This time of year, Indiana is known to get unanticipated
snow fall. In fact, Hoosiers can be hit with a snowstorm all the way to May! So,
waking up this morning to steady snow should be no surprise, whether you read
the weather report for the week or not. When it comes to managing your property
during times of snow, it is common to be concerned about the systems that are
most affected by colder climate and precipitation. Your home’s plumbing is one
such system, and a vital one to upkeep, nonetheless.
If you are wondering what you can do to keep your home’s
plumbing protecting during times of heavy snow, it helps to understand how snow
can affect it in the first place. Continue reading to do just that!
Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870
Gutters and Drains
Your gutters, downspouts, and drains are all subject to damage
during heavy snow. They can break from too much weight, crack from freeze-thaw
cycles, or clog from organic debris and ice. It is important to keep up with snow
fall as it’s happening by clearing these areas of dirt, trash, solid matter,
and ice. This will reduce clogs, as well as, prevent water damage to roofing,
siding, and the foundation.
Foundation
Once the snow begins to melt, your home’s foundation can be affected
by the increase in standing water. The excessive amounts of water will seep
into the soil around the home’s foundation. If your foundation is not in the
best condition, water can seep inside, into the basement or lower floors of the
home. You must have your home’s foundation repaired or enhanced to prevent slab
leaks.
Sump Pump
Large snow buildup around your home may also affect the operation of your sump pump. Be sure to inspect the sump pump check valve after a heavy snowfall to ensure that it is properly fitted. If you notice that the pump is running too frequently, it could be an indication of a bad check valve. It is important to have a bad check valve replaced because it prevents pumped water from returning back into the line.
Plumbing Pipes
When a home gets too cold during snowfall, plumbing pipes
can freeze, which can result in damaging freeze-thaw cycles, and eventually, busted
pipes. Not only is this an invasive plumbing repair, it is a tedious and costly
one as well. You can prevent this from happening by keeping your house warm enough
during the winter.
Indianapolis Plumbing Services You Can Trust
Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair service at an affordable price. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about plumbing repair, replacement, installation, maintenance, and more. We offer free advice and estimates as well.
When your ankles are underwater, you can’t feel really good about your shower experience. Accordingly, wiping away a residual dark ring around the perimeter of the tub is not something anyone wants to add to their daily bathing routine. Fortunately, with a quick unclogging, your bathtub will be a place of tranquility once again. Worried about the process? Don’t be; unclogging a bathtub drain is really simple so long as you have the right supplies and knowledge. You can even appoint your preteens and teens to do the job for you!
Continue below to learn what you need and how to get started, as well as, what to do if your bathtub drain is too clogged to fix yourself.
Indianapolis Bathroom Plumbing Service 317-784-1870
What You Will Need:
✑ 4-in-1 Screw Driver ✑ Drain Auger (or wire coat hanger) ✑ Rubber Gloves ✑ Trash Bag ✑ Baking Soda ✑ Distilled White Vinegar ✑ Boiling Water
Instructions:
❶ Start by removing your bathtub stopper. If it is a plug,
then you can move onto the next step. To remove a drop stopper (the kind you
twist and push-in), use a Philips head screwdriver. You’ll find the screw
underneath the stopper head, on the shaft. For push and lock stoppers (push in
to close and push in to open), you will just need to unscrew the stopper using
your fingers. Then remove the shaft using your screw driver. Be sure to set
your stoppers off to the side somewhere safe.
❷ Put on your rubber gloves and peek into the drain. You
will most likely see a clump of hair or some slimy residue. This is normal.
Grab your drain auger and trash bag. And get ready to dive in.
❸ Insert the drain auger into the bathtub drain as far down
as it will go. Then pull it up and out all the way. This may take a few tries.
But don’t give up. It will fit down there. You can help release some of the
clog by pouring a small amount of liquid dish soap into the drain. It can help
to loosen the debris and allow the auger to reach farther.
❹ Place the removed debris into your trash bag, and
continue to repeat step 3 until you can no longer bring anything back up.
❺ Pour a homemade drain cleaner down the drain and follow its instructions. To use your own, pour 1 cup baking soda into the drain, followed by 2 cups of boiling water. Then pour another cup of baking soda into the drain followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain, allow it to sit for several minutes, and then rinse with 2 more cups of boiling water.
❻ Replace your bathtub stopper. And now you are done!
✨ If the clog persists or turns out to be too severe, contact
a licensed plumber right away. They have the tools and training to deliver safe
and effective solutions at a fair price.
The Indianapolis Plumbing Service to Trust
Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed bathroom plumbing services in Indianapolis at an affordable price. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for both residential and commercial properties. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.
