Outdoor Plumbing Advice for Homeowners

Posted on March 17, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

With spring nearly upon us, many homeowners are eager to fix up their patios and lawns after a long winter season. Mulching, gardening, and purchasing new patio décor is generally at the top of the priority list this time of year, however, there is more to consider in terms of outdoor maintenance. A major component to outdoor maintenance is plumbing. In fact, there are several areas that can influence the plumbing quality in and around your home.

Continue reading to learn how to manage your outdoor plumbing and prepare it for the spring and summer.

Outdoor Plumbing Tips

When it comes to preparing your outdoor living spaces for the spring, the first step is an inspection. Take some time to walk around your home and check for issues regarding your outdoor plumbing. Once you complete this inspection, you have a better idea of what actions need to be taken next. Here’s where to start:

• Check all outdoor drains, gutters, window wells, and downspouts for blockages and damage. • Check all hose bibs and faucets to ensure water flow is normal. • Check all plumbing vent pipes (including the outside dryer vent) for blockages. • Check the septic tank filter field for damage or clogs.

Blockages in these areas commonly include leaves, pine cones, twigs, trash, birds’ nests, and other miscellaneous debris. It is important to inspect for these obstructions as often as possible in order to prevent costly structural damage repairs. Once you finish your initial inspection, it is recommended to carry out the following tasks:
• Remove all blockages from drains, gutters, vents, downspouts and window wells. • Repair any damages to the above areas. • Apply a quality root-killing drain cleaner to your drain line. • Have your septic tank pumped if necessary. • Hire a licensed plumber to provide comprehensive inspection services.

It will probably require professional service to repair any damages to gutters, downspouts, vents, and drains, as well as, make any replacements. It is not safe to attempt these tasks without certified training, ample experience, and proper equipment. When it comes to the septic tank, it is important to have it pumped every 3 to 5 years. This will reduce the need for expensive filter field replacement.

In order to ensure your outdoor plumbing is leak-free and in good condition, you need to hire a licensed plumbing company for professional inspection and diagnostic services. They retain the proper tools, equipment, and training to accurately identify areas of concern, and recommend effective and affordable solutions for plumbing problems. Catching a problem early on is cheaper than waiting for it to become a big, costly repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call state-licensed master plumber Mark Weilhammer at 317-784-1870 when you need professional plumbing service in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Here at Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc., we are passionate about providing exceptional plumbing services at economy-based prices. We offer a wide range of plumbing repair services, for both residential and commercial properties. For prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair, call 317-784-1870 today!

How to Avoid Pet Hair in Your Plumbing Pipes

Posted on January 6, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

We love our pets! Dogs and cats can be just like real members of the family for many people in many different cultures. But as we pet owners know so well, one of the most common drawbacks to owning a pet is managing the spread of pet hair; all around our homes, in our cars, and even on our clothes! Although this issue is wildly minuscule compared to the infinite benefits of owning a dog or cat, it will still have us purchasing extra lint brushes, washing one or two more loads of laundry, or running the vacuum on a twice-a-day basis.

Clothing and chores aside, one real problem that people may not even know they have is pet hair in their plumbing! This is simply a place we don’t think about pet hair getting into, but it is well-known for causing plumbing clogs and set-backs in homes with pets. For this reason, it is important to do what’s necessary to keep pet hair out of your plumbing pipes and drains.

There are a few easy methods that have been proven to do the trick when it comes to keeping pet hair out of the drains, and out of your home’s plumbing system. Fortunately for all of us, these methods are not just easy, they are inexpensive too! And the best part is, you can get started today! Continue reading to learn how to avoid dog and cat hair in your plumbing, and what to do if you suspect your pipes are clogged.

Open Drains and Exposed Pipes

If you have exposed drains or pipes in your home, be sure to block access to them to prevent pet hair in your plumbing, as well as, damage to your pipes. Some dogs and cats see exposed plumbing pipes or drains as toys, and they can potentially cause them structural damage. But most often, the open or exposed drain pipe can be vulnerable to pet hair exposure. Use furniture and other set-ups to block pets from accessing these exposed areas in your home.

