SHOULD YOU DO YOUR OWN PLUMBING?
DIY Plumbing
I will be the first to say, skilled labor can be expensive.
Chances are high, you are not having a great day when the need for plumbing services arises. It could be an overflowing toilet, a frozen pipe or your hot water heater stopped working, nobody looks forward to receiving the invoice after the repair is done.
To make matters worse, everyone knows someone who watched a few Youtube videos and saved hundreds of dollars doing the work themselves. It turned out ok.
Why can’t you do the same?
Actually, you can. With the right amount of training and experience, you can do anything. No one is a natural-born doctor, lawyer, salesman, or plumber. Their skills and abilities are honed from years of experience and training. However, I certainly wouldn’t want someone to perform brain surgery on me if all they have done was watch a few Youtube videos. I am sure you wouldn’t either.
“No, I am not comparing plumbers to doctors.”
However, whether you are a doctor, a lawyer, a concert pianist, or a plumber, you were really bad at it when you first started. It takes time, training, and even supervision to develop and fine-tune your skills. That is why every licensed journeyman plumber had to serve as an apprentice first.
Can you do your own plumbing? Sure, maybe. Watch some YouTube videos, read some books, and practice makes perfect. Practice can also be very costly.
I had a client that tried to save money installing his toilet in his basement bathroom. It would have been a job that would take me less than an hour. He did everything right, until he made one small mistake.
He over-tightened the mounting bolts to the flange the toilet was mounted on and cracked the flange. Every time he flushed the toilet, it would leak from the flange out onto his floor. It was a mess.
When I came in I had to chisel away the concrete on the floor to get access to the pipe and connect a new flange to it. I then had to backfill and replace the concrete I chiseled away and level the surface, before installing the toilet again with a new wax ring. By trying to save a few dollars, this homeowner ended up paying me for four hours of work over two days (the concrete had to be set for 24 hours before reinstalling the toilet)
As a tradesman, it has taken me a lifetime to develop my skills (my father was a plumber, and for as long as I can remember I was on the job helping him, before coming to Atlanta). They continue to develop with ongoing professional development and experience.
Don’t get me wrong, everyone should have some basic skills. When considering a DIY project, however, particularly with plumbing, please put in the work beforehand to develop the knowledge you need to tackle it
I think that everyone should know some basics, at the very least. But if you’re considering a DIY plumbing project, please put in the work.
Water damage to your home is costly to remediate. It takes one little mistake to cost you dearly. So if you are considering a DIY plumbing project, I wish you the best of luck and truly hope it works out well for you.
Before you get started, please watch the video below.
Plumber Causes Major Flood In Apartment
After watching this video, I can say categorically that this was not a licensed plumber that did the job, but someone who had enough knowledge to be dangerous. The customer that hired this individual picked him based on the lowest price and not on his qualifications. As you can see from the video, it had disastrous results.
You get what you pay for.
Some problems just aren’t worth it.
To discover more about the full range of services offered by Azerplumb, LLC, please call our office today at +1 678-750-2300. You can also visit our website at Azerplumb.com
Top 5 Plumbing Issues Homeowners Face in Cumming, GA
Cumming, GA, like many areas in metro Atlanta and North Georgia, presents homeowners with a unique set of plumbing issues. Addressing these problems promptly is crucial to maintaining a healthy home and avoiding costly repairs. From leaky faucets to sewer line backups, understanding these common issues is the first step in protecting your property.
Common Plumbing Issues in Cumming
Homeowners in Cumming often face a range of plumbing problems that require immediate attention. Recognizing these plumbing issues and understanding the importance of professional plumbing services can save you from significant water damage and costly plumbing repair bills. Whether you need residential or commercial plumbing services, knowing the common culprits is essential for every homeowner.
Leaky Faucets and Pipes
Leaky faucets and pipes are frequent plumbing issues in Cumming homes. These leaks, often seemingly minor, can lead to significant water waste and increased water bills. Over time, persistent leaks can cause water damage to floors, walls, and even the foundation of your home. Addressing these plumbing problems promptly with the help of experienced plumbers is essential to prevent further damage and conserve water.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are another common plumbing issue faced by homeowners in Cumming. Hair, food particles, and other debris can accumulate in drain pipes, leading to slow drainage or complete blockages. Ignoring clogged drains can result in unpleasant odors, unsanitary conditions, and potential damage to your plumbing system. Professional drain cleaning servicesfrom local plumbers are often necessary to effectively clear stubborn clogs and maintain proper drainage.
Running Toilets
A running toilet is a frustrating and wasteful plumbing problem that many Cumming homeowners encounter. A toilet that continuously runs can waste a significant amount of water, leading to higher water bills. Common causes of a running toilet include a faulty flapper valve, a malfunctioning fill valve, or an issue with the float mechanism. Addressing this plumbing issue promptly by either DIY repair or calling a plumber is essential to conserving water and reducing costs.
