. These days, plumbers have access to modern technology to assist them with clearing out clogged drains. The piping systems in older homes differ from those in newer dwellings. Due to these differences, clogged pipes may need to be unclogged differently.

Traditional unclogging methods were to use a large snake to push the item clogging the pipe through the system. Large snakes are still used, but in older homes they can over-stress the plumbing, leading to more issues. Leaks and other extensive repairs may be required if a snake is used to unclog a drain in an older home.

Two advanced technologies used by professional DC drain services include power-rodding and hydro-jetting. Only a professional drain service can unclog drains in this matter. Specialized training is required, to ensure the machine is being used properly.

What Is Power-Rodding?

Power-rodding is an innovative technology that emulates the design of a traditional plumber’s snake. Although the design may be the same, the tasks that can be accomplished with this tool are modern. It not only unclogs the pipes, but it also cleans them. When using the tool, a plumber will thread the pipe into the drain, to locate the clog.

Once in the drain, the tiny razor blades on the outer surface of the tool will go to work. An electric motor rotates the tools cable at high speeds. The sharp blades scour the walls of the pipe, while also eliminating the clog in the line. The clog and sludge build up is broken down into tiny pieces, and flushed out of the system.

The Hydro-Jetting Technique

Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to flush out clogs and clean out the pipes at the same time. A plumber will thread the tool into the pipe, and turn the water on. The cleaning head on the opposing end of the lines precision nozzles, discharge water at 3500 psi.

The pressure provided by the water, acts like a knife, cutting through any obstructions within the piping system. This method will not only clear out a clog, but it also removes any sludge in its path. The force of the water breaks down the clog and sludge into small particles, flushing it through the piping system.

Does Specialized Equipment Have To Be Used To Clean All Clogs?

Clogged drains are a common plumbing dilemma. Most people resort to calling a professional service when they are not able to remedy the problem on their own. Even though professional equipment can be used to clear clogs from a clogged line, it is not always necessary.

Usually power-rodding and hydro-jetting are used on cleaning pipes in older homes. The piping systems in older homes are delicate. Time can cause the pipes to rust or break away, making the task of cleaning a clog difficult. Advanced technologies are employed for these types of services. Small clogs will still warrant the plumber to use a traditional snake. The equipment used to clear out a clogged drain can impact the cost of the drain cleaning service.

Increase The Value Of Your Home With A Bathroom Remodel

April 8, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Selling a home can be hard. If you want to get the most money out of the sale, you may need to remodel the place. The condition of your bathroom can impact the value of your home. Even though the bathroom is not the focal point of a home, its condition can affect the offer made on your home. An outdated bathroom can be the difference between getting top dollar for your home or not.

Why Is The Bathroom Important?

Most people do not see the value in remodeling the bathrooms in their homes. While you should remodel visual parts of your home first, the bathroom should not be ignored. Bathrooms are ignored in most cases, due to tight remodeling budgets. You do not want prospective buyers to step into a time warp every time they enter the space.

When performing DC bathroom remodeling tasks, the room must be updated to match the style of the rest of the home. Buyers want to buy homes that are turn-key. They want to be able to move their stuff into the dwelling, and not have to worry about updating it to their style. Remodeling the bathroom will give your home an edge over other homes on the market.

Considerations To Make When Remodeling The Bathroom

When remodeling your bathroom, there are a few things to consider. You need to decide if you are going to do a few simple repairs to spruce up the area, or an entire remodel. Simple things that can make changes in the bathroom are painting the walls and changing out the tile. With a large remodel, you will completely revamp the appearance of the area.

If your bathroom has not been remodeled in a while, you should opt for an entire remodel. Completely remodeling the area will require you to purchase new furnishings. A new toilet, tub, sink, and showerhead should be purchased for the remodel. The cost of these fixtures can impact the cost of your home.

For example, if you purchase a high-quality tub, the cost of this appliance can be added to the home’s value. If high-end furnishings fit within your remodeling budget, they should be used. Their appeal can be the deciding point between a buyer choosing to buy or walk.

Should You Hire A Professional?

With all the DIY television shows and websites, most people believe that they can remodel their bathrooms without using a professional. The extent of the remodel will dictate if a professional is needed. If you are going to be completely remodeling the area, a professional plumbing service is needed.