Drain Strainers

If you do not already use drain strainers, you should strongly consider buying some for your sinks, tubs, and showers. And this is especially true for homes with dogs. If you are a DIY pet groomer, and bathe your precious pup in the sink or tub at home, you will greatly benefit from drain strainers. These little strainers keep human and pet hair out of plumbing pipes, which in turn reduces the chances of clogs and costly repairs. They also block other foreign objects that shouldn’t go down the drain, like dental floss, razors,
jewelry, and more.

Toilets

Many people who groom their pets may be tempted to flush the excess hair down the toilet as a quick and easy means of disposal. But this is not good for the home’s plumbing. In fact, flushing hair down the toilet can cause plumbing issues overnight. Yes, the toilet is so close when you are cleaning out the pet brush or emptying the handheld vacuum cleaner; but it is an easy fix that can come with some costly consequences in terms of plumbing repair. Just stick to throwing pet hair away in the trash can; after all, it is biodegradable and eco-friendly!

If you suspect your plumbing system is experiencing issues, call a licensed plumber for professional service you can trust. It is highly beneficial to catch a small problem early on before it can turn into a large costly one. A professional plumber can provide this service, as well as, preventative maintenance tips to avoid future plumbing problems.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a professional master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about your plumbing problems and concerns. We offer residential and commercial plumbing repair services, including water heaters, water softeners, boilers, sump pumps, septic systems, and more, all at the fairest price in town! Call 317-784-1870 for affordable plumbing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

Tips for Winter Plumbing Maintenance

Posted on December 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Wintertime in Indiana can either be really mild, really harsh, or somewhere right in between. Basically, we never really know what to expect come winter season when you live in Indiana; but one thing is for sure, it’s going to be cold! Cold temperatures and precipitation can negatively affect your home’s plumbing system, so it is important to take some necessary precautions and stay informed on proper winter plumbing maintenance. Continue reading to review some winter plumbing tips, and be better prepared for whatever weather we will soon face.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Water leaks

Water leaks can create a long list of expensive and time-consuming problems. Be sure all pluming leaks are properly repaired and sealed before temperatures drop too low. When temperatures are at freezing, a plumbing leak can quickly turn into a huge, costly issue. So be sure to regularly inspect your exposed plumbing pipes (i.e. under sinks, outside, attic, crawl space, indoor appliances, etc.) throughout the winter time to avoid water leaks and frozen pipes. When you catch a leak early on, you can save yourself a substantial amount of time, money, and inconvenience.

Pipe Insulation

If you haven’t already, it is a good idea to insulate your plumbing pipes to prevent freezing, water leaks, and more. Simply wrap all exposed plumbing pipes with plumbing insulation foam. This is not only inexpensive, it is easy to install and easily removable. They also enhance energy-efficiency and prevent air leakages. Be sure your pipes insulation is well-kept during the winter time, and replace as needed to maintain proper insulation.

Swamp Cooler

If you have a swamp cooler, also called evaporative cooler, it needs to be drained before the harshest part of winter arrives. You must turn off all power and water to the unit before draining it. The water supply line should be drained as well. It is also a good idea to change the pads and filters within the cooler at this time as well.

Pump House

If your water supply comes from a well, it is important to take certain precaution to prevent freezing well water issues. Do this by making sure your pump house is well-insulated and checking that your heating is working properly. Without sufficient heat, your pump house can freeze up even if it’s insulated.

Hose Bibs

Everyone hates to forget to unscrew their garden hoses before the temperatures hit below freezing. Freezing water trapped inside a hose bib can result in hose and faucet damages. Prevent these frustrating circumstances by getting a head start before the snow, and removing all hoses from outdoor faucets before temperatures drop too low. Then be sure to drain all your hoses entirely and store them in a dry, warm place to prevent them from becoming brittle.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for winter plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to help you prepare your home’s plumbing for plummeting temperature and harsh winter weather! We offer a wide range of plumbing service and repair at the most competitive prices in town. Whether commercial or residential, Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. has everything it takes to provide professional plumber service to any size property. Call 317-784-1870 for information about our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

What is a Plumbing Emergency?

