Being a homeowner, as rewarding as it is, is a huge responsibility. When renting, the landlord is in charge of repairs and home improvements at no cost to the tenant. Homeowners, on the other hand, are solely responsible for the maintenance of the homes including the expenses. This underscores the importance of home maintenance check-ups as doing this will prevent costly problems around the house.
Same Day Pros are here to provide you with ideas on how you can avoid extensive repairs in your home. In this article, we will give you tips on how you can prevent expensive plumbing repairs, which include busted pipes, sewer line and main water line replacement.
What are the most expensive plumbing repairs?
- Frozen pipes – When temperatures drop to freezing levels during winter, the water in the pipes turns into solid and therefore blocking the flow of water. When pressure builds up at the area of the blockage, this will add tension to the pipe, causing it to rip apart.
Burst Water Pipes
A burst pipe is a plumbing issue that you don’t want to deal with. This problem requires a major repair since you’re both dealing with a damaged pipe and the water damage caused by the leak. Most homeowners will pay around $500 for a moderate repair, while an extensive fix for new piping on difficult-to-reach areas could cost up to $2,000. On top of the cost of getting a busted pipe fixed, also note that you’re wasting as much as 10 gallons of water each minute due to a burst pipe. This can result in expensive water damage to your property and a hefty water bill. Some homeowners even pay as much as $50,000 when the water damage has already affected the walls, ceiling, floor, or other structures of the house.
Looking for a water damage restoration company? Find pros near you here.
The usual causes of burst water pipes are:
- Old pipes – No matter the material of the pipe (metal or plastic) they are only made to last for a certain period. According to experts, pipes can last up to two decades, but this also depends on whether the pipes are exposed to the elements and if they are regularly serviced. Aged pipes that are corroded or brittle are another cause of burst pipes.
- Clogging – Clogs are the main cause of pipe blockage, which could then result in consequent bursting. Clogging of pipes could be due to the accumulation of minerals that hinders the flow of water, which could cause cracks or burst the pipes open.
- External forces – Some pipes, especially those laid on the ground, are exposed to various external forces; these include pressure from passing cars and growing tree roots. Such pressures could push the pipes beyond their limits, and can cause them to break or burst.
How can you prevent burst pipes?
You can avoid burst pipes during winter by making sure that exposed pipes are insulated. During cold snaps, it’s helpful to turn on faucets and release a steady flow of water to ensure that there is no pressure buildup within the pipes. Another tip is to check for signs (such as molds) if your pipes have previously frozen. If you see early signs of the causes mentioned above, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to do an inspection and prevent serious damages to your plumbing.
- Frozen pipes – When temperatures drop to freezing levels during winter, the water in the pipes turns into solid and therefore blocking the flow of water. When pressure builds up at the area of the blockage, this will add tension to the pipe, causing it to rip apart.
Sewer Line Repairs/Replacement
Did you know that getting a sewer line replacement can cost up to $25,000? Yes, you read that right. Although costs can start at $1,500, you will definitely be spending a lot if you have issues with your main sewer line. And yes, the sewer line that runs from your home to the main sewer on the street is your responsibility. So if anything goes wrong, it’s you who will shoulder the costs.What causes are the signs of an impending sewer line issue?
- Smell of rotten eggs – The smell of a rotten egg or burning sulfur could be caused by sewer gasses that are backing up to the drains. Do not take this symptom lightly as sewer gasses contain hydrogen sulfide gas– a harmful gas that can cause irritation to the respiratory system.
- Gurgling sound – Gurgling sounds that are connected to a possible issue with the sewer line often start in the toilet. If you hear a gurgling sound right after flushing, followed by bubbles and the smell of sewage, there may be a clog forming in the drain pipe. Although the clog could only be present in the affected drain, it is possible that the clog is located in the main sewer line.
- Slow drains – Did you notice that your drains are slower than usual? It is possible that you have a blockage in your main sewer drain. In some cases, clogged sewer drains can even cause drains to reverse causing the sewage to come back up the drains and into your home.
- Erosions in the yard – Another probable sign of a sewer line issue are eroded soils in your yard. Look out for low areas forming in your lawn, which looks wetter or greener compared ot the surrounding areas.
How can you prevent a sewer line damage?
There are a couple of things you can do to avoid having problems with your main sewer line. First, you have to know where your home’s sewer line is so in case you’ll have any landscaping or remodeling projects, you can show the contractor which areas to avoid.
Also, make sure not to plant any tall trees near the main sewer line. Over time, these trees will grow and can bore their roots into the pipes and create serious damage to your lines. Another effective way to prevent expensive sewer line issues is to have the sewer line flushed occasionally and have it inspected by a qualified plumber.
Water Line Replacement
Probably one of the most common issues that you’ll have with your plumbing is related to your water lines. Every now and then you’ll have to spend on pipe repairs. What will cost you huge dollars, however, is when you have your main water line replaced. This job could amount anywhere between $2,000 to $10,000.
Some causes why water lines break include:
- Extreme weather – When the soil around the pipe gets frozen and heats because of extreme weather, the pipes then expand and contract (called thermal expansion), which could cause a rupture.
- Wear and tear – Note that water lines are built to last for such as period of time. When you live in an older home, it would be ideal to have a plumber inspect your water system and have your aged pipes replaced to prevent future problems.
- Ground settling – There are some instances when the ground around the main water line settles and can put stress on the pipes causing it to break.
How can you avoid getting a main water line replacement?
To avoid having costly water line repairs or replacements the best thing to do is to have a professional plumber check your plumbing system as soon as you spot any signs. Some things to look out for are: unexplained puddles of water, hissing or bubbling sounds, low water pressure, signs of water damage, and a sudden spike in your water bill.
How much do plumbers charge per hour?
The cost to hire a plumber varies depending on if you only require repairs or if you need replacements. But to give you an idea, a plumber will charge for a basic plumbing job around $175 to $450, where their rates per hour can run from $45 to $200.
There are also several factors that affect the costs, such as the severity of the issue, how long it will take to complete the work, and if the plumber was hired for emergency service.
Tips to Hiring a Plumber
Thinking of calling in a plumber to inspect or do some repairs on your home’s plumbing? Here are our tips:- Consider hiring only licensed plumbers – in most US states, it is illegal for a contractor to do plumbing work without a license, more importantly, it’s also against the law to hire an unlicensed plumber to complete a job.
- Ask about their experience – Especially if the job is complex and as major as the ones mentioned above, it is important that you hire a plumber who has proven experience. Don’t hesitate to ask the contractor about how long they have been in the industry and if they have previously dealt with the same issue such as yours.
- Inquire about guarantees/warranties – Ask about plumbing warranty as professional plumbers would provide at least a year warranty on plumbing repairs (except on drain cleaning). Plumbing warranties include 100% satisfaction guarantee, all-inclusive warranty, water line repipe warranty, sewer line replacement guarantee, and water heater warranty.
- Ask for estimates – Finally, reputable plumbers offer clients a free estimate. This means they would come to your home to inspect the job required and provide you with an estimated cost. It would be a red flag if a plumber will give you a price without looking at the damage first.
Not all plumbing repairs are expensive as the ones mentioned above. Remember that the key to avoid such costly plumbing issues is to have it repaired immediately by a qualified plumber.
We can help you find a professional plumber near you.
Did you know that getting a sewer line replacement can cost up to $25,000? Yes, you read that right. Although costs can start at $1,500, you will definitely be spending a lot if you have issues with your main sewer line. And yes, the sewer line that runs from your home to the main sewer on the street is your responsibility. So if anything goes wrong, it’s you who will shoulder the costs.
Thinking of calling in a plumber to inspect or do some repairs on your home’s plumbing? Here are our tips:
