How Often Should Plumbing Pipes Be Cleaned?

It’s always a good idea to take care of your plumbing before a problem happens because a plumbing problem can turn into an emergency very quickly. You should have your plumbing pipes cleaned every 18 to 22 months or so. If you are already on this kind of cleaning schedule and you’re experiencing problems with your plumbing, then you may need to call a plumber and schedule a pipe inspection.

Our plumbers at Plumbing by Jake conduct pipe inspections by inserting a video camera into your pipes. This helps us see down into the deepest recesses of the pipe so we can better understand what is causing your plumbing issues. From there, we can advise you on what your next steps should be insofar as how to fix the problem.

Ignoring or putting off a plumbing problem can result in water damage at best, and flood damage at worst. Not only can this cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars to fix, but it can also lead to problems with your structure and foundation, not to mention health concerns from mold and mildew buildup.

Don’t put off until tomorrow what Plumbing by Jake can fix today. You can reach us at (928) 723-3395 to schedule your service appointment.

Signs Indicating that Your Plumbing Pipes Need Attention

The first and most obvious sign that your plumbing pipes need attention is that sewer water is backing up into your sinks, tub, or toilet. This can be the result of something as simple as there is a clog in the pipes, but sometimes it can mean there is a more serious problem afoot.

You may also see water where it shouldn’t be, like around the floor drain in your basement or in your bathtub when you run the washing machine. You may smell sewer odors in your house. You may also notice gurgling sounds you’ve never heard before coming from your pipes or recurring clogs that no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to get rid of them.

If any of these things are happening to you, one of the following may be the culprit.

Tree Roots

Sometimes, tree roots will bury their way into your pipes looking for a water source. Tree roots are the number-one cause of sewer pipe back-ups. You must address this problem right away. Once roots grow into your pipes, they don’t stop there. They’ll continue to grow in size until they fill the pipe entirely. They’ll keep growing even after that, breaking the pipes and causing major headaches for you.

Because there is a constant source of water in your pipes this is something you must address quickly, as these roots can grow just as quickly. Our experienced plumbers can tell right away with a video inspection whether tree roots are the cause of all your headaches and can advise you on how best to get rid of them. It’s not always as invasive of a process as you may imagine.

Greasy Sludge

Oh, grease. One of the most common pipe problems next to tree roots. Why? Because many people pour cooking grease down the drain from their burgers, chicken, and other greasy dishes simply because they don’t know what else to do with it. This is the absolute worst thing you can do for your plumbing.

You may think grease goes down the drain with everything else, but you know the way grease will solidify in your refrigerator and hang out in gross, orange clumps on the tops of dishes like meat sauce? The same thing happens in your pipes. After all, it’s not hot down there, so when the grease cools, it solidifies. It then turns into one huge greasy, sludgy clump that doesn’t allow any water to pass through it. Gross.

If this is the case, we can clean your pipes by way of a hydro-jet cleaning. A video inspection of your pipes will tell us for sure if that’s what we need to do.

Saggy Pipes

When we get old, our bodies tend to sag. The same thing happens to pipes. Sagging pipes, or “bellied” pipes, happens when the soil around the pipe loosens and breaks apart. This allows the pipe to sink because the remaining soil around the pipe is not stable enough to hold it where it should.

Now, think about what a sagging pipe looks like. It has a belly to it (hence the name) where waste products can accumulate. Over time, when enough of that waste builds up, it can cause a blockage that can affect your water flow. This, too, we can diagnose with a video inspection.

10 Common Types of Services Offered by Plumbers

Installation

Plumbers are often called to install new plumbing components and products such as dishwashers, toilets, pumps and so on. In some cases, it might be a legal requirement for a plumber to install or sign off on the installation of a component, and this makes it a major component of the plumbing industry.

Drain & Sewer clearing

Drains and sewers endure the brunt of the plumbing demands of a household. This is especially true in large family households, where drains can get blocked by hair and other detritus, or pipes may become blocked by tree roots. This is especially true in older houses with plumbing that has not been renovated since initial installation, as old clay pipes are particularly prone to damage.