Posted on June 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

A home encompasses a long list of appliances and systems that can defect at any moment. One of the most serious of household emergencies involves the plumbing. Plumbing emergencies can be the messiest and the most costly. Costs can arise from not only plumbing repair and replacement, but also from structural damage renovations and emergency service fees. One way to reduce these costs is to implement proper plumbing maintenance and routine inspections in order to catch an issue early on before it gets out of control. Another way to reduce these costs is to know which plumbing issues are emergencies and which are not.

Emergency services do cost more, but can save thousands in the end. Even if the emergency happens in the middle of the night or on a weekend, like most so-inconveniently do, it is vital to get an emergency plumber to your home immediately. If something is not a crisis, you can save on these particular costs by waiting to call a plumber during regular hours or business days.

Emergency Plumbing

It is important to know the difference between a plumbing issue that can wait until morning or the next business day, and a plumbing emergency that requires immediate service. Service costs are not cheap, and emergency ones are even more, so knowing this difference can save homeowners’ hundreds of dollars. For example, things like minor water leaks can be managed on your own by simply turning off the main water valve at night and placing a bucket underneath it during the day until you can get service. Continue for more examples of plumbing emergencies and non-emergencies.

EMERGENCIES:

• Gas Leaks or Lingering Gas Smells
• Flooding (i.e. carpets, floors, basement, lawn, etc.)
• Wet or “Sweaty” Walls
• Large Amounts of Standing Water in Lawn
• Burst Pipes
• Frozen Pipes
• Sump Pump Problems and Defects
• Major Water Leaks that Can’t Be Controlled with Main Water Shutoff Valve
• Etc.

NON-EMERGENCIES:

• Clogged Toilet or Drain
• Running Toilet
• No Hot Water
• Small Water Leaks (i.e. faucet, showerhead, sink, etc.)
• Moderate Leaks that Can Be Stopped with Main Water Shutoff Valve (i.e. water heater, water softener, cabinet pipes, etc.)
• Broken Plumbing Fixture
• Etc.

When determining whether or not a plumbing issue is an emergency, ask yourself these questions:

Can it Wait?

Think about the seriousness of the issue and if leaving it alone until morning or the next business day will cause more damage. If you can mitigate the issue, like catching dripping water in a bucket, you probably don’t need emergency service. On the other hand, if it is something that needs to be functioning at all times, like if you only have one toilet, it could be an emergency.

Will Turning Off the Main Water Valve Help?

As mentioned, some plumbing leaks can be managed on your own through the night without calling for emergency service. A leak can be managed through the night by turning off the specific and main water valves; and then calling for plumbing service the next day. On the other hand, larger water leaks, like burst pipes, need emergency repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provides a wide range of plumbing repair services for residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need minor or major plumbing work, our highly trained and qualified plumbing contractors retain the proper resources and expertise to implement accurate plumbing repairs in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about our Indianapolis master plumber services, prices, and availability today.

Do You Need Bathtub Repair or Bathtub Replacement?

Posted on May 19, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

A shower curtain can only do so much to hide an old, outdated, stained, or rusted bathtub. Eventually at some point in time, it will be necessary, and lucrative, to address your bathtub woes. Determining whether or not a bathtub needs repaired or replaced can be tricky, which is why it is helpful to review some basic factors regarding bathtub plumbing to better understand your home’s needs.

Although bathtub replacement seems like a scary possibility in terms of cost and installation, it is much more affordable and efficient than many think. So if it turns out that your home needs an entire bathtub replacement, do not fear the costs and labor associated with the process. Continue reading to learn how to tell which service your bathroom requires, what to expect, and who to call for professional plumbing you can trust.

