Plumbing Leaks And When To Call Your Plumber

5 Signs To Call a Professional Plumber

Plumbing leaks are common in any household, but do you know when it's a quick do-it-yourself fix or when you need to call your local plumbing professional? You might be able to see your faucet drip, but most leaks are hidden from plain sight. Make some time to do a walk through of your house to look for hints that you might need to call a professional. 
1. Take a walk around your house. If it has not been raining (or snowing!) your yard should stay dry. If you notice areas of soft ground, there could be a broken water line. Allowing the leak to go unfixed will not only leave you with a soggy lawn but could also cause damage to the foundation of your home.
2. Look for spare change... One of the easiest way to spot a water leak is to take a glance at your water bill. If your bill is normally around 50 dollars a month and suddenly it's over 200 (or higher!) you need to call a plumber ASAP! If this happens to you, you most likely have some sort of leak or a broken water line. Take a glance at the last few months and make sure your water bill stays steady.  You can also take a look at your water meter. Turn off all of your appliances, and watch the meter for about an hour.  If the water meter has changed, this signifies that you need to call your plumber to take a closer look.
3. Hold your breath, and listen. You know what we will say now, listen for that drip drop of a faucet or the running of a toilet. In your every day life, sometimes it's easy to miss the sounds that just mix right in. Take a moment to really listen to your appliances and make sure that you don't hear the sound of water running. If you do hear water, there could be a leak somewhere under your home or in your walls.  If the water is not turned on - the water has to be going somewhere.
4. Puddle jump inside your house. Okay - don't do that one for real. While wet spots could be a spilled drink or maybe a puppy accident, if the spot does not dry up you most likely have a hidden water leak.  
5. Breathe it all in. If you smell a musty odor in your home it means that somewhere water is lurking nearby.  It's important to have this checked out as soon as possible because musty air could mean mold.  Mold is attracted to damp areas and can cause major health problems for you and your family.

So why should you worry about a little puddle or dripping faucet? Leaving a water leak alone will inevitably cost you a lot of money. Not only will you be paying for the damage but you'll be losing time that's spent repairing it.  If you think that you have a water leak, call your local Mr. Rooter Plumber. 315-472-1203

Tips On Remodeling Your Bathroom

Times are hard, but we are all trying to make due. Some of us have a little extra money here and there that we have been saving up to remodel our bathroom. Two important places that you should invest on is your kitchen and your bathroom. It increases the value of your home and it feels good to have a nice bathroom.

It is important to know the budget before remodeling your bathroom, what is your budget? How much money can you afford for your bathroom remodel? Once you figure out your budget going down your list will be easier.

Ask around for bathroom ideas. Ask friends, family, or coworkers. Look through home magazines. Go online and search whats new and hip. You might have a theme in mind, but it won't hurt to look around. They always have new looks and as you get older your taste changes. Make sure you look at everything before you choose what style you want to go with.

  • Do you want to keep the same bathroom layout? Or can you afford to change/move things around?
  • Do you want a shower, tub, or both? Is your bathroom big enough to fit both? If you are getting a tub, make sure you sit in the tub before you buy it. Who cares if people are looking, get in that tub and make sure you are happy sitting inside of it. Is it deep enough? Is it comfortable? Are you going to have someone else join you in this tub?
  • What kind of vanity do you want? This goes with what style or theme you are going with. Traditional, modern, luxurious, crisp & clean, elegant, romantic, etc. 
  • After you figure out the vanity, the sink is easier to pick out. 
  • Pick out a bathroom floor, remember you have to clean it, make sure it's something easy to clean. Pick something that works with your look, price, durability, and cleaning. 
  • Toilet is a must have. Do you want something with gadgets, fancy, or something comfortable that you'll enjoy reading the paper in the morning. We spend lots of time sitting on the toilet, make sure you like what you pick. 
  • Wall colors, what kind of colors do you have in mind? Painting is a must. It will liven up your bathroom. 
  • Lighting. Depending on your budget, you should spend on lighting. If your budget is limited, you should make it a point to work on the lighting. 
  • Plumbing fixtures. Don't be cheap on your plumbing fixtures. Do your research, and spend some money on your fixtures. Cheap fixtures don't last as long. 
  • If you are getting a curtain rod for your shower or tub, make sure you get a nice shower curtain. Depending on the size of the bathroom, it is one of the first things you notice when you walk it. 
Everyone's bathroom is different. Some bathrooms have not been