The bathroom can be a dangerous place, if the remodel is not handled correctly. Remember that both water and electricity run into the room. If you do not know what you are doing the remodeling project could become hazardous, quickly.

A professional remodeling service has the skills to complete the remodel safely. Professional companies are aware of what the housing codes are for your area. They will ensure that they receive the proper permissions to perform the work, and that it is done properly.

Three Features To Consider When Choosing A Showerhead

April 6, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Energy Efficiency, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Showers have an impact on our daily lives. They can be used as a tool to set the tone for the day, provide a resting place at night, or refuge from daily stress. The right type of shower head can make a difference when it comes to reaping the benefits of this enjoyable task.

Finding the right type of showerhead to use when performing DC plumbing renovations can be overwhelming. Before beginning your search, there are a few things that need to be considered. The water conditions of your home, water pressure, and your budget should be taken into consideration, prior to making a purchase.

Most people that choose to update their showerheads during a renovation will want the heads to perform specific tasks. These tasks include saving water, offering varying spray options, and filtering chemicals and toxins out of the water. Finding the right type of showerhead for your renovation project is important.

Saving Water

Appliances that are water efficient are popular these days. However, state and federal regulations dictate what types of appliances can be used in each state. Opt for a showerhead that uses no more than two gallons of water per minute. Checking with a local company offering water conditioning and plumbing services can ensure you get the best appliances to fit your needs.

Spray Options

Our wants and needs change daily, it only makes sense that our showerheads adhere to our moods. After a stressful day, you may choose to get into a light and relaxing shower. Or after a long workout, you may want to feel like you are standing underneath a waterfall, and increase the pressure of the spray.

The good thing about modern technology is you can get a showerhead that offers multiple spraying options. Most models have a minimum of three spray patterns to choose from. This puts you in control of how the water from your shower will hit your body.

Filter Chemicals And Toxins Out Of The Water

Most adults are aware of the chemicals that are used to filter water. Even though the water that is brought into a home has gone through a chemical cleaning process, toxins do get left behind. Water treatment facilities need to ensure the water is safe to drink and use, they do not have to ensure that it is chemically clear.

Chlorine is one chemical that is used to clean water. Most people who are sensitive to chlorine should consider having a showerhead that filters the water. Sprite showerheads are the most common type of showerhead used that filters harmful chemicals from the water. The showerhead will filter chlorine, lead, sediment, and odors.

Plumbing renovations can be fun, if they are being done because of a want and not a need. There are lots of advanced appliances that can be installed in the space. The appliances are designed to make your bathroom experience enjoyable. The showerhead is one thing that gets overlooked in many renovation projects.

Showering is an integral part of the day, and should be enjoyed. This is time for yourself to either get yourself ready to start your day, or relax yourself before going to bed. Picking the right type of showerhead with the features that you want can make all the difference.

How To Check Your Home For Leaks

April 4, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

A plumbing leak can lead to an excessive amount of water waste. A plumbing leak can cause anywhere from 2000 to 20,000 gallons of water waste per year. The leak can result in structural damage, mold, and insanity. Many plumbing leaks are not visible, making them difficult to detect.

An increased water bill, or a water stain on the walls or ceiling, can signify the presence of a leak. Some leaks can easily be rectified, while others cannot. It is important as a homeowner that you know how to inspect your home for leaks. If you do notice a leak, contact a DC emergency plumber promptly.

Locating Indoor Leaks

The best way to determine if you have an indoor leak is to check your appliances and fixtures. Toilets are the most common cause of a leak. Toilet leaks can be difficult to detect, if they are not properly tested. While searching your bathroom for leaks, aside from checking the toilet and fixtures, also check the tub and flooring. Any flooring that appears to be curled up, stained, or lose can alert you of a problem.

The Tub And Shower

Aside from the toilet, the second common cause of leaks is the drain in the tub or shower. These leaks are common due to the way that the piping systems are set up. Connections to the tub and shower can separate, which will allow water to leak out of the draining body, and onto the floor. People who have shower pans or fiberglass tubs are at a higher risk of developing a leak in this portion of their home.