With dampness and darkness, you are bound to have some form of mold growth at some point in time. When it comes to your home’s plumbing system, mold is an ongoing threat that must be controlled with routine cleaning and similar maintenance. If you have mold around your home’s plumbing fixtures or pipes, it is wise to understand the cause of the mold growth, and then combat the root of the problem with adequate methods of abatement.
The first step to understanding where your mold is coming from is to determine which kind of mold species you are dealing with. Did you know that simply looking at the color of mold can tell you this?
Continue reading to learn what the color of your mold is
telling you.
Indianapolis Plumbing Service 317-784-1870
Common Mold Colors and Potential Dangers
☣ Black or Gray – Mold that is black or gray might be Alternaria, which is one of the most common types of outdoor mold. It mostly grows near damp, dusty areas, as well as, soil and plants. It is often found in household dust, so be sure you keep up with your routine cleaning.
☣ Blue, Green, or White – Molds of these colors generally point to the Penicillium genus. Several years ago, this species of mold was used to make penicillin. At the present time, it is usually found growing on food or on walls. It can cause allergic reactions, allergies, and other respiratory problems.
☣ Green – Green mold is very vague since it can be any kind of unpleasant fungus. There are literally thousands of species of green mold, so green mold doesn’t tell you much, expect that it needs to be removed.
☣ Greenish-Black – Mold that appears greenish-black in color could be Stachbotrys genus, which is also known as “black mold.” Exposure to such mold has been linked to serious health conditions. It commonly grows on high-cellulose, low-nitrogen surfaces, such as drywall, gypsum board, paper, dust and lint that is constantly exposed to moisture.
☣ Olive Green, Gray, Brown, or Black – Molds that appear in these color formations likely belong to the Cladosporium genus. You can find this mold growing indoors and outdoors, on plant leaves, soil, walls, insulation, and damp carpeting. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they are most commonly linked to minor health complications like skin, eye, and sinus infections; but they have also been known to brain infections like fungal meningitis.
☣ Pink – Pink mold is often seen in the bathroom or kitchen, but it is not actually mold at all. It is a bacteria called Serratia marcescens. Although not a mold, it still presents hygiene and health issues, like urinary tract and respiratory infections.
☣ Yellow, Green or Black – Mold that appears yellow, green, or black could possibly be Aspergillus mold. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we breathe these molds in almost every day without getting sick. However, concentrated exposure can be hazardous, especially for those with existing lung problems or suppressed immune systems. In individuals like these, it can cause aspergillosis, which presents itself as coughing, wheezing, and sinus inflammation.
How to Clean Mold
It is strongly encouraged to wear a face mask or respirator,
as well as rubber gloves, when cleaning mold. As a quick guide, start by generously
spritzing the affected area with water to reduce the amount of airborne spores that
have the potential of moving around when you disturb them.
Then dip a bristled brush or sponge into a soapy warm water solution,
and scrub the mold off with. You can use standard dish detergent for your soapy
solution. You cannot visibly see all mold, so be sure to scrub the entire area,
as well as, all surrounding areas to make sure it is all gone.
When you are finished, repeat this process using bleach in
place of soapy solution. If you do not have bleach or do not want to use it, distilled
white vinegar works too. You can also choose to purchase a mold cleaning
solution at your local department store.
Black Mold Clean Up
When it comes to black mold, you can possibly remediate on your own, however, large-scale black mold remediation require professional service. You should hire a mold remediation contractor to determine the size and scope of your mold outbreak. Aside from black mold, most mold problems can be resolved on your own with the right products and supplies, a little elbow grease, and patience.
How to Manage Mold Growth
When it comes to your plumbing, the best way to prevent or
control mold growth is through routine cleaning and maintenance. Be sure to
have your plumbing systems inspected and serviced professionally at least once
per year. This includes all water-using appliances, such as water heaters,
water softeners, washing machines, dishwashers, sump pumps, septic systems,
toilets, baths, and more.
The Indianapolis Plumbing Service to Trust
Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed plumbing service in Indianapolis at an affordable price. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for both residential and commercial properties. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.
