5 Reasons For Damaged House Plumbing

Key Takeaways:

1. Maintaining a functioning plumbing system in the home is essential for comfort and safety.
2. Common reasons for damaged plumbing include clogs and blockages, old pipes, DIY blunders, improper installation, and hard water damage.
3. It’s essential to ensure that only human waste is flushed down the toilet and nothing else to avoid these issues.
4. Install a high-efficiency water softener.
5. Shut off main water valves before making repairs.
6. Don’t put grease or food scraps down the drain.
7. Use approved repair materials, regularly inspect fixtures, and close unnecessary valves or drains.
8. Have professional plumbers routinely check the plumbing system.

Has it ever occurred to you how crucial your plumbing system is? Sure! You might not have given it much thought, and it’s not interesting to consider while you shower.

A functioning plumbing system is essential for the home’s comfort and safety. From providing clean water to flushing away waste, your house plumbing plays a vital role in the daily lives of you and your family. But, as with anything, things can go wrong.

From leaky faucets, and clogged drains, to sky-high water bills, damaged plumbing can be tiresome. Plumbing issues are a hassle, and finding the root cause of the problem is more stressful. But don’t worry. Leak Pros of Georgia shares the top five reasons your house plumbing is in shambles. From the unsuspecting culprits, such as flushing baby wipes, to the not-so-obvious suspects, like tree roots infiltrating your pipes. We’ve covered you with tips and tricks to prevent these plumbing nightmares. We’ve also focused on common mistakes which result in damaged plumbing.

Common Reasons for Damaged Plumbing

Reason#1: Clogs and Blockages

It occurs when flushing things like cotton balls, dental floss, or “flushable” wipes down the toilet. These materials don’t break down in the water and can cause clogs and blockages in your pipes.

Solution

Don’t flush anything other than human waste. Throw away synthetic waste like cotton, floss and toilet wipes in a trash bin instead of washing it down the toilet. Use strong drain cleaners as an alternative, or call an experienced plumber to eliminate the clogs and blockages.

Reason#2: Old Pipes

Plumbing systems usually last a long time, but things can turn wrong with old, brittle pipes. If your house was built decades ago, then chances are that you have aged plumbing lines that need replacing sooner or later.

Due to their corroded nature, old pipes result in frequent pipe breakage, water leaks, and other problems.

Solution

Make sure to get copper piping for the hot water while using PVC for the cold-water supply.

Reason #3: DIY Blunders

Do you like working with your hands? Although plumbing may seem simple, it can be tricky. DIY is not always the best way to fix plumbing issues, as it often results in additional problems. While trying to fix a problem, you might worsen it and lead to more damaged plumbing. From trying to fix a broken pipe to unclogging the drain, accidents can happen anytime.

Solution

If you think a DIY solution may work and have some field experience, try it. However, if you are unsure or don’t feel confident enough, hire a qualified plumber to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Reason #4: Improper Installation

Plumbing systems must be installed correctly; otherwise, they won’t work properly. Not only can improper installation result in severe water damage, but it also increases your monthly utility costs due to leakage and other problems associated with incorrect installation.

Solution

For any plumbing installation, ensure you hire a qualified plumber with the experience and expertise to do the job right. Ask for references, and confirm that they are certified.

Reason #5: Hard Water Damage

Hard water contains high mineral concentration levels like calcium, magnesium, and other trace elements that can build up in pipes over time. These deposits reduce water flow, increase clogs, and cause leaks or pipe bursts.

Solution

Install a high-efficiency water softener to remove hard water minerals before they reach the plumbing system. Additionally, use chemical cleaners to help prevent mineral buildup in the pipes. It will reduce clogging and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Damaged Plumbing

Making mistakes with plumbing can be costly, not just financially but also in terms of time spent dealing with unnecessary repairs and damage control. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid when it comes to household plumbing.

1. Not Shutting the Main Water Valve Before Making Repairs

Make sure you shut off the main valve before making any repairs or changes to your plumbing. Otherwise, you could see a flooded home, broken pipes, and a high-water utility bill.

2. Not Being Careful with Drains

If you’re not careful with your drains, they can get clogged and cause major plumbing issues. Be sure to keep an eye on what you put down your sink drains — especially things like cooking grease and food scraps, which can create nasty blockages.

3. Using Unapproved Materials for Repairs

Using the wrong materials to repair pipes or fixtures can be disastrous. Make sure to use approved materials for any repairs so that you don’t end up with a more significant issue down the line.

4. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure your plumbing works properly and is in good condition, from checking for leaks to unclogging drains. Not taking the time for routine maintenance can lead to plumbing damage over time.

5. Aging Fixtures

Over time, fixtures age and become less effective at doing their job — from showerheads to water heaters and beyond. It’s essential to replace aging fixtures when necessary so that you don’t experience significant damage down the line due to a lack of proper performance.

Related: 8 Smart Tips To Avoid Plumbing Disasters

Conclusion

There are many reasons for plumbing damage in your home. Take the necessary steps to avoid these issues, such as regularly inspecting your fixtures and closing any unnecessary valves or drains. Also, have a professional plumber come in routinely to check on the condition of your plumbing system. Taking proactive approaches will help ensure you don’t experience significant plumbing disasters!

Get Qualified Plumbers for Home Plumbing Issues in Atlanta, GA

If you live in Atlanta, GA, and are looking for help with your home plumbing issues, Leak Pros of Georgia can help. We provide comprehensive plumbing services, from repairs to installation work. Our experienced professionals can identify any plumbing problem’s source and resolve it quickly and efficiently. Contact us today and receive a free estimate for your plumbing needs.

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