With the popularity of home renovation TV shows and internet searches for do-it-yourself remedies, many people try to give their homes a makeover. Home improvements are great — if you hire professionals to do the job. While you can “DIY” some aesthetic improvements or successfully replace some fixtures in the toilet tank, it is critical to leave major plumbing repairs to the pros.
While many homeowners may think that DIY plumbing saves money, hiring a licensed plumber can prevent costly mistakes and flooding. Professional plumbers are skilled in all aspects of the job. Without sufficient knowledge and background, DIY plumbing repair can result in additional damage and expense.
Here are some situations when DIY plumbing repair is a bad idea:
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Drain Cleaning
Grease and random debris can gradually accumulate inside pipes, blocking the flow of water. Many homeowners use store-bought chemicals to eliminate the blockage. However, while these harsh chemicals dissolve the particles, they can also damage pipes, causing more serious plumbing problems.
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Re-Piping
Licensed plumbers are trained in all types of re-piping, including moving or sealing pipes. DIY re-piping usually ends in disaster.
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Frozen Pipes
Even if winter is over, homeowners should be aware of the dangers of fixing frozen pipes. When pipes freeze, it may be tempting to try to thaw them, but improper thawing can be dangerous. Some homeowners use gas heaters and blow torches, which can further damage to the pipes or set the house on fire.
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Basement Waterproofing
Many homeowners experience a wet basement during the spring thaw. Unlike sump pumps and French drains, waterproofing can keep your basement dry in the first place. Basement waterproofing is a labour-intensive task that requires specialized knowledge, skills, and equipment. A professional plumber has the experience and equipment to do the job well. Installation inexperience, use of cheap materials, and unique property challenges often contribute to a low-quality finished result which may require repair in the future.
While there are some small plumbing fixes homeowners can take on themselves, hiring a professional plumber is crucial when tackling big and complex plumbing repairs.
Call Plumbing Authority Inc. at (647) 992-7473. Our licensed plumbers in Newmarket, Ontario can take care of all your plumbing needs and save you money in the long run.