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Bathtub Repair

Not all tubs will need a replacement. Sometimes some simple repairs is all it takes to instantly solve, update, or upgrade your bathroom focal point. If a bathtub doesn’t pose any internal or external plumbing issues, then homeowners can opt to have their tubs refinished. Tub refinishing is perfect for bathtubs that are in good condition physically, but may contain stains, discoloration, texture defects, and unsightly marks. This process costs substantially less than tub replacement, and makes bathtubs look brand new. For further protection and longevity, homeowners can opt for bathtub liner in addition to refinishing. Although a bit pricier than refinishing alone, it is a fantastic way to further protect your investment.

Bathtub Replacement

Sometimes, a bathtub cannot be repaired, or the repair costs would exceed the cost of replacement. In these cases, replacement is necessary. Even for tubs that are not defective, replacement might be necessary for bathroom remodels, updates, and upgrades. Keep in mind that the after effects of a water leak are much more costly and tedious to repair than the cost to replace a defective, cracked, or deteriorating tub.

Be sure to hire a licensed master plumber for bathtub repairs and bathroom plumbing services. They retain the proper tools, training, and resources to provide a professional and accurate job within a time-frame that’s convenient for you.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for bathroom plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry. We offer a wide range of plumbing repair and service for residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 for more information about our affordable Indianapolis plumbing repair and bathroom plumbing services.

A Guide to Eco-Friendly Plumbing

Posted on February 9, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

There’s a new “Eco-Friendly” trend happening in today’s society that we can all be very proud of. There are thousands of ways to promote and support a healthy Eco-system, such as recycling, using chemical-free cleaners, reducing energy consumption, and more. Now, there is new technology and new ideas for “going green” with your home plumbing! So if you are motivated toward living a greener lifestyle, take some time and think about making some Eco-friendly changes to your home plumbing. Continue reading for an introduction to green plumbing practices and perhaps start making changes today!

Pipes

A great way to have a more Eco-friendly piping system is to insulate them. Properly insulated plumbing pipes promote energy preservation and efficiency. They decrease the amount of heat lost inside the pipe-works as it moves from one point to another. Insulated pipes also support better heat-preservation in hot water heaters, thus reducing monthly utility bills and energy consumption.

Water Heaters

Sometimes, an old or defective water heater can reduce your home’s energy efficiency and greatly increase utility costs. Simply by replacing your hot water heater with a more efficient one, you can save money and better support your environment at the same time!

Install New Showerhead Filters

You can safely reduce chlorine levels in your home’s showers and baths by installing chlorine filters in your shower-heads. Chemical-free water is safer for nails, hair, skin, allergies, consumption, and more. Although chlorine is used to disinfect water supplies, it can produce harmful byproducts and sediments that are bad for our homes and our bodies.

Install a Water Softener

A reverse osmosis filtration system is a great method to eliminating harmful byproducts and sediments in a home’s water supply. Laundry, drinking water, hair, nails, skin, dishes, plumbing piping, and more are all improved and protected with an energy-efficient water softener.

Install Low-Flow Fixtures

By choosing to replace your old shower-heads, faucets, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures with low-flow models can greatly reduce your water consumption. This also reduces monthly water bills!

On-Demand Circulation Pump

You can choose to install an on-demand hot water circulation pump in place of a hot water heater. This allows hot water to be ready on-demand, rather than waiting for it to heat up as it runs. This reduces water consumption and utility bills as well. And with insulated pipes, you won’t lose heat inside as the hot water sits.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for master plumber services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry, and provides services for residential and commercial properties. We repair, install, replace, service, and maintenance all make and model plumbing appliances and fixtures at the most competitive prices in town. We offer free estimates, free advice, and free haul-away services too! Call 317-784-1870 for state-licensed plumbing repair in Indianapolis, IN today.

