Common plumbing issues homeowners face

Homeownership comes with its share of headaches, but one of the worst comes from plumbing issues. The issues can be caused by things like wear and tear or toys blocking a drain. Some plumbing issues can be quickly taken care of yourself, while others may need the help of an expert. Here are a couple of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face.

Leaky Pipes

Leaks may not seem like that big of a deal, but if they long periods without being repaired, they can cause severe damage. The scary thing is that not all leaks are in places that are easily visible, like underneath your home’s slab.

How it Happens: 

There are many causes of leaky pipes. Some of the most common are:

• Broken Seals – When appliances are installed, a contractor places a rubber sealant around any connections to keep everything watertight. If you notice a puddle near your dishwasher, it may be as simple as a broken seal.
• Corrosion – Pipes can also develop corrosion if your water’s pH and mineral content are imbalanced. Corrosion can also be caused by aging; galvanized steel can last for around 20 years, while brass pipes last around 70. 
• Tree Roots – If you have trees in or near your home and you suddenly notice a change in water pressure or a random wet spot in your yard, intruding tree roots may be to blame.
• High Water Pressure – The harder your water hits the inside of your pipes, the more likely you will eventually have a leak. Most pipes and faucets can only withstand a water pressure of 60 psi.

How to Fix It

Each of the above-listed issues has its own resolution. For something simple like a broken seal, you can easily replace the seal yourself.

It is best to call a plumber for bigger problems like tree roots or corrosion. They will likely have to dig around or cut open walls to make replacements.

Clogged Drains and Toilets

Clogged drains and toilets are the most common plumbing issue homeowners have. There is not much that is scarier than a clogged toilet that is starting to overflow. It seems to happen out of nowhere and always at a really inconvenient time. Sinks may begin to slow their drainage overtime before becoming completely clogged, but it is still headache-inducing.

How it Happens: 

A clog occurs when something blocks the drain. In sinks and showers, hair often tends to be the most significant cause. In toilets, when something other than dissolvable waste enters the toilet and gets flushed, it causes it to become clogged. Solid items cannot move through the pipes and get stuck so that water cannot pass through. 

How to Fix It:

You can use a plunger on a drain or a toilet to loosen up the stuck items. Place the plunger’s open end over the drain and move it up and down to create suction. You can also use tweezers or pliers to grab the clump of hair or whatever the culprit may be and remove it from the drain. If a plunger does not work, try a chemical drain cleaner. If that fails, it may be time to call a plumber who will use a camera to see exactly what is causing the back up and get it taken care of. 

Plumbing issues are unwelcomed surprises for any homeowner and should be taken very seriously. They will not just go away on their own and may require professional attention. If you are in need of some plumbing help, we are here for you. Give us a call!