When a homeowner comes across a plumbing issue, even a major one, they can sometimes feel the urge to correct the problem themselves for the sake of saving a few dollars. But all professional plumbers know that this is never a good plan, because most often, they are called to fix these DIY mistakes. There are several reasons why you should not attempt to repair a plumbing problem on your own, unless it is a very minor one, like a running toilet (in which case you would just open the back, un-kink the chain inside the tank with a simple flick of the finger, and then the toilet tank should fill with water again). Minor cases of clogged drains are also acceptable and feasible DIY plumbing repairs for homeowners. But when it comes to real plumbing problems, always hire a professionally licensed plumbing contractors. And here’s why:
Education and Training
Licensed plumbers are not self-taught, especially master plumbers. It is a very serious vocation that requires extensive formal education and training, strenuous state testing, and an in-depth understanding of plumbing systems. If you do not retain these qualifications, then you should not try to repair your own plumbing problems. Your plumbing system is very complex and sophisticated, and although a plumbing problem may appear to be isolated at one fixture or area, it could be something much deeper. And only a trained plumber knows the intricacies of your plumbing system, and how to locate the underlying problem.
Tools and Equipment
To accurately diagnose and resolve plumbing issues, you don’t just need knowledge and experience, you need the right equipment too. The proper plumbing tools and equipment are necessary for accuracy, efficiency, and safety. A professional plumbing company retains the necessary tools and equipment to manage any plumbing project the first time around, regardless of size or scope. Not only do they have the right tools, they have the industry connections to get materials and parts from the best and most cost-effective suppliers on that market.
Peace of Mind
When you have a licensed and insured plumber working on your home’s plumbing issues, you have peace of mind knowing that your home is in the hands of a qualified professional. You can relieve yourself of the stress and anxiety that comes with DIY home improvement and repairs, and get back to focusing on work, family, and friends instead.
Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.
Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870
Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana or its surrounding counties. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed and insured plumbers, are happy to help you resolve your plumbing problems fast, and at a price you can afford. We offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more! Choose a family owned and operated plumbing company that has served the Hoosier communities for over 100 years! Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for more information about our Indianapolis plumbing services, today.
Often times, water pumps are a part of the home that goes unnoticed. And until a problem occurs, they continue to remain in the back of our minds. But in order to function properly and efficiently, water pumps required routine maintenance just as much as the rest of your home’s plumbing appliances and systems.
If maintenance is neglected, you could face sudden breakdowns and costly repairs when you are least expecting it. Fortunately, water pump maintenance is simple and inexpensive.
Continue reading to learn some valuable water pump maintenance tips, and better protect your home’s plumbing from another disaster.
Water Pump System and Tank Maintenance
Preventative maintenance for your water pump system is important in order to enhance the quality and health of your home’s water, improve the function of your system, and reduce the cost of repairs and replacements. Knowing the on-going needs of your water system can greatly increase the reliability of your overall operation.
It is recommended to have your water pump system inspected and serviced at least once every two to three years. If you are putting a property up for sale on the market, it is best to have the water pump system audited before the inspection process. This will prevent any sudden surprises. At the time of your scheduled water pump service appointment, you will either need to receive routine maintenance, or a complete system replacement.
A professional master plumbing contractor will cover several areas during their inspection process, including the well, pump, tank, wellheads, pump platforms, chlorinators, and the overall function of the system. They will also test and inspect your tank’s water pressure, record water levels, measure pump times and cycle starts, check for leaks, and assess the condition of the pumps. Generally, it is custom to make small repairs and replacements in order to prevent or avoid future plumbing issues and costlier repairs.
Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Service
Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870
Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need master plumbing services in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding locations. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience. As a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company, we offer a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services, including repair, installation, maintenance, and replacement. We also offer plumbing service for water heaters, water softeners, water purification systems, sump pumps, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis plumbing repair and service you can trust.
Winter is a fun and enjoyable time of year for people of all ages. We look forward to wintertime and snowfall because it brings with it the opportunity to enjoy several activities, like sledding, ice skating, ice fishing, and more. But it is important to not let the festivities of winter distract you from your home owner responsibilities! One of the most important systems in our homes is plumbing, and it is most vulnerable to damage in the winter.
One common problem that can lead to plumbing damage and repair is excessive snow accumulation. It is important to constantly manage the snowfall as it builds up around your home. This will not only prevent inconvenient plumbing problems, it will also save money on costly plumbing repairs. Continue reading to learn some possible plumbing problems that snow buildup can cause, and what to do if you find yourself in the same situation.
Sump Pump and Foundation
Your home’s foundation can be effected by large snow accumulation once the snow begins to melt. The excessive amounts of water will seep into the soil around the home’s foundation. This water can continue to seep into the basement and lower floors of the home. Needless to say, this can cause a lot of destruction. Personal belongings, clothing, and furniture can be destroyed by flooding, as well as, an extensive list of structural damages. Not only is this devastating for families, it is usually very stressful and costly to undo.