The Difference Between a Standard Plumber and a Master Plumber

Posted on December 9, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-187

Being a standard plumber is not such a hard job. Anyone can take the required courses, learn the trade, and start on a journey to becoming a seasoned plumbing technician. But being a master plumber is a whole other story. Basically, a regular plumber is a regular job, whereas, a master plumber is a huge job. A master plumber is a much more advanced and complex vocation than just regular plumbing. It requires a separate and comprehensive agenda to become qualified and licensed master plumber.

Continue reading to learn the actual difference between a regular plumbing contractor and a licensed master plumber.

Master Plumbers

A master plumber deals with a large load of responsibility. They are state licensed master plumbers that are certified to provide installations, re-piping, maintenance, repair, and more for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Master plumbing contractors are required to pass mandatory courses, receive proper licensing, and retain extensive plumbing knowledge for all plumbing-related work. This is an intense load of skill and knowledge that one must possess in order to be a master plumber. It is an actual trade that requires skill, expertise, and understanding. But it also requires state licensing so they can provide their services legally.

When a factory or commercial building is being constructed, it is not the general contractors or the architects that plan and execute the plumbing, it is the master plumber. This is just one example of the enormous responsibility and skill and master plumber deals with every day in their career. But even though a master plumber is certified and trained to provide large plumbing projects and work, they are also your solution for residential plumbing service and repair. They provide water leak inspections, minor plumbing and pipe repair, copper re-piping, sump pump repair, water heater and water softener repair, and everything in-between.

It requires an abundant amount of dedication and patience to become a master plumber. A person has to have a real passion for plumbing work to succeed in becoming a certified and licensed master contractor. In order to actually become a master plumber, a person must pay their dues in the industry. They have to have ample experience in plumbing work before they can even qualify for master plumber courses and certification. They must pass courses, classes, and exams that cover everything from plumbing codes to repair. Many people are not up to this level of commitment and work, so they opt for a general contractors licensed; this is why master plumbers are a bit more expensive.

Master plumbers are adept in the following areas and much more:

• Plumbing Repair
• Plumbing Service and Maintenance
• Re-Piping
• Fitting and Laying Pipes
• Indoor Plumbing
• Outdoor Plumbing
• Residential Plumbing
• Commercial Plumbing
• Industrial Plumbing
• Plumbing System Design
• Asbestos Removal
• Roof Replacement
• Irrigation Planning
• Gas Fitting
• Bathroom and Kitchen Renovations
• Space Conversion Plumbing
• Sanitary Plumbing Services
• Residential Sprinklers
• Backflow Service and Prevention
• Sewer and Drainage Problems
• “Green” Plumbing
• Energy Efficient Hot Water Heating
• Water Heaters
• Boilers
• Sump Pumps
• And Much More

Contact your local Indianapolis master plumber anytime for questions and concerns regarding your home or commercial plumbing system. Whether you need a simple leaky faucet fix, or comprehensive re-piping services, a master plumber is your best and most reliable option.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Mark Weilhammer, owner and master plumber at Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc., at 317-784-1870 for superior plumbing repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. He is a state licensed master plumbing contractor with more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing industry! His family owned and operated plumbing company has been serving the Hoosier communities for more than 112 years! You can rest assure you are receiving the most proficient and affordable plumbing service when you call Weilhammer Plumbing. Just dial 317-784-1870 and speak directly with an Indianapolis master plumber about your plumbing repair needs, today.

Learn How to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies!

Posted on November 13, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Emergency Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Basement floods, water leaks, burst pipes, oh my! These are just a few plumbing emergencies that can happen to homeowner and property managers at any moment, unexpectedly. No one wants to come home from a relaxing vacation only to discover that their basement is now a swimming pool; and property owners certainly want to avoid dealing with busted plumbing pipes while guests are shopping inside their facility! There are some plumbing emergencies that are just unforeseeable, but there are others that can be prevented with a little knowledge
and preventative maintenance.

Continue reading to learn how to prevent plumbing emergencies to the best of your ability!

