Plumber Plumbing Service in Swisher
724 Plumbing Iowa (319) 493-3643
CONNECTING WITH 724 IOWA PLUMBING IN SWISHER IS EASY For over 20 years, we have not stopped at perfectionism. 724 Iowa Plumbing is Swisher’s leading company when it comes to dependable plumbing and heating contractors. We pride ourselves in being steps ahead of our competitors by offering encouragement to customers during tough times while endorsing trustworthiness, fairness, and security to residences and businesses around this busy community.
724 Iowa Plumbing, the professional plumbers for all your plumbing services in Swisher.724 Iowa Plumbing has been in the market for the last 30 years. We have continuously delivered exquisite plumbing services to all Swisher residents. Our quality of service proceeds us! Contact us Now for all your plumbing needs.
Why we are the best
724 Iowa Plumbing is independently owned and focuses on delivering plumbing services in Swisher. Our experience in the market has led us to establish lasting relationship with our clientele and saving customers from plumbing problems.
We understand that leaky pipes, sewer bursts, sinks, toilets, etc. can be a real hustle when trying to fix. Your past experience may have cost you more. Here at 724 Iowa Plumbing, we are dedicated to serving you. We work to ensure your safety and quality in all plumbing services.
Plumbing Fixture Installations
Whether it’s a new kitchen or remodeling your bathroom, there are a wide range of plumbing fixture designs and features you may prefer. At 724 Iowa Plumbing, we meet your specifications and ensure that your plumbing design fixture is fitted professionally.
Common Plumbing Problems
Whether minor or major, our team of highlight qualified plumbers will determine the magnitude of your problem, and issue advisory for free quotes and required work.
- Pipe Upgrades, Replacement, & Relining
When these signs are observed, 724 Iowa Plumbing will come to your aid in detecting the exert point of the leaks and issuing an advisory with free quotes on upgrades, replacement or relining.
Your sewer pipes may crack and result into costly repairs especially when they leak the sewer to pose a health risk. We prioritize sewer line repair as the first line of defense in case of failure. In certain circumstances, if repair fails, we advise our customer on best replacement options.
At 724 Iowa Plumbing, we care for your drainage system with routine maintenance work, and readily available incase of any issues. Calls us today to book for routine maintenance or unclog your system now.
Plumbing emergencies include pipe bursts, major plumbing leaks, toilet overflows, faucet problems and other major issues that need immediate attention.
EMERGENCY ON CALL PLUMBERS SWISHER
No one wants to deal with plumbing emergencies. Emergencies of any kind are never convenient. 724 Iowa Plumbing is Swisher’s top choice for emergency services for residences, commercial businesses, and condominiums. We understand all about Swisher plumbing problems. Malfunctioning plumbing causes serious dilemmas every day for many residences and businesses.
Business owners lose revenue due to the inability to service their clients. Families can’t live in their homes due to dangerous conditions. You are not alone. 724 Iowa Plumbing comes to the rescue 24/7, day or night, on the weekend, and even during holidays.
Top 2 Reasons Why We Can Help
#1 – Emergency services are our specialty, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 724 Iowa Plumbing top-rated technicians are available 24/7 to service commercial, residential and Co-Op condominiums.
#2 – 724 Iowa Plumbing provides state of the art equipment to help. We quickly arrive (we will arrive in less than 30 minutes) to evaluate your clogged drains, burst pipes, gas leaks, dripping faucets, leaky pipes, and water heaters. Our top team of technicians are number one when aiding and assisting in flood disasters.
Master These Basics to Avoid Plumbing Nightmares
Imagine waking up tomorrow to a lake where your basement used to be. Boxes of old family photos and high school yearbooks are completely destroyed. You pinch yourself and realize that this isn’t a nightmare. It’s real life, and your water heater sprung a leak overnight.
It might seem like a dramatic scenario, but plumbing disasters happen every day. Within your home is a complex network of pipes, drains and appliances that all work together to make your life easier.
