Plumbing plays a crucial role in the health and safety of our homes. Unfortunately, there are many things that can cause extremely costly damage to it. From tree roots growing too close to the sewer system to collecting things other than toilet paper that get flushed down the toilet, damage can be done without us even knowing it’s happening.
However, by staying informed on the most common perpetrators and their respective preventative measures, we can significantly reduce the peril our plumbing faces. Taking some proactive steps such as periodically checking existing drainage systems, making sure no bushes or trees grow too close to them, and keeping foreign objects away from our pipes are all great ways to protect your home’s plumbing system from disaster.
Your Plumbing System
Your plumbing system is one of the most important components of your home, yet it is both underappreciated and neglected. Many homeowners are unaware of how integral their plumbing system is until something malfunctions or causes them inconvenience.
Unfortunately, little or no attention to one’s home plumbing can be quite costly in the long run, as the resulting damage caused by a malfunctioning system can result in repairs or even expensive replacements. It pays to stay informed about your home plumbing and maintenance routinely for peace of mind.
Chemicals Cause Damage
Homeowners need to be aware that attempting to unclog drains with chemicals can often result in further damage to the pipes themselves. It should always be a last resort as many of these chemicals are incompatible with older piping and can eventually wear through, exacerbating the initial clog or stopping up other areas of the plumbing line.
A professional plumber is best for difficult blockages, yet there are some ways around calling a plumber if the homeowner feels comfortable doing so. An all-natural baking soda and homemade vinegar remedy can do wonders for stubborn clogs in sinks and tubs. Toilet fresheners also present a problem, as whatever pieces may break away will not dissolve quickly and leave a residue behind. Instead of risking distress later on down the line, it is better to invest in reliable brands found on store shelves.
DRAIN CLEANING SERVICES
Your Plumbing Fixes Often Makes Matters Worse
When it comes to plumbing, the adage “You get what you pay for” often holds true. From broken pipes to clogged drains, hiring a professional plumber can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean tackling a job on your own is a good idea. It takes experience and knowledge to do challenging jobs like joining two different metal pipes together or ensuring tight connections without over-tightening them.
Even remembering something as basic as turning off the water before starting a project can sometimes be overlooked in the rush of excitement to complete a task. Before taking on any plumbing endeavor, no matter how small, it’s important to get bids from several plumbers and hire one that has a reputation for quality work. Taking care of your water woes now will help avoid more serious problems in the future.
Grease Is A Common Culprit
Greases might seem like a harmless consequence of various cooking projects, but if you fail to treat your plumbing system properly, they can cause serious problems. Grease buildup can be particularly frustrating because it narrows your pipes and corrodes them from the inside out, causing costly plumbing repairs that no one wants to deal with.
Fortunately, you don’t have to give up cooking for fear of clogged drains. The key is to properly dispose of the grease after use – instead of pouring it down the drain or throwing it away in liquid form, let it solidify inside a glass container before disposing of it in the garbage. This practice will keep your plumbing system running smoothly and save you from potential headaches down the road.
Tree Roots Are A Threat
Protecting your plumbing system from tree roots can be a challenge; if the tree is too close to the lateral line of your home, it can spell disaster. Tree roots will always search for water, and unfortunately, underground pipes are usually the best target. Not only do they create blockages that cause drain backups and expensive repairs, but they can also puncture and break down sewer pipes, leading to long-term contamination issues.
To avoid this issue, it is important not to plant trees in close proximity to your lateral line. Additionally, consider replacing small trees around your property at least once every two years to help maintain a healthy drainage system.
Freezing Temperatures
The winter season may be a beautiful display of snowflakes and cozy fireplaces, but it can also be very hard on your plumbing system. While insulation can help cushion the blow, living in an area with severe winters can easily leave exposed pipes vulnerable to freezing temperatures – which could mean big trouble.
When pipes freeze, there’s a high chance that they’ll burst, causing damage to your home and a hefty plumbing bill. Avoiding this disaster is as easy as properly winterizing your home before the cold temperatures hit. Taking the time now to prepare can save you from a lot of future headaches, so don’t wait – make sure that your plumbing system is ready for whatever winter throws its way.
Serving Northern Virginia For Over 15 Years
Kinnett Plumbing is your go-to resource if you’re looking for a reliable plumbing service in Northern Virginia. Serving the area for more than 15 years means that we have both the experience and knowledge necessary to handle any residential or commercial plumbing job. We also keep up with the latest technologies and use top-of-the-line equipment to ensure a properly completed job. Kinnett Plumbing has earned a reputation as one of Northern Virginia’s most respected plumbing services, so when it comes to all of your plumbing needs, you can count on us.