Do Not Wait to Call a Plumber for Emergencies

One of the biggest mistakes property owners make is neglecting to call a plumber for maintenance and small repairs, before a plumbing emergency occurs. Do not wait until you have a plumbing emergency on your hands; instead, have a licensed plumbing contractor provide routine maintenance and inspections, and implement smaller repairs as needed. This way, you can prevent a large, costly plumbing disaster down the line. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. You can potentially save thousands of dollars in renovations, repairs, and re-piping with some simple plumbing preventative maintenance.

Preventative maintenance can stop clogged pipes and drains, water leaks, overflows, water heater issues, and more. While these services are inexpensive and fairly simple to execute, larger plumbing repairs are costly and time-consuming. And also remember that larger plumbing repairs and renovations usually have to extend to the weekend or after business hours, making the job even more expensive. Paying for routine maintenance and small repairs not only saves you money, but it protects your plumbing system from requiring major or frequent repairs overtime.

Here are some helpful Do-It-Yourself tips for plumbing preventative maintenance:

Complete a Full-Property Inspection for Water Leaks, Large and Small. Check under sinks, pipes, water heater, water softener, faucets, showers, baths, drains, and other areas that transport water.

Keep an Eye on the Septic Tank. Look for overflows, mechanical malfunctions, and water leaks after heavy rain or storms. Install a battery-powered backup sump pump for emergencies.

Test Your Water Pressure. Check your shower heads, faucets, and other water spouts for reduced water pressure. This is a sign of possible sediment buildup or a faulty water line, which can clog pipes, cause complications with water heaters, and more. Flush and clear water heater sediment multiple times a year for optimal protection and performance.

Adjust Water Heater Temperatures. Move the temperature setting on your hot water heater between 115 and 120 degrees. This prevents scalding accidents and can save money on monthly energy costs.

Locate Your Water Shut-Off Valve. Knowing where your water shut off valve is important for major water leak emergencies or burst pipes. You can stop an overflow in its tracks by simply shutting off the main water supply to your home or property. These are usually located in the basement or near the outdoor hose spout.

Contact a Professional and Licensed Indianapolis Master Plumber. They will provide reputable assistance with plumbing preventative maintenance and emergency plumbing repairs. They retain the proper tools, equipment, training, and knowledge to combat a plumbing emergency and provide solutions for burst pipes, malfunctioning septic tanks, broken water heaters, water leaks, and much more.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call 317-784-1870 to speak with a state-licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana regarding plumbing repair or maintenance in Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a seasoned plumbing contractor that can offer the most honest and accurate plumbing advice and assistance. Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. provides several plumbing services and repairs for residential and commercial properties. We also offer free estimates, DIY advice, free plumbing information, parts and appliances for sale, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 for the most accurate and professional plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Information About Plumbing Slab Leaks

Posted on November 5, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Beneath most homes is solid concrete foundation. Within these foundations are the property’s interior plumbing systems and piping. Slab leaks occur when these pipes leak. There are several signs, symptoms, and causes of plumbing slab leaks; and most often, it requires a licensed master plumber or professional plumbing contractor, to properly diagnose and repair the problem. Continue reading to learn more about slab leaks, and who to call for honest and affordable plumbing repairs and diagnostics
in your local neighborhood.

Underground Piping Systems

Many modern homes are built with underground plumbing. Building contractors prefer to install interior plumbing works for several reasons, most having to do with money and labor. For one, it costs much less to simply install underground plumbing, and then have the pipes connect to the main line that leads to all the home’s fixtures and appliances. Not only does this save money, it saves time and labor too. No need for drilling or strapping pipes to the wall, and very little material is needed. Also, protection doesn’t need to be installed to cover the pipes because they are naturally insulated from harsh climates and weather.

When pipes and plumbing are built above ground, they have to have insulation around them to prevent frozen or cracked pipes in the winter, and losing cold water capacity in the summer. These reasons and more are why construction contractors and builders choose to install plumbing pipes underground; but because of this, pipes are out of sight, so not much is known about slab leaks and other plumbing mishaps that can occur beneath a home’s flooring.