We tend to forget about things we don’t see, and plumbing systems mostly operate away from the naked eye. But just like everything else, your plumbing is subject to wear and tear. And the best way to avoid a disaster is with a good knowledge of basic plumbing problems and solutions.
Here are our 12 essential plumbing tips that you should master as a homeowner.
#1. Get to know your water main
Your water main is the first access point for water going into your home. It’s typically located in the basement near the water heater. On the water main you’ll see a shutoff valve (either a lever or wheel). This valve will completely stop the flow of water into your home when you close it.
If you ever have to do a major plumbing project, or if you have a situation like a leak or burst pipe, shutting off the water main is going to be the first step you take.
#2. Learn how to deal with clogged drains
At some point, you’re going to have a clogged drain. When we take showers, our hair falls out and it builds up over time. Your first instinct when confronted with a clog might be to use one of those liquid drain cleaners. Big mistake.
That’s right, avoid liquid drain cleaners like the plague. We know, it seems like an easy fix to an annoying problem. But the chemicals in Liquid Plumber and other similar products can harm your plumbing infrastructure. If your sink or tub keeps backing up, get a snake or similar tool that can pull out any debris blocking your pipes.
#3. Keep tabs on water pressure
It’s such an important part of a healthy plumbing system. Just like we get our blood pressure taken every time we visit the doctor, you should be monitoring your home’s water pressure as often as you can. You can pick up a simple pressure gauge pretty cheaply at any hardware or home improvement store.
If you want a more accurate, modern solution, install a smart home water monitoring system like the Flo by Moen. That way you can stay on top of your water pressure in real time, detect leaks and track water usage.
#4. Have a working pressure reducing valve
If you do have high water pressure in your home, you’re going to want to get it down to a safe level. You can do this by installing (or replacing) your pressure reducing valve, or PRV. PRV’s are a must-have in most homes that depend on a municipal water supply. That’s because municipal water companies have to pump water at high pressures to serve fire hydrants, high-elevation homes and high-rise buildings. They often deliver water at over 100 psi, while your home (and all your plumbing fixtures) are designed for pressure in the 50-60 psi range.
#5. Take care of your toilet
You can start by making sure you only flush toilet paper and your own waste down the toilet. Cotton swabs, baby wipes, paper towels and other things can all get caught in your pipes and lead to clogs. If you don’t own a plunger, pick one up the next time you’re out (we all get a clog eventually).
You also want to make sure your toilet is working properly. A running toilet is a telltale sign that one or more components in the toilet tank needs replacing. But sometimes toilet leaks can be so tiny they don’t make any noise. You can check for these invisible leaks by putting food coloring in the toilet tank. After half an hour, check the water in the toilet bowl. If you see any color, you’ve got a leak.
#6. Respect your garbage disposal
Garbage disposals are amazing tools to have in your home but they definitely can’t handle everything. Be especially wary of pouring any fats, oils or grease down the drain. These will solidify when they cool down and can cause buildup in your pipes.
Before running your garbage disposal, let some cold water run into the drain for five or ten seconds first, and continue to run cold water for a few seconds after you stop. Put some ice cubes in the garbage disposal periodically to keep the blades sharp.
#7. Clean out your gutters as often as you need to
While gutters aren’t technically part of your plumbing system, they’re important for keeping water out of your home. Clogged gutters cause water to pool on your roof, compromising the structure and eventually letting that water in. As a homeowner, water damage is something you want to avoid at all costs. You should at least have them cleaned out in early spring and late summer. If you have a lot of pine trees (which shed like crazy) on your property, plan on having them cleaned more frequently.
#8. Protect your pipes from the cold
Water damage from frozen pipe bursts can easily lead to a five-figure repair bill. If you live anywhere that gets cold in the winter, you’re going to want to get your pipes winterized. Make sure your home is properly insulated and any exterior pipes and fixtures have some cold weather protection.