Repair and Replace

All components and products do degrade over time, so where a tap, toilet mechanism, hot water unit or other component has failed, a plumber may urgently be called to determine what is at fault, whether it is possible to repair, how best to repair it, and if not, how best to replace it.

Remodelling

Where clients are renovating their home, it is often necessary to remodel kitchens and bathrooms. This requires a plumber to reposition pipework and refit the home as per the client’s requirements.

Gas fitting

Certain plumbers have certification to work on natural gas pipework. This means they are qualified to detect leaks, install new gas pipework and components, as well as repair existing gas pipework.

Water Heater repair

Along with gas fitting, water heaters are a common call-out for plumbers. Very few people are willing to tolerate an ice-cold shower, so when water heaters fail clients require immediate action. Plumbers may be able to detect a fault and repair it, but it may also be necessary to replace the unit, especially if it is more than 10 years old.

Maintenance and checks

Clients may like to get ahead of the curve and invite a plumber to check over the home for any signs of an impending failure or fault. This may involve checking the gas lines, the water heater, drains, toilet flush mechanisms and more. This may also be done prior to the purchase or rental of a property, so clients can know what exactly they are purchasing.

Emergency Plumbing

When plumbing components fail or misbehave, this can often become an emergency. Failure of pipes or drains can cause flooding, failure of toilet flush mechanisms can disable a household, and gas leaks can create serious danger for households. Emergency plumbing is often necessary to prevent permanent damage to a home.

Tap and shower fixture replacement

It’s easy to forget that even taps and showerheads can break and fail. This may manifest as a leak or a complete failure, which will require the mains water to be shut off. Plumbers may be called to replace a seal or replace the entire fixture.

Solar

Solar power can be utilised to power your hot water needs. A qualified plumber can install solar-powered hot water heaters to keep your gas and electrical bills down.

8 REASONS TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER

Your plumbing is one of the most important systems in your home.  Whether you need new plumbing installed during a home renovation, help with a plumbing repair or unexpected plumbing emergency, there are many reasons to hire a professional plumber.  Here are the top 8 reasons:

1. Plumbers know what they’re doing. A Master Plumber has extensive training, knowledge and practical experience.  From the installation of pipes to repairing leaks and other issues, a licensed plumber has the experience and skills to ensure the job done right the first time with permanent results.

2. Plumbers have the proper tools and materials. When you hire a professional plumbing companies they will arrive with all of the tools and materials required for the job.  This saves you hours running back and forth from the hardware store picking up parts and buying tools you’ll never use again.

3. Edmonton plumbing companies offer multiple services. Hiring a professional plumber gives you access to a wide variety of services to install, repair or maintain your plumbing system.  Installing new pipes, replacing old pipes, identify blockages, repairing leaks, installing major appliances – they can take care of all those things for you. Learn how to fix a leaky faucet.

4. Plumbers can find hard-to-find problems with your plumbing. Sometimes a seemingly simple problem like a leaky pipe can have a hard-to-find root cause. Plumbers can more easily find those hidden issues, checking your entire plumbing system to identify the root cause and ensure all repairs are completed so the issue does not reoccur. Learn how to troubleshoot plumbing problems.

5. Professional plumbing services help protect your property. You think you have resolved the plumbing issue, but then come home to a basement or bathroom full of water.  Water can do extensive and expensive damage to your home.  Hiring a professional plumber will ensure those things don’t happen, protecting your property, giving you peace of mind and saving you money from costly repairs.

6. Plumbers can help prevent havoc. Having a plumber come in for repairs and regular check-ups of your plumbing system will not only maintain it’s function, it will also detect problems early before they cause a disaster and expensive damage.

7. Plumbing companies offer on-going customer support. If you’ve had a repair done by a reputable plumbing company, you now have access to expert advice and professional services should you come across another issue or plumbing emergency.  They will be there for you, providing exceptional customer service.

8. Plumbers can save you from an unexpected plumbing emergency! Plumbing emergencies can cause extensive water damage or be incredibly gross!  A professional plumber will offer emergency services and will come to your rescue in a very short period of time.  Most plumbers offer immediate response to your plumbing emergency 24/7.