Signs and Symptoms of Slab Leaks

Slab leaks are a major threat to a property. Because the signs are extremely subtle, discovering a slab leak can be difficult; and often times, as a result, slab leaks go unnoticed and cause extensive and expensive damages. As for homeowners, it is important to know what the common slab leak signs and symptoms are, in order to catch a water leak problem before it becomes a costly and tedious repair. Here are the most common signs of a slab leak:

• Increased Utility Bills, Particularly Water
• Noisy Plumbing Fixtures, Like the Sound of Running Water
• Cold Spot on the Floor
• Hot Spot on the Floor
• Soppy Wet Areas or Puddles in the Yard
• Wet Areas Inside the Home (i.e. wet walls, flooring, ceiling, etc.)
• The Sound of Running Water Coming from the Floor

Slab leaks are troublesome plumbing problems that require the astute knowledge and capacity of an Indianapolis slab leak repair contractor or licensed master plumber. Plumbing slab leaks can occur as a result of countless circumstances and sources, but the most common causes for slab leaks include the following and more:

• Corroded or Deteriorated Copper Piping
• Inadequate Insulation Fittings and Installation
• Friction Beneath the Ground
• Kinked, Cut, or Clogged Plumbing Line

When it comes to slab leak repair, there are many options available for all incomes and budgets. If pipes are corroded, however, all piping would need to be removed and replaced. This can be costly, but a reputable plumbing company may be able to work with your budget. For all other underground slab leaks, comprehensive diagnostics and pipe repair are the most effective solutions.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for details about slab leak repair and underground copper re-piping services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is a state licensed plumbing contractor with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry. We strongly believe in integrity, honesty, and quality service, and have remained dedicated to these values since the start of our family owned and operated plumbing company in 1901. We offer a wide range of services for both residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing repair and re-piping services in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties today.

A Guide to the Homeowners DIY Plumbing Kit

Posted on October 10, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to plumbing repairs and needs, not all require the assistance of a master plumber. In these cases, a handy homeowner can implement some DIY strategies to combat their plumbing problems on their own. So what does every homeowner need to complete their “do-it-yourself” plumbing kit? The answer is below!

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

DIY At-Home Plumbing Kit

There are specific tools, gadgets, and equipment needed to tackle all the different plumbing emergencies and repairs a homeowner might do themselves. A handy homeowner can accomplish a wide array of plumbing endeavors around the house if properly equipped. Depending on your experience and “level of handiness” choose plumbing tasks that are comfortable for you. Call a licensed Indianapolis master plumber for plumbing repairs that require a more professional touch. Think about it; with the right materials, you can save hundreds of dollars fixing that dripping faucet, unclogging a toilet, cleaning calcified fixtures, snaking drains, and much more all on your own!

Whether it’s a leaky faucet, or a clogged toilet, these tools will have you prepared for that next unexpected plumbing repair. Here is a list of the items you should purchase and have gathered in a kit for all your DIY plumbing projects and undertakings.

• Plunger
• Pipe Wrench
• Drain Snake
• Drain Cleaner Solution
• Rubber Gloves
• Calcium-Lime-Rust Remover (CRL)

A plunger is the most basic and necessary tool for any home. It is used to dislodge buildup and fix clogged toilets. A pipe wrench is equally necessary for anyone who wishes to stop a dripping faucet, or a leaky pipe under the sink. These wrenches are adjustable and easy to use; and can be fitted to most pipes and fixtures. Snaking a drain can be done just by using an old wire hanger, but several products are available on the market that provide a snake and a drain cleaning solution. These are great products to have on-hand in the case of a clogged or backed-up drain. Rubber gloves protect the hands from harsh cleaning and drain clearing solutions, including CRL. CRL is a popular calcium, lime, and rust remover that can remove white scum and buildup from plumbing fixtures.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for superior DIY plumbing information and advice in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing industry. He can provide plumbing repair, replacements, diagnostics, installations, equipment sales, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 and learn more about the various plumbing repair services we offer in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.