Emergency Plumbing Services
Finding an Emergency Plumber in Cumming
When a burst pipe or other urgent plumbing problems strike, finding a reliable emergency plumber in Cummingis paramount. Look for plumbing services that offer 24/7 availability and a quick response time to mitigate significant water damage. An emergency plumber should be licensed, insured, and have years of experience handling plumbing emergencies in residential and commercial properties throughout Cumming and surrounding areas.
When to Call for Emergency Plumbing
Knowing when to call for emergency plumbing is crucial for homeowners and businesses alike. Several situations require immediate attention. These include:
- A burst pipe causing flooding, which can lead to significant water damage.
- A sewer line backup posing health risks, requiring prompt professional intervention.
These plumbing emergencies require the expertise of an emergency plumber to prevent further harm to your home’s plumbing.
Cost of Emergency Plumbing Services
The cost of emergency plumbing services in Cummingcan vary depending on the nature and complexity of the plumbing problems. Factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and the extent of the repair can influence the final bill. While emergency plumbing repair may be more expensive than scheduled plumbing services, addressing the plumbing issues promptly can prevent further water damage and costly repairs in the long run.
Water Heater Problems
Signs of a Failing Water Heater
Recognizing the signs of a failing water heater is essential for Cumming homeowners to avoid unexpected cold showers and potential water damage. Common indicators include the following:
- Inconsistent hot water
- Rusty or discolored water
- Unusual noises coming from the water heater
- Visible leaks around the tank
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call experienced plumbers for a water heater inspection.
Repair vs. Replacement of Water Heaters
When faced with water heater problems, homeowners often wonder whether to repair or replace their existing unit. The decision depends on factors such as the age of the water heater, the extent of the damage, and the cost of repair. In general, if the water heateris over ten years old or requires extensive repairs, replacement may be the more cost-effective option for your home’s plumbing in the long run.
Choosing the Right Water Heater
Selecting the right water heater is a crucial decision for homeowners and businesses in Cumming. Factors to consider include the size of your household, your hot water usage habits, and your budget. Options range from traditional tank water heaters to tankless water heaters, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Local plumbers in Cumming can assess your plumbing needs and recommend the best water heater for your home.
Understanding Pipe Issues
Identifying Burst Pipes
Identifying burst pipes early is critical for homeowners in Cumming to minimize water damage and prevent costly repairs. Several indicators can point to a burst pipe, including:
- A sudden decrease in water pressure.
- The sound of running water when no fixtures are turned on.
- The presence of water stains on walls or ceilings.
Immediate action is crucial when a burst pipe is suspected to mitigate potential damage to the home’s plumbing. Calling an emergency plumber ensures swift repair and prevents further flooding.
Common Causes of Pipe Bursts
Several factors can contribute to pipe bursts in Cumming homes. Due to freezing temperatures during the winter months, water inside pipes can freeze and expand, causing the pipes to burst. Corrosion, age, and high water pressure can also weaken pipes over time, making them more susceptible to bursting. Tree roots invading sewer lines can lead to blockages and increased pressure, ultimately causing a burst. Understanding these common causes allows homeowners to take preventative measures.
Preventative Measures for Pipe Maintenance
Homeowners in Cumming can take several preventative measures to avoid pipe bursts and maintain a healthy plumbing system. Insulating exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces, can prevent freezing during cold weather. Regularly inspecting pipes for leaks or signs of corrosion is essential. Additionally, managing water pressure and addressing any plumbing problems promptly can help prevent pipe bursts and significant water damage to your home.
Sewer Line Concerns
Signs of a Problematic Sewer Line
Recognizing the signs of a problematic sewer line is crucial for homeowners in Cumming to prevent costly and unsanitary plumbing repairs. Common indicators include frequent drain clogs, slow drainage throughout the house, gurgling sounds coming from drains, and the presence of sewage odors in the yard or basement. A sewer line backup can also manifest as multiple clogged fixtures. Addressing these plumbing problems early on can save homeowners from extensive damage.
Repairing and Replacing Sewer Lines
When faced with sewer line issues, homeowners often consider whether to repair or replace the existing sewer line. Repairing a sewer line may be an option for minor damage or isolated issues, while replacement is typically necessary for extensive damage, collapsed pipes, or root intrusion. Sewer line repair involves methods like pipe relining or spot repairs, whereas sewer line replacement involves replacing the entire run of pipe. Local plumbers can assess the damage and determine the most appropriate solution for the home.
Choosing Plumbing Services for Sewer Issues
Selecting the right plumbing services for sewer issues is essential for homeowners and businesses in Cumming. Look for plumbing services with years of experience in sewer line repair and replacement. Experienced plumbers should be licensed, insured, and equipped with the necessary tools and technology to diagnose and resolve sewer line problems efficiently. Whether you need a simple repair or a complete sewer line replacement, choosing reputable plumbing services ensures quality workmanship and long-lasting solutions for your home’s plumbing.