What Percentage Do Home Improvement Contractors Make on a Job?

General Contracting and the Rule of Thirds

When a leaky pipe needs fixing, a porch needs building, or a house needs remodeling, many homeowners hire a contractor to get the job done. Home improvement contractors are those who agree to fulfill the demands of a contract securing a service between two or more people within the context of the interior remodeling and outdoor living space industry. In any standard contract, money is exchanged for these services, but where do contractors get their price quotes from, and how can you tell if their estimate is legitimate?

Contractors come from many fields and specialize in many different areas, such as framing, trimming, and concrete. There are also general contractors, who tackle big picture jobs like building an addition, constructing a porch, or remodeling a bathroom. Many general contractors have their own crew of laborers to complete the job, and may hire sub-contractors to handle certain specialty tasks.

In exchange for building a new screened porch, fixing up a kitchen, or installing new trim, homeowners make payments towards an amount that is estimated and agreed upon before the work begins. Here is a typical breakdown of total project costs for an average home improvement job:

• 33% goes towards materials. One third of the total project cost usually goes towards materials, including building supplies, fixing, and finishing materials, as well as special tools and job equipment. This price may also include costs to protect existing structures and equipment delivery to and from the site. This portion of cost may be affected by the quality of materials you choose, as well as the complexity of your project.
• 33% goes towards labor. You can expect a third of the project cost to go towards labor. This may include the salary that your contractor pays his work crew and other employees, as well the payment he makes to hired contractors. Major factors affecting labor cost include the complexity, size, and location of the project.
• 33% goes towards gross profit. Some homeowners mistakenly believe that gross profit refers to the amount of money a contractor receives. However, the vast majority of gross profit (typically around 23 to 25 percent) is used to pay overhead expenses.

  Overhead expenses usually cover the general costs of running a business, including legal fees, insurance, accounting, employee expenses, construction management, sales commission, and office expenses. If around 25 percent of gross profit goes towards overhead expenses, a contractor will only make an average of about seven percent in profit from a job. In some cases, a contractor who manages a project exceptionally well may be able to bring this up to 10 percent—but this is rare.

Be wary of any contractor who promises more than five percent discount on a project, as this is a substantial markdown. Contracting a project at a deep discount can be very risky, since the contractor may cut corners in labor and materials to try and make due. In worst case scenario, a contractor may run out of money midway through a project and be unable to see it through to completion. If you are a homeowner, your home may be one of your most valuable assets, and it doesn’t make sense to hire the cheapest contractor you can find to manage its well being.

In the end, a contractor needs to make a gross profit in order to grow and maintain their business. By paying a bit more upfront for a quality contractor upfront, you not only ensure quality work, but less repair and maintenance fees in the long run.

What a General Contractor Does for Home Improvement Projects

What’s a General Contractor?

Collaboration From Mayer Plumbing

If you have a home improvement project on the horizon, then there’s a good chance you’ll need to hire a contractor—or a few. This is because for each home improvement project, there are usually a few different elements that require different specialties. For example, if you’re remodeling your kitchen, you may need to hire a counter guy, a plumber, and a painter. But isn’t there some kind of all-in-one contractor who can tackle it all so you only have to vet and hire one contractor? You’re probably thinking about a general contractor (GC). Let’s discuss what a general contractor is and their role during home improvement projects.

General contractors are responsible for managing virtually all aspects of renovation projects. One of the large tasks that a general contractor is responsible for is sourcing and coordinating subcontractors, who are typically specialists in specific fields of construction and building (like painting, landscaping, or plumbing). But there’s so much more that they do.

A general contractor’s duties include:

• Getting the proper permits to ensure that all work complies with local laws and regulations
• Providing the necessary materials, equipment, and labor for projects
• Estimating costs, controlling project expenses, and managing timelines
• Hiring and overseeing the work of subcontractors with specialized skills
• Monitoring conditions and practices on the worksite to keep everyone safe
• Maintaining worker’s comp and liability insurance
• Keeping the work site secure at all times and organizing the removal of trash and debris
• Ensuring that necessary inspections are completed

Not only do GCs have a lot to do but they also have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders. In fact, they assume responsibility for just about anything that might go wrong on a project. Everything from noncompliance with building codes to property damages and worker injuries. Simply put, if something goes south, it’s the GC’s job to resolve it.