For this reason, in the case of large snow build up around your home, it is wise to check on your sump pump to ensure it is capable and ready to do its job. Start by inspecting the check valve to ensure that it is properly fitted. If you notice that the pump is running too frequently, it could be an indication of a bad check valve. It is important to have a bad check valve replaced because it prevents pumped water from returning back into the line. You can actually hear the pump running, so you’ll know if it’s running too often.
Gutters and Drains
Even though the temperatures are below pleasing, it is important to still keep up with outdoor winter maintenance if you want to prevent costly repairs and problems. Start by regularly keeping your gutters clear of dirt, debris, and snow. Also, be sure all exposed drains are clear of snow as well. This will prevent plumbing clogs and backups.
Plumbing Pipes
Many people think it is best to turn their heat down low, or entirely off, while they travel in the winter. This attempt to save money can actually be a start of a costly plumbing problem. When a home is too cold in freezing weather, the pipes can actually freeze. This leads to freeze/thaw cycles, and eventually, burst pipes. Not only is this an intrusive repair, it is a tedious and costly one as well. This can be prevented by keeping your house adequately warm when you are home and away. Keeping the thermostat set no lower than 65 degrees should provide the protection your plumbing needs against freezing.
Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.
Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870
Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumber repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing service and repair industry. He repairs, services, replaces, and installs all plumbing parts and systems, as well as, water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, slab leaks, and more! Call 317-784-1870 for information about our affordable and prompt plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.
When it comes to home plumbing, problems can arise at any time, and always unexpectedly. For this reason, it is important to stay equipped for whatever comes your way. Having the right plumbing tools and supplies on hand can be a huge advantage in the case of a plumbing issue or emergency.
Every home should have the basic plumbing tools needed to manage common plumbing problems. Problems like clogged or running toilets, leaky faucets, and jammed garbage disposals can be fixed on your own in minor cases, so long as you are properly equipped with the right tools. Continue reading to learn the basic plumbing tools you should have in your home in the case of a plumbing emergency or issue.
Clogged Toilets
When toilets cause problems, it is no fun for anyone. A functional toilet is the fundamental concept behind refined living. Without indoor toilet plumbing, we are subjected to more primitive means of organic elimination! So when toilets clog or constantly run, go for these plumbing tools:
Plungers – Plungers are great for clogged toilets, as well as, clogged sink and shower drains. Choose from a selection of styles at your local hardware or general store. Prices vary from $8 to $25, depending on the retailer and brand.
Augers – There are two effective augers recommended for different plumbing purposes: hand and closet augers. Hand augers are great for clogged toilets, but also for clogged shower drains, sinks drains, and more. They generally come with over 25 feet of flexible steel cable designed to dislodge solids and release clogs. Closet augers are generally cheaper and shorter in length (3 to 6 ft.), making them perfect for unclogging toilets specifically. Prices vary anywhere from $5 to 50 dollars, depending on brand and retailer.
Running Toilet
If a toilet is running constantly, it may require a fill or flush valve replacement. This can be done on your own using three different types of wrenches: adjustable crescent wrench, metric combination wrench, and a strap wrench. All three tools can be purchase at any local hardware store at affordable prices.
An adjustable crescent wrench will be priced anywhere between 20 and 40 dollars, whereas a combination wrench set will set you back anywhere between $20 and $200, depending on the number or pieces and retailer. And strap wrenches
will cost anywhere between 5 and 40 dollars.
Leaky Faucets
Leaking and dripping faucets are usually the result of a deteriorated washers. You can easily replace these on your own with a few simple beginner tools. These include a screwdriver set, ranging between $10 and $40, a pliers set, also ranging between $10 and $40, and a basin wrench ($5 – $40).
Jammed Garbage Disposals
When the garbage disposal seems to stop working, or jams, you can fix this problem by adjusting the motor beneath the appliance. Use the proper-sized Allen wrench for the opening beneath the garbage disposal. Then insert into the opening and turn both ways. Allen wrench sets generally cost anywhere from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the number of pieces and the brand.
Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.
Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870
Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for all your household plumbing problems and plumbing repair needs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 40 years of experience as a state-licensed master plumber. And our family owned and operated company has served Hoosier communities for more than 100 years! We offer residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in Indianapolis, IN. Call us today at 317-784-1870 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our company.
There are three basic styles of plumbing valves: gate valves, stop valves, and ball valves. Each valve-type has its own individual characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and purposes. However, they can only be used for oil, water, and airflow control if the castings are labeled with the acronym, “WOG”, which stands for water, oil, and gas. Continue reading the learn more about stop, gate, and ball valves, how they work, and how they differ from one another.
