Home renovation shows make it seem fairly simple to upgrade your home. You simply hire the contractors, consult with an interior designer, set the budget, and wait for the magic to happen. While it would be nice if it were that smooth all the time, the truth is, there are often bumps in the road during a renovation. Contractors run into problems on occasion that stalls progress until the matter is addressed. Of all the things that could be discovered during a home renovation, plumbing issues are often the most common. As the plumbing is within the walls and ceilings of the property, homeowners often take an out of sight, out of mind approach. It isn’t until demolition and installations begin that these issues are discovered.
While there isn’t much you can do other than have the issue repaired, being knowledgeable of what to expect during your renovation is recommended. Below, is a brief look at some of the most common plumbing issues.
Inefficient Flow or Temperature
When renovating parts of the home like the kitchen or bathroom where plumbing is present, contractors often turn the water off and on to test the plumbing system and new devices being installed. During these tests, if the flow or temperature of the water is off the issue has to be addressed.
Low-flowing water could mean you have an issue with your hot water heater pressure. This, coupled with issues keeping hot water steamy are telltale signs that you need a hot water heater replacement. There are plenty of efficient and cost-effective options for you to consider.
Hidden Leaks
Leaky pipes aren’t always easy to spot. However, when walls are exposed and torn down in a renovation, they become visible. It is during this time that contractors discover hidden leaks. Dripping water, damp spots, and the presence of mold are all signs that there is a leak.
Fortunately, leaks can easily be fixed by a plumbing professional. Depending on the cause and severity of the leak, they can simply replace outdated plumbing parts, tighten loose pipes, or seal the holes and cracks.
Slow Drains
Efficient plumbing systems are designed to bring clean water into the home and transport waste out. Without maintenance, however, this process becomes complicated. A buildup of metal, rust, minerals, and other debris in the pipes and poorly managed systems prevents waste from exiting the house properly. If your water isn’t draining properly, it could mean that your pipes are clogged or your septic tank is backed up.
Though one issue is worse than the other, a plumbing professional can diagnose the problem quickly. Using tools such as a plumbing snake, they can dig deep into the pipes to try and loosen up anything clogging it. If a clog isn’t the issue, they can immediately schedule to have your tank flushed.
Outdated Plumbing
If you reside in an older home it is very possible that your plumbing system is outdated. One sign of this include the types of materials and metals the system is comprised of. If it is discovered that your pipes have lead in them, for example, you’d need to have them replaced as lead is very dangerous – especially for small children. Other signs include multiple leaks or cracks, strange sounds, discolored, or smelly water.
If it is determined during your renovation that your plumbing system is outdated, you’ll want to have this serviced above all else. Though there may be other options, ignoring the problem or patching it up could lead to serious damage in the future including leaks, water damage, mold exposure, or structural damage. Replacing your plumbing can be expensive, but in the end, is worth it. There are lots of new efficient and affordable options to consider upgrading to.
Undertaking a home renovation project is huge. The idea is to create a home that looks like it came right out of a magazine. Yet, getting from point a to point b isn’t always as easy as it’s made to appear. The truth is, there can be bumps in the road along the way. That’s why it’s always best to work with plumbing professionals throughout the course of your renovation to ensure your home is not only aesthetically appealing but safe and healthy.
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