Both by managing projects and handling any issues that arise, general contractors save time and stress for homeowners—and also for real estate agents who are helping their clients prepare their homes to sell.

Beyond their job duties as a project manager, what can general contractors do? GCs can provide services for a variety of project types. Let’s take a look at some.

What does a general contractor do?

Among other construction and building projects, general contractors (with the help of their network of subcontractors) can:

• Repair or install flooring
• Repair a home’s foundation, electrical, plumbing, etc.
• Remodel bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms
• Take care of room additions or change the layout of your home
• Repave driveways and walkways
• Repair damage from pests and water
• Install fencing
• Add or repair decks and patios
• Repair or replace roofing

It’s worth noting that many of these tasks go beyond what your friendly, neighborhood handyman would be able to help with. But how do you know which projects warrant a general contractor?

When to hire a general contractor

GCs are equipped to help with complex projects that require several contractors with specific skill sets. They make sure that the appropriate subcontractors are brought onto your project at the right time and perform the work properly to adhere to safety and quality standards.

So, for example, let’s say that you wanted to knock down a wall to create a large, luxurious master suite. That would be a job for a general contractor since it usually requires a permit and several subcontractors to complete.

Generally speaking, the more complex the project, the more you’ll want to consider hiring a general contractor for safety and peace-of-mind.

5 Ways to Provide the Best Plumber Customer Service

Providing excellent plumber customer service is one of the most important aspects of your business that you can control.

Since a plumbing emergency can occur at any time, without prompt attention, subpar customer service can cause severe damage to properties and disrupt daily operations. Therefore, it is essential to have reliable plumbers who can provide the best plumber customer service.

You’ll discover how to cultivate top plumber customer service in your business and:

• Gain repeat business with a positive reputation
• Attract more referrals and great reviews
• Win more customers to get ahead of the competition

1. Make the Best First Impression

When customers call for plumbing services, they want to feel confident they are dealing with a professional business who can address their needs promptly and efficiently. The first impression customers have of your business is critical because it sets the tone for the entire plumber customer experience.

If customers have a positive experience, they are more likely to recommend your business to others, which can help you grow your customer base.

Excellent plumber customer service starts with a friendly and professional phone interaction. A polite and empathetic team can make customers feel heard and valued. They can assess the urgency of the issue and schedule a prompt appointment.

Take a look at a few of the top ways you can cultivate the best plumber customer service:

• Give first-time customers your best 110% of your best efforts
• Provide a professional, uniform appearance with a clean company truck
• Properly maintain your website and social media presence to establish online presence

2. Establish Trust and Reliability With Customers

Trust and reliability are two crucial components of any successful plumbing business. When customers invite a plumber into their homes or businesses, they need to feel confident that the plumber has the necessary skills and knowledge to fix the issue correctly.

Customers also need to trust that the plumber will be honest and transparent about the work that needs to be done as well as the associated costs.

However, building trust and reliability requires consistent, transparent communication by:

• Explaining the issue and necessary steps in simple, understandable terms
• Providing a detailed estimate of the work with transparency about any potential additional costs
• Being upfront about the costs and timelines to help customers feel more comfortable and confidence in your business

3. Repeat Business and Referrals

Excellent plumber customer service can lead to repeat business and referrals, which are vital to the success of any business.

When customers are satisfied with their experience, they are more likely to call the same plumber the next time they have an issue. They may also recommend the plumber to friends and family who need plumbing services.

However, building a strong customer base requires consistent, exceptional customer service. Plumbers who go above and beyond to address their customers’ needs can create a positive reputation that builds a loyal following.

In addition, implementing a referral offer can further compel customers to choose your business over others.

4. Create a Positive Reputation to Get Great Reviews

In today’s digital age, online reviews can make or break a business.

Potential customers rely on online reviews to make informed decisions about which plumber to hire. Therefore, having positive reviews and a great reputation is critical in attracting new customers to build a successful business.

