Max Sheppard asked:




Plumbing is something everyone must deal with, whether finding a plumbing contractor for new construction, a remodeling project, or just providing plumbing repair.

When Do I Need to Call a Plumbing Contractor?

Some common problems found with plumbing include:
Rattling pipes; may be caused by several factors, most commonly because they are not sufficiently secured or strapped to the wall frame. The pipes may need to be properly secured.
Slow drains; may be partially clogged. If a kitchen sink, the dishwasher may be improperly plumbed. The drain may need to be unclogged, or the dishwasher plumbing corrected.
Loss of hot water when another faucet is turned on; especially in older homes when hot and cold water pressures are not balanced. A pressure balance valve may be required.
Toilet tank leaks; plumbing parts inside the tank or seals may need replacing.

To make sure these plumbing repair problems are properly addressed, or when doing a remodeling project, you may want to enlist the services of a licensed plumbing contractor.

Plumbing a Remodel or New Construction

A remodeling project might include new plumbing design or new plumbing installation. You will want to meet with the plumber and all contractors involved and develop a timeline, so everyone works together and the project goes smoothly.

Before taking bids from potential plumbing contractors, make sure you have detailed plans. Provide each candidate with an identical copy of the plans. Rule of thumb is to get at least three different bids for a project.

Ask candidates if they are licensed to do plumbing. Also request references. Ask each candidate when they could start, and when the project would be completed. Take the time to check references on other projects they have completed.

To find a licensed Plumbing contractor in your area, use references from people you know, or check with a local licensing agency. Online resources are also available; people in Canada can find a qualified, licensed plumbing contractor at http://www.handycanadian.com.

Heather P asked:


I am currently receiving unemployment benefits in CT and am thinking about starting my own home improvement business. Does anybody know how that will affect it? Would i stop receiving benefits right when I register the business or once I start bringing home a paycheck? Any feedback is appreciated

Helen Cox asked:




The term plumbing is taken from the Latin word ‘plumbum,’ which stands for lead. Plumbing is the skilled trade of working with pipes, tubing and plumbing fixtures for drinking water systems and the drainage of waste. The plumbing industry is a basic and substantial part of every developed economy in order to supply clean water and to transport waste.

Plumbing originated during the ancient civilizations such as the Greek, Roman, Persian, Indian, and Chinese civilisations. This is because the need for plumbing was soon realised as public baths were developed to provide portable water and drainage; however the development and improvement of plumbing systems was very slow with virtually no progress made until the 19th century. Eventually however the development of separate, underground water and sewage systems eliminated open sewage ditches and cesspools.

Since the development of the plumbing system in the 19th century the materials used in present day plumbing systems involve a network of high-pressure pumps and pipes, which as now made of copper, brass, plastic, steel and cast-iron, lead is no longer used in the installation of modern plumbing systems due to its toxicity.

If you are having problems with your plumbing system it is important that you know where your Stop Cock is. Your stop cock is a valve used to turn off the water supply to your house. It is important that you know where it is so you can turn the water off and prevent damage in the event of a leak within your house. You will also save you money if a plumber needs to work in your house because he will not have to spend time searching for the stop cock.

There are a few things that you can do to help your plumbing systems work better and last longer. Aspects such as using drain cleaners can help to keep your plumbing system flowing. Drain cleaners are a good solution to fix blocked drains, which is why it is a good idea to always have a bottle on hand. You should also insulate your pipes in the winter to prevent them freezing in the winter months. If you pipes however do freeze you can use a heat lamp to help them slowly unthaw.

Some common plumbing problems that you may come across are things such as the following:

• Rattling pipes – the reason behind this may be caused by several factors such as your pipes not being sufficiently strapped to the wall, you may need to re-secure your pipes

• Slow drainage – the most common reason for this is due to clogged pipes and as previously mentioned this can easily be taken care of by using a drain solution

• Loss of hot water when another faucet is turned on – this is especially common in older houses where the hot and cold water pressures are not balanced. You may need to re-balance the valves

• Toilet tank leaks – the plumbing parts inside the tank will most likely need replacing

If you experience any problems with your plumbing system it is important that you enlist the help of a professional to fix the problem.