Is Your Older Home A Ticking Time Bomb?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of new plumbers will surge 21% by 2022, which means there will be more than 80,000 new plumbing jobs. So why is our industry doing so well? We’re keeping busy with these 5 common sources of plumbing repairs.

1. Leaky Faucets and Plumbing Fixtures

Up to 30% of toilets have some kind of leak. And since a single defective faucet dripping once every second will waste 3,000 gallons of water a year (and waste money with the utility company besides), it’s crucial to stop leaks and drips as soon as you find them. And that’s doubly true for Californians or any other region suffering through a drought.

2. Tree Roots

The place where two pipes meet is called the joint or seam, and tree roots love to tap into your water system at the joint of the pipes. In fact, in homes built before the 1970s, it’s the number one cause of plumbing repairs. Tree roots can break and clog your pipes, requiring expensive repairs or replacements.

3. Mysteries

Sometimes the source of a plumbing problem isn’t obvious right away, in which case we will utilize one of the most important tools in the plumber toolkit, the drain video diagnostics camera. When plumbers want to check for clogs, leaks, broken pipes, or infringing tree roots we’ll use a sewer snake-like device to feed a camera through your pipes looking for the cause of the plumbing issues. This can prevent unnecessary plumbing work and excavation, and save home owners money in the long run.

4. Wear and Tear

Nothing lasts forever, and pipes are no exception. And the simple fact of the matter is if you live in an older home with an older pipe system, eventually your pipes will just give out. They could rust, break, or just reach the end of their natural life. When this happens, it might be time for a total replacement. That’s why Angie’s List says to immediately inspect your pipes if your house is 40 or more years old.

If you’re encountering these or any other common types of plumbing issues, don’t hesitate to contact us ASAP! We’re available 24 hours a day at 561-310-6435.

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