Pipe bursts frequently happen when people are away from their homes for extended periods of time and the thermostats are set too low. So while it might be tempting to try to save a few bucks on your heating bills, keep your home at around 60 degrees if you’re taking a winter vacation.
#9. Know when to replace your water heater
Water heaters have a lifespan. If yours is getting into the double-digits, it’s probably time for a replacement. This is an area where you don’t want to procrastinate. That water heater tank is holding 50 gallons or more. That’s more than enough water to do some serious damage if that tank springs a leak. If you end up replacing your water heater, you should go ahead and replace your sump pump too.
#10. Look for signs of water leaks
Water leaks can happen all over your home. Sometimes they’re out in plain sight, but you’d be surprised often small water leaks fly under the radar. Look for spots of discoloration on walls and ceilings.
A musty, mildew smell in basements, attics or crawl spaces is a common sign of mold buildup, which is often the result of water leaks. Make it a habit to periodically check around water fixtures and appliances for leaks.
#11. Fix dripping faucets
Dripping faucets are annoying. They also waste a ton of water. Even a drop or two every minute adds up to thousands of gallons in a year (and extra dollars on your water bill). Dripping faucets are usually caused by two things: high water pressure, or a faulty component in the fixture. If you have a working PRV, chances are it’s the latter.
Most faucet repair jobs can be done yourself. What you’ll need to do is determine the type of fixture you have. Ball faucets are the kinds you usually find on your kitchen sink. Cartridge faucets and disc faucets are more common in bathrooms. You’ll find DIY repair videos for all three online that will guide you through the repair process.
#12. Find a local plumber and get an inspection
Unless you’re a professional plumber yourself, it’ll pay off big time to add a local plumber to your rolodex. Not every plumbing problem has a simple DIY fix. And having someone on speed-dial that you’re on a first name basis with will make life easier if you end up with a plumbing disaster some time down the road.
Shop around. Ask friends, neighbors or co-workers for recommendations. Find a plumber with a good reputation and give them a call.
The best way to kick-off a new relationship with a plumber is to have them do a home inspection. A professional plumber can give you a report on the state of your entire plumbing system, recommend repairs and help you come up with a preventative maintenance plan.
The average cost of plumbing repairs isn’t easy to determine. Anytime you need to contact a plumber for repair work, you’ll be looking at an average bill of around $400. But, for major repairs that can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, you’ll benefit from getting several quotes for the work. That is, if you have the time to do so before the problem gets worse or causes major inconveniences.
Plumbing Repair Cost Explained
The hourly cost to hire a plumber is only part of the service invoice. Other charges included in the bill are the cost of parts, a percentage markup on those parts and diagnostic inspection charges if needed. Some plumbing companies will also tack on a trip charge for certain jobs. Permit fees, when needed, will be added as well along with any unusual disposal charges incurred.
Small jobs may simply have a minimum charge that makes up the total plumbing repair cost. Some tasks, such as fixture replacements and minor repairs, will be charged at a flat rate barring any unusual circumstances.
Common Plumbing Repair Costs
Everyday life causes normal wear and tear on plumbing systems. It’s likely that, as a homeowner, you will face one, many or all of the following situations.
Most often, a clogged drain is a simple matter of an obstruction blocking the flow of water. A plumber can usually snake out just the affected drain for around $150 on average.
Backups
In the case of a larger backup in which multiple drains and the main house drain pipe is affected, you can expect to spend between $500 and $1,000 depending on severity. This is especially common in older homes with old sewer plumbing. Repairing or replacing heavily damaged sewer lines can cost several thousand dollars. You’ll likely want to gather a few quotes from different plumbers for this kind of project.
Leaks
Supply lines and drain lines can both suffer from occasional leaks. Simple p-trap repairs can be as little as $100. More severe supply line leaks run an average of about $500.
A drippy faucet may simply need it’s internal components replaced. That can be done by a plumber for about $100 to $150. If the fixture has deteriorated too far, replacement installation will cost around $300, plus the cost of a new faucet.