Providing excellent plumber customer service is one of the best ways to generate positive reviews that help to create a great reputation. After all, customers who are happy with their experience are more likely to leave positive feedback and recommend your services to others.

However, even the best businesses will occasionally get negative reviews. One of the best ways to mitigate the negative impact of these reviews is by providing the right response.

By responding to negative reviews in a polite and professional manner, you help mitigate any damage to show potential customers your business takes customer satisfaction seriously.

Respond quickly, professionally and empathetically by asking them how you can resolve their issue. Though, keep in mind, it’s important to try to take the conversation offline as soon as possible to avoid a public confrontation.

5. Gain a Competitive Advantage

Plumbing is a competitive industry, which is why it’s important for your business to stand out from the competition.

By offering excellent plumber customer service, you can provide a competitive advantage with a positive reputation and a loyal customer base. As a result, customers who have a positive experience are more likely to choose your business and pay premium prices.

Plumbers who invest in customer service training and prioritize customer satisfaction can gain a significant competitive advantage. A business that values its customers and goes the extra mile to ensure their satisfaction can stand out in a crowded market. In turn, your plumbing business can become the go-to plumber for customers in the area.

Ultimately, excellent customer service is not just about fixing plumbing issues; it is about creating a positive customer experience that builds loyalty and trust. By prioritizing customer satisfaction, your business can stand out in a competitive industry to build a successful business.

What is the importance of home improvement?

A home is more than just a shelter or a place to live in; it is an extension of your personality and reflects your lifestyle. It is where you create memories with your loved ones, and it is the place where you feel the most comfortable. Home improvement refers to the process of upgrading or renovating your house to enhance its functionality, comfort, and appearance. Home improvement projects range from simple cosmetic upgrades to major renovations that involve structural changes. In this article, we will discuss the importance of home improvement and how it can benefit homeowners.

1. Increases the value of your home

One of the most significant benefits of home improvement is that it can increase the value of your property. By upgrading your home, you can make it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell it in the future. Renovations like adding a new room, remodeling your kitchen, or upgrading your bathroom can significantly increase the value of your home. According to the National Association of Realtors, home improvement projects can increase the resale value of a home by up to 20%.

2. Enhances energy efficiency

Home improvement projects can also enhance the energy efficiency of your home. By replacing old windows, installing insulation, upgrading your HVAC system, or adding solar panels, you can reduce your energy bills and save money in the long run. Energy-efficient homes are not only better for the environment but also more attractive to potential buyers who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

3. Improves comfort and livability

Another significant benefit of home improvement is that it can improve the comfort and livability of your home. By upgrading your home’s features like lighting, flooring, and heating, you can make it more comfortable to live in. Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom can also make your daily life easier and more enjoyable. Additionally, adding a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen can enhance your outdoor living space and make it more inviting for your family and friends.

4. Increases safety and security

Home improvement projects can also increase the safety and security of your home. By installing security systems, smoke detectors, or carbon monoxide detectors, you can protect your family and property from potential threats. Upgrading your electrical system, plumbing, or HVAC system can also prevent accidents like fires, leaks, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

5. Boosts your mood and productivity

Home improvement can also boost your mood and productivity. By creating a more comfortable and functional space, you can reduce stress and increase your focus. Remodeling your home office or creating a dedicated workspace can improve your work-life balance and increase your productivity. Additionally, upgrading your bedroom or living room can create a more relaxing atmosphere and improve your overall well-being.

6. Provides a sense of pride and accomplishment

Home improvement can also provide a sense of pride and accomplishment. By taking on a home improvement project, you can challenge yourself and learn new skills. Completing a renovation or upgrade can give you a sense of satisfaction and pride in your home. Additionally, a well-maintained and upgraded home can boost your self-esteem and create a positive impression on your guests.

7. Keeps your home up-to-date

Finally, home improvement is essential to keep your home up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. By upgrading your home’s features, you can keep pace with the changing demands of the market and stay competitive. Additionally, by maintaining and upgrading your home, you can prevent potential problems and avoid costly repairs in the future.