Stop Valves
Stop valves operate with the aid of a rubber gasket that shuts off water flow in a pipe. To close off water flow, the rubber gasket is screwed onto a seat located in the middle of the valve. Appliances like sinks, toilets, and outdoor faucets commonly use smaller versions of stop valves. In order for stop valves to work properly, they must be installed in the right direction, in the way of the arrow, so that water flows against the bottom of the rubber gasket. If installed in the wrong direction, the water flow will force the gasket away from the valve.
Gate Valves
Also referred to as, “full-flow” valves, gate valves are commonly used in commercial and industrial pipe and plumbing applications. They are multipurpose bi-directional shutoff valves that are manufactured in a variety of metals, including cast iron, brass, and bronze. They retain a gate-like component inside that either raises or lowers, allowing or discontinuing water flow in a pipe. This gate is controlled by a knob at the top of the valve that twists right and left to open and close the metal gate component. Gate valves are not intended to customize water flow and pressure by adjusting the gate height. They are only intended to be opened all the way, or closed all the way. One downside to gate valves is their vulnerability to corrosion, which overtime, can cause the gate component to stick in the up or down position.
Ball Valves
Ball valves use a stainless steel (or sometimes brass, bronze, copper iron, and more) rotating ball with a hole drilled in its center that pivots in plastic bushings. The ball is generally controlled by a lever that is directly connected to it. It is similar to a gate valve because it also a full-flow type valve. The position of the lever indicates whether the valve is open or closed. The valve is closed if the hole in the ball is perpendicular to the flow of water. If the hole is parallel to the pipe and water flow, the valve is open. Ball valves differ from full-flow gate valves because the flow of water can somewhat be controlled by adjusting the opening of the valve. However, ball valves are not the best option for controlling water flow.
Contact a local master plumber for expert advice regarding plumbing repair, plumbing parts, products, advice, and more. In most cases, water flow issues are best addressed by a trained professional that retains proper tools and resources to effectively undertake a plumbing issue or repair that could possibly lead to indoor flooding.
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, Mark Weilhammer, is a state licensed master plumber with more than 40 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. has been a family owned and operated Indianapolis plumbing company since 1901, and continues to provide proficient plumbing services to all Hoosier communities at the fairest prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about all our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.
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.
Now that summer is mostly here, plants and trees are growing at full speed. Roots grow long, absorbing water and nutrients and passing them along to their host. Tree roots are generally longer, stronger, and bigger than any other plant root; and they only continue to grow in girth and length as time goes on. In fact, trees can grow and thrive for hundreds of years in the right condition!
Although majestic and beautiful, trees and their roots can cause problems for property owners. Aside from the occasional fallen tree or unsightly stump, trees also pose problems as a result of their roots. One of the most common areas affected by tree roots on residential and commercial properties are sewer lines. Now we all know how important our sewer lines are, without an in-depth description of what they do and why they are so beneficial to modern-day plumbing. So with that being said, continue reading to learn how problematic tree roots can cause issues with residential and commercial sewer lines, and what to do about it.
Tree Roots in Sewer Lines
Tree roots can grow strong and penetrate plumbing pipes and sewer lines. This can lead to messy, costly, and tedious repair projects. Sewer lines can backup and become clogged with tree roots and plant matter, over time. Pipes can burst, break, corrode, and deteriorate as a result. Unfortunately, the environments inside sewer lines and plumbing pipes are absolutely ideal for tree roots, which is why they tend to gravitate toward them. The dark, moist environments seem like they would not be a good place for root growth, but in fact, they are. Pipes have everything roots need and want: oxygen, nutrients, and of course, water. They are also attracted to the vapors within sewer lines that escape into the surrounding soil.
Tree roots access pipes by growing into loose joints or cracks. They grow in hair-like masses, creating a perfect obstruction-causing filter for sewer line debris like toilet paper, hair, feminine hygiene products, waste, grease, and other debris that flows through sewer lines. This prevents sufficient water flow, causing clogs that eventually backup the lines. This makes a toilet entirely useless! Routine pipe inspections can help prevent tree roots from penetrating and entangling plumbing pipes and lines.
If you are hearing strange noises coming from your toilet, or notice other issues with your plumbing, you may have a clog in your sewer line. Contact a master plumber for professional inspections, diagnostics, and repairs you can trust.
Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.
Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for expert plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of equally qualified and licensed plumbing contractors, offer a wide range of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. If you need sewer line repair, burst pipe repair, toilet repair, or any other plumbing service, we are the professionals to trust for the best service and most competitive prices in town! Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a licensed Indianapolis master plumber about sewer line repair and more, today.