Toilet Repair Or Replacement
Intermittent running water in a toilet is not only annoying, but it can cost $200 to fix. If the toilet itself is the problem, expect to pay around $500 plus the cost of a new toilet to have it replaced.
Sump Pump Repair Or Replacement
Sump pump repair often comes down to replacement. There are few moving parts. If they fail, the pump is usually no longer any good. Installation of a new pump costs about $500, on average, to complete.
Plumbing Appliance Repair
Repairs and installations of appliances can cost between $150 and $400. The price will depend on whether the appliance needs a simple fix, hookup or complete re-installation.
Common Plumbing Repair Average Cost
Clogged drain $100 – $200
Backup $500 – $1,000
Leak $100 – $500
Faucet $100 – $300
Toilet $200 – $500
Sump pump $400 – $600
Appliance $150 – $400
Plumbing Systems Repair Costs
Larger repairs, of course, cost more money. Most homeowners will have to deal with one or more of these situations if they live in the home for more than several years.
Water Heater Repair or Replacement
Water heaters will exhaust their lifespan anytime after 10 to 12 years. It’s not uncommon to have to replace one if you own a home. Repairs can run near $500, while replacements start at about $1,000 and can run up to $7,000 or more for elaborate systems.
Soft Water and Water Treatment System Repair
Not everyone has soft water and water treatment systems. If you do, be prepared to spend between $500 and $1,000 to repair them if they fail.
Main Water Supply Line Repair
In many cities, main water supply lines are partially the responsibility of the city’s water department. That responsibility typically ends where the water meter meets the house’s plumbing. If your city doesn’t own it, or if you need to fix the pipes or valves beyond the meter, you can expect a $500 to $1,500 plumbing bill.
Main Drain Line Repair
If your home’s main drain line needs repair, the $500 you’ll spend on the plumber is often the least costly part of the equation. Main drains are typically buried well below the house where access is difficult. Digging to reach the pipe and putting the house back together after the repair is complete, will likely be the expensive part of the project.
Sewer Repair
Some sewer problems can be repaired without digging up the ground. Unfortunately, it’s still quite expensive to do and not always possible. Expect to spend around $4,000 to $6,000 for a major sewer repair.
Less Common Repair Costs
The following plumbing repair items won’t apply to every household or are rare enough that we can hope you’ll never have to confront them. If you do, however, this is what you can expect to pay.
Sometimes small sections of pipe need to be replaced. This can be done for as little as $300. If an entire house full of plumbing needs to be replaced it could cost up to $7,000 depending on the house. If lead-based pipes are encountered, the law requires that they be replaced. This can add several hundred dollars to a simple repair.
Septic System Repair
Location of, and access to, a septic system malfunction are the big factors regarding septic system repairs. These repairs average about $2,000.
Well Pump Repair
If your home’s water is supplied through an individual well and it stops working, it’ll cost around $1,000 to get it repaired. This is assuming that major overhauling and digging isn’t involved.
Plumbing Systems Repair Average Cost
Water heater $500 – $1,500-plus
Soft water or treatment system $500 – $1,000
Main water supply line $500 – $1,500
Main drain line $500+
Sewer $4,000 – $6,000
Pipe replacement >$300
Septic System $1,500- $2,500
Well pump $750 – $1,300
Emergency Plumbing Repair Cost
If you can shut off the water and wait until morning to call the plumber, you’ll save money. Emergency response plumbing will incur an extra trip charge, of at least $100, and 50% to 100% more per hour. Expect an extra $300 to $400 on the bill, at a minimum.
Minimize Your Plumbing Costs
Plumbing repair can be expensive. There are a few ways to cut your costs though. These simple tricks will leave more money in your pocket. A little plumbing know-how provides peace of mind as well.
System Maintenance
Maintenance work can sound expensive for what you get, but can save a lot of money in the end. Having your plumbing systems, heating boiler, water heater and main drain lines inspected every few years will cost a few hundred dollars to have done. The money saved by identifying potential problems early, though, can amount to a small fortune by avoiding big and unexpected repair bills later.
