In South Florida, the threat of water leaks and the growth of toxic mold can cause concern to any home owner. By understanding some of the common causes of water leaks and routinely following simple maintenance, the root of the problem can be detected before any damage is done. Leakages occurring in various plumbing fixtures and appliances tend to be one of the leading causes of water leaks. There are several common sources in the home. The bathroom is notorious for water leaks in the home. Plumbing in the sinks, toilet, and showers can become clogged. Hair, toilet paper, and children's toys can be the culprit. Slower drainage will become evident and will eventually lead to water leaks and overflow, which can cause serious problems. Because the bathroom tends to be a humid and moist location in the home, care should be taken. Cracks in old grout can cause shower leaks. By checking to make sure the cracks are dry, one can prevent toxic mold under the tiles. Toilets can also be a tricky area, as the bowls are never dry. The possibility for leaks here is great. Monthly maintenance can help prevent any problems by checking the piping connections and ensuring the areas are dry. In the home, it is usually safe to assume that there is no mold when there is no moisture present. The shifting and deterioration of pipes can cause leaking that can be harder to detect. With older homes, pipes naturally show deterioration and rust after years of use. Crevices and cracks can form to release water ranging from a drop or two to a steady stream. Leaks of this nature should be recognized and repaired in a timely manner. Also, a home's foundation or frame can naturally shift, which can cause plumbing joints to separate and loosen resulting in water leaks. HVAC units can also be the cause of excess water in the home. Condensation from the units collects in drainage pans. These require manual draining and can result in an overflow if left unattended for an extended period of time. Especially in summer, AC units tend to produce larger amounts of condensation. Water leaks can also occur near the hot water heater. The plumbing going in and out of the tank should be inspected. Sediment build-up in tanks, as well as rust and deterioration can cause overflow. If you suspect a water leak in the home, it is always a good idea to consult a licensed, professional plumber to not only diagnose, but correctly fix any possible leak in the home. This will save the homeowner time and money. Plumbing and Home Renovations Refinishing a basement, remodeling a kitchen, and upgrading a bathroom are common home improvements, which add beauty and value to our homes. However, they all have one thing in common...plumbing! Water resources can be found in almost any of these jobs, whether it be adding a wet bar in the basement or a new sink and dishwasher in the kitchen. Whether you are the classic DIYer or if you are depending on your local contractor, a licensed plumber should play a large role in these renovations. First, it is helpful for the plumber to make a comprehensive overview to avoid any major problems. Before the demolition and building begin, the plumber knows the plumbing systems in your home and can make expert recommendations in advance. For example, one common mistake is made when a remodeling project puts too much strain on the hot water heater or compromises the water pressure in the home. Upgrades involving the plumbing system should not compromise the existing plumbing. A licensed plumber doesn't just hook the new plumbing fixtures up, but understands the home's entire plumbing system. An experienced plumber can also identify, for example, whether a sump pump is needed in the basement to aid in drainage. This helps to avoid not only unnecessary expense, but also back-ups. Proper hook up to the sewage system and ventilation access must also be considered. With the addition of large capacity appliances, water lines may need to be redirected or larger water lines may need to be installed. We all know how even the simplest projects can become complicated and time-consuming. And even the professionals understand that there is more to plumbing than just the basics. It is also important to consider the city or county's codes. When building projects require permits, inspectors tend to pay very close attention to both plumbing and electrical work. A professional, licensed plumber can also help with these details.
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