Indoor Sinks

Sinks will experience leaks around their rim. A leaking rim can cause damage to the cabinets and countertops. Look for stains or puddles accumulating by the sink. If there are pieces of your countertop pulled up, or the caulk around your sink is deteriorating, these are telltale signs that the sink is leaking. Before calling a professional to fix the issue, make sure that the sink is tightly sealed.

Finding Outdoor Leaks

Locating an outdoor leak can be daunting. If the leak is in a swimming pool, this can make the process even more tedious. One way to determine if your swimming pool is wasting any water, as the result of a leak, is to perform a bucket test.

Grab a bucket, and set it down onto a step in the pool. Fill the bucket to match the water line of the pool. Mark the water levels along the side and the outside of the bucket. Keep the bucket in place for twenty-four hours. Once twenty-four hours has passed, come back to your pool, and see if the water has receded underneath the lines that were drawn.

Sprinkler Systems

If you use a sprinkler or irrigation system, you will need to check this area for leaks also. Checking the system is easy. Simply turn the water on, and keep an eye on all the lines and heads of the system. There are some systems that will leak when the water is off, which signifies a valve is malfunctioning.

Warning Signs Of A Clog In The Sewer Line

April 2, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

Chances are, if you have a clog in your sewer line, you will not be able to see it. Sewer clogs can cause an extensive amount of damage. Most homeowners are aware that sewer lines help transport waste from the home into sewer mains located underground. Beyond this, homeowners do not give any thought to their homes sewage system, until something goes wrong.

Clogs within the sewer lines can cause raw sewage to backup into other drains around the home. As the other drains clog with waste, the damages that occur can be massive. Not to mention, the longer a homeowner waits to fix a sewage issue, the more expensive the repair. Homeowners that acknowledge warning signs quickly can eliminate expensive repairs. There are a few things that homeowners need to pay attention to.

Clogged Drains Or Toilets

A common red flag that signifies a possible sewer problem is water coming back up out of the drain. Gurgling sounds may accompany the issue, as the water raises to the surface of the sink or tub. According to DC sewer services, your home will speak to you if there is a sewage issue.

In a residence, all plumbing lines run together. If you start noticing after using your washing machine, that the toilets start making noises, or there is water around the basement floor drain, this could be a sign of a sewage problem. Most clogs will occur within the main sewer line or in one of the secondary lines supporting it.

Tree Roots

Tree roots are another common cause for clogged sewer lines. This occurs a lot in older homes. In newer homes, clogs commonly occur due to feminine hygiene products, thick toilet paper, or paper towels, being flushed down the toilet. Older pipes are different from newly laid pipes.

In places where vegetation is abundant, tree roots can crush piping systems. Remember, older piping systems were not built like modern systems. Overtime, the pipes will start to deteriorate, requiring them to have to be replaced. Slow flowing drains, and gurgling sounds coming from toilet bowls are the first signs to tell if the clog is caused by tree roots.

Shut Off The Water Source

If there is a clog in your plumbing system, and you suspect that the issue is caused by a sewer drain, there is one thing you must do first. You need to shut off the water at the source of the problem. If you do not know where the source of the issue is coming from, simply turn all water off in your home.

Homeowner that can access the sewer cleanout line in their homes can remove the cap to release the pressure in the line. The sewer cleanout line is normally a round, short, white pipe that has a rubber cap on top of it. Releasing this line will force the water that is clogged in the pipe, to be released outside, instead of coming back into your residence.

To maintain the sewage system in your home, fill your sinks to the top twice a month, and then let them drain. The added pressure ensures proper flow. This will help move any waste that is trapped in the line.

How To Fix A Smelly Drain

March 28, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Considering the tasks that they carry out, it is miraculous that our sanitation systems do not smell up a home. The good thing is when operating properly, they do not. If your drains suddenly start dispersing a smell, this could mean one of two things. Your drains are clogged, and sewer gas is present. Generally, resolving a smelly drain issue is not difficult.

How To Determine Where The Smell Is Coming From

Before attempting to resolve the issue, you need to identify which drain is releasing the pungent odor. To determine which drain is causing the problem, cover the suspected drain with a plastic bag or some tape. This should prevent the smell from escaping, if this is the drain causing the issue. Once the culprit has been identified, you can either call DC drain and sewer service or attempt to fix the problem on your own.

Clogged Drains

Drains that are clogged or possess lots of gunk can carry a smell. There are a few ways to determine if this is the culprit. A slow drain is one way to determine if this is the cause for the smell. Drains that are partially clogged will not be able to eliminate waste properly, which will lead to buildup in the pipes.

This could eventually lead to a severe problem, if it is not dealt with promptly. A foul odor in the air is usually the first sign that crud buildup could be the culprit. The bathroom sink, kitchen sink, and shower are all areas that are prone to clogs.

Sewer Gas Is In The Air

If it smells like raw sewage in your home, that is exactly what it is. Every drain in your residence should have a trap device. A trap is a U-shaped piping piece that holds onto a small amount of water. The amount of water held by the pipe creates a plug that prevents sewage gases from rising out of the drain.

There are a few reasons why these gases may escape into a residence. One reason is there was not a trap installed in the piping system. If no trap is installed, you will smell gas always. If the drain has not been properly vented, this can cause a suction effect, forcing gases to release into your home.

Clogs Can Be Tough

Most people upon initially encountering a stinky sink will pour some chemical down it to eliminate the odor. If you suspect that the problem is a clog, chances are you may pour some drain cleaner down into the pipes to unclog it yourself. The problem is if there is a clog, then the drain cleaner will not do anything.

The only thing the cleaner will do is turn your home into a chemical site. This is the reason why plumbers choose to use snakes or pressurized water to eliminate the clog, not chemicals. In ordinary clogs, these simple things can fix the problem. The next time that you assume that a stinky drain may be caused by a clog, do not attempt to use chemicals to treat the problem. Instead, call a professional plumber to fix the problem for you.

Five Crazy Things People Do To Ruin Their Plumbing

March 26, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Energy Efficiency, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

If you are searching for a career with job security, consider becoming a plumber. This advice is based on two inevitable truths. First, people are always going to need access to plumbing that works properly. Also, people are always going to do questionable things to stop their plumbing from functioning correctly. Keep in mind that being a plumber is an admirable job.

The crazy things that people do to ruin their plumbing can be remarkable. There are five things that create plumbing issues that can be avoided. To some, avoiding a plumbing issue may seem like common sense. There are people that are unaware of what they should do to maintain their homes’ plumbing systems correctly.

Do Not Leave Hoses Connected In The Wintertime

Leaving a hose connected to the water faucet outside is a common plumbing error. Unlike Christmas lights, water hoses can damage your plumbing, if not removed during colder seasons. If the hose freezes onto the spout, this can impact the faucet and the supply line. Not to mention, you will have to replace your hose as well.

Do Not Use Lots Of Drain Cleaners

When used properly, drain cleaners can effectively help clear clogged drains. But anything can be hazardous when it is used in excess. If too much drain cleaner is used, it can corrode the drain materials, and make the clog worse.

Do Not Pour Grease Down The Kitchen Drain

Most people can recall watching their mothers or grandmothers cooking, and pouring the grease from their meals into the kitchen sink. If this has become a habit for you, stop doing it. Pouring grease down your sink can destroy your piping system. Grease is one of the most common reasons why drains clog.

Do Not Put Anything Into Vent Pipes

Most people do not understand what the significance of a vent pipe is. There have been people who have run electrical lines such as television cable into their homes through their plumbing vent pipes. Contrary to widespread belief, vent pipes do serve a purpose.

The pipes are put into place to allow air to flow through the drains. This helps to promote drainage, and prevent suction. The air flow also helps eliminate sewer gases that come through the sewer main. If a hole is cut through the vent pipes, sewer air will seep into your home, requiring you to call on sewer services in DC to fix the issue.

Do Not Throw Trash In Your Toilet

Not throwing trash into a toilet seems like common sense. But one of the most common reasons why plumbers are called into a residence is to fix a clogged toilet that is caused by an object. There are lots of people that believe if they flush something down the toilet, they will be rid of it forever.

When something is flushed down the toilet, it does not disappear into the great beyond. Instead, it will lead to a drain pipe that is roughly three inches around. This pipe leads into a different drain pipe that controls the drainage in your entire home. Trash can accumulate in one space, causing a huge clog in your entire piping system.