Some DIY maintenance can be periodically performed as well. Replacing the toilet flapper every couple of years is a simple thing to do that can save big bucks. Quickly snaking out sink drains every few months with a residential plumbing snake can keep serious clogs from happening. Checking the operation and backup battery of your sump pump before the rainy season starts minimizes the chances of potentially serious water damage.
Delay Emergencies
The cost of plumbing repair skyrockets when it happens during non-working hours. You can save money by delaying a call to the plumber until the next day. Locate the water shut-off valves for each faucet, toilet, water heater and appliance and become familiar with how to operate them.
If a leak or clog happens in the middle of the night, you can simply shut off the water supply to the offending fixture or pipe and go back to sleep until morning when it’ll be cheaper to call a plumber. Remember to shut off the gas or electrical supply to the water heater if you turn off the water to it.
To prepare for a worst-case scenario, locate and learn how to use the main water supply shut off valve to the house.
Plumber Cost Tips
Saving money on a plumber doesn’t mean you need to cut corners. In fact, hiring a licensed pro means knowledgeable and insured work that avoids costly future repairs. Follow these tips to find the right plumber, keep in budget and avoid future problems.
It’s always best to shop for a new plumber before your kitchen sink turns into Niagara Falls. Waiting never makes a plumbing problem better.
Get a firm estimate in writing. Make sure you’re apprised of any problems that arise.
Multiple factors affect cost: fixture quality, quantity, job time, location and when you need the job done. Holidays, weekends and after-hours emergencies cost more.
Be aware of first-hour and trip fees. Most plumbers and rooting companies charge upfront fees or higher rates for the first hour just for showing up, though those fees usually can roll into the cost of repairs and renovations.
Going for the lowest bids can be problematic. Some companies offer lower hourly rates, but then tack on equipment fees and other extras you might not have anticipated.
Not all companies employ licensed plumbers. If the job is a simple root-out-the-clog, that might be okay, but licensed plumbers are almost always better at diagnosing tricky problems. Expect them to bring micro-cameras and other fun gadgets, and to warranty their work.
Consolidate jobs to save money. If you know you’ve had a leaky faucet in your bathroom for weeks, ask your plumber about it while he or she is working on your toilet. It could save you money in the long run. Learn more about how to fix a leaky shower faucet.
How to Estimate Plumbing Jobs
Estimating a plumbing job is best left to the professionals. However, our guides linked to throughout this article are the best first step to understanding pricing. Understanding basic plumbing is an excellent second step. Not only does this help you diagnose potential problems before they become costly ones, but it’ll help you understand what a plumber does.
FAQs
What type of pipe material is used in my home?
To determine what type of plumbing material you have in your home, follow our piping guide below:
Copper: Plumbing in home built from the 1970 into the early 2000s was likely built with copper pipes. These pipes are a bronze color when new and slowly fade to a deep rust or brown color over the years. Copper pipes last about 50+ years.
Galvanized Steel: If you pipes are a gray metal color, they’re likely made of galvanized steel. This material is cheaper than copper and was often used in homes leading up to the 1970s. The material was used less when builders discovered it only lasted for about 40 years.
PB (polybutylene): This piping is usually marked with “PB2110.” These flexible pipes are usually gray but can also be black or blue.
PVC (polyvinyl-chloride): The white plastic pipes are most commonly seen under your kitchen or bathroom sinks used as drain pipes.
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene): Plastic tubing that is usually white, red, or blue and used to indicate hot and cold lines. Plumbers use this type of material because of its flexibility.
Cast Iron: This pipe has a black finish and was used in homes through the mid-1960s.
What are the most common plumbing problems?
Plumbing problems are sure to happen. Even in newer homes, clogged drains or a water leak can show when you least expect it. Whether you’re living through the repairs or an older home, or just purchasing a new home and want to be prepared, these are the most common plumbing problems:
- Clogged toilet
- Clogged bath or shower drain
- Jammed garbage disposal
- Leaky faucets
- Leaky pipes
- Low water pressure
- Running toilet
- Sewage smell in home
- Sewer system backup
- Slow draining sink
- Water heater repair
Why you should never unclog your drains without a plumber
When you’re dealing with minor clogs, it’s possible that you are thinking about how DIY remedy will work to clear your pipes. However, do-it-yourself methods of drain cleaning are never a completely viable solution to your plumbing problems. DIY methods of drain cleaning like drain snaking your drain with a wire hanger and pouring harsh chemicals down your drain never come without consequence. Your drains are an essential part of your property that should be taken care of with precision and accuracy. Using at-home methods of drain cleaning involve unnecessary guesswork that only temporarily mask your plumbing problems instead of solving them all together. Snaking your drain on your own only reaches surface clogs and blockages and not deeper ones within your pipe that could be causing the actual problems. In addition, chemical drain cleaner use toxic ingredients that create a slime and sludge within your pipes that can stay within your pipe for long periods of time. Instead of trying to fix your plumbing problems on your own, call your team of local experts at Iowa Plumbing today.
How do I clean my plumbing system?
The best way to clean your home plumbing system is with a non-toxic Hydro Jetting treatment form your AL plumber. Schedule a Hydro Jetting treatment for your home every two to three years.
What is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro Jetting does not use chemicals. By forcing water through your pipes at nearly 4000 PSI, the Iowa Plumbing team can remove buildup, debris, and tree roots. The water is sprayed at an extremely high pressure and flushes away the debris, allowing water and waste to flow through your plumbing freely.
How do I avoid clogged pipes?
Clogged pipes can be a major inconvenience. Whether it’s a slow-draining tub or a severe blockage in your main sewer line, addressing the problem immediately will help prevent further damage. The best way to prevent clogged pipes is to be mindful of what you put down your drains and toilet. Use these tips as a guide:
Run cold water when using the garbage disposal
- A drain strainer should be used if there is no garbage disposal
- Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain
- After washing dishes, run hot water to rinse away grease
- Clear drain stoppers in shower and bathtub
- Only flush waste and toilet tissue down toilet
- Pump septic tank every two to three years
- Avoid coffee grounds, bones, grease, fruit peels and other fibrous foods in garbage disposal
What is a plumbing emergency?
As helpful as it would be, plumbing problems don’t just occur during regular business hours. When leaks and clogs present themselves on the weekend or the middle of the night, you must determine if it constitutes a call to your emergency plumber. Each homeowner will ultimately decide what ranks as an emergency, but our checklist can help:
Does the problem only affect one faucet, drain, or shower? If the problem is secluded to only one pipe, it can likely wait until Monday morning. Can you shut off a water valve to make the problem stop? If you can pause the problem temporarily, wait until normal business hours to call the plumber. Does the water work? If your water is completely shut off (and it’s not a municipality problem) call the emergency plumber. Is flooding occuring? If a burst pipe or water main break is causing flooding in or outside of your home, you’re dealing with an emergency.
Do I have a water leak?
Detecting a water leak can be difficult if your home is built on a slab or your pipes run underground. The most common signs of a water leak include:
Damp or spongy flooring
Unexpected Increase in monthly water bill
Sound of running water coming from walls
Loss in water pressure
Grass is greener in one part of yard
If you experience any of these issues, contact your AL plumber for leak detection service.
How do you repair a slab leak?
A slab leak is when a water pipe beneath your home’s slab bursts or leaks. An underground pipe leak can cause the soil to become saturated and cause the slab to shift or sink. A spot repair technique is the most common way to repair a slab leak. If the piping beneath the slab is old or suffering advanced corrosion, a more permanent repair may be to re-pipe or move the plumbing.
How long do water heaters last?
The typical water heater lasts 8 to 12 years. Routine maintenance will help extend the life of your unit. If you have a traditional tank, draining the water heater once yearly will help rid the unit of sediment and minerals that can settle at the bottom. If your water heater isn’t advanced in age and is showing signs of trouble, call a water heater repair technician in to get your unit running efficiently.
What’s the best temperature for a hot water heater?
A number of factors go into the best temperature for your water heater. The EPA recommends a setting between 120 and 140 degrees. It’s important to not go below that recommendation as bacteria can grow in water that is too cool, threatening your family’s health. If the temperature is set too high, you’ll waste energy and risk scalding burns with water usage.
How do I unclog a toilet?
A clogged toilet is problematic for your home and can quickly turn into a health risk if waste is not disposed of properly. If your toilet isn’t flushing, try removing the clog with one of these methods:
Plunger: Seal the plunger around the toilet drain and plunge rapidly several times. If the plunger doesn’t release the clog, try a plumbing snake.
Plumbing auger: A plumbing snake can be pushed through the toilet drain to grab a clog.
If neither of these methods work and the water from the toilet is not releasing, call a plumber immediately.
Do I need a new toilet?
If you continuously have problems with your toilet, it may be time to replace it. A few signs that it’s time to replace your toilet include:
Continuous clogs
Multiple flushes after each use
Age (toilets 10 years or older aren’t energy efficient)
Will you have to tear up my yard to repair the sewer line?
With trenchless sewer repair techniques used by Iowa Plumbing, we can complete most sewer line repair work without excavating. Traditional sewer repair creates a double cost to property owners – the sewer line repair and then repairing yard work, driveway, or flooring. With trenchless sewer line repair, our technicians solve your plumbing problems with minimal invasion to your property.
Types of trenchless sewer repair:
- Pull-in-place lining
- Inversion lining
- Epoxy coating
- Each of these processes has as different set of requirements and its own pricing scale.
How do I stop tree roots from invading my plumbing?
Tree roots that invade your plumbing can create severe damage if not remedied quickly. Tree roots can break through underground plumbing, blocking the flow of water and waste to and from your home. To avoid tree root invasion, try one of these methods:
Tree Removal: If the tree continues to be a problem, have it professionally removed. The cost of tree removal will be minimal compared to constantly repairing your plumbing.
Root Barrier: Install a root barrier around any new trees by digging an 18 to 24-inch trench around the root zone. The barrier will keep the roots from invading your pipes.
Routine Plumbing Maintenance: Have a camera inspection performed every two to three years to detect invasive roots. You can spot small plumbing concerns before they become expensive repairs.
Sewer Line Cleaning: Hydro Jetting is an environmentally friendly way to clean your pipes. The intense water pressure can cut through clogs, debris and tree roots.
Does homeowners insurance cover burst pipe damage?
Damage caused by broken pipes is one of the most common homeowners insurance claims. Most insurance companies will cover damage caused by leaking or burst pipes if the damage wasn’t preventable. There are steps you can take to avoid broken pipes or leaking appliances:
Ensure tubs and showers are caulked and sealed properly
Inspect for leaking faucets indoors and outside
Insulate pipes if you live in a cold climate
Routinely inspect appliance hoses on your dishwasher or washing machine and replace as needed
How do I prevent pipes from freezing?
Prevent frozen pipes by following these pipe insulation steps:
Run heating cable along the pipes before covering with insulation. The cable will keep the pipes at a constant temperature.
Inspect the outside of your home looking for visible cracks near the foundation or basement. Use spray foam or caulking to fill cracks.
Shut off the water valves to your outdoor faucets. Allow excess water to drain then cover the faucets with an insulated dome to prevent freezing.
Allow the warm air in your home to reach the pipes beneath your sinks by opening the cabinet doors.
Have your HVAC system checked annually to prevent your heating system from crashing during the winter months. The freezing temperatures can quickly affect your pipes.
Allow a small, slow drip to come from your faucets. Running the water even a minimal amount will help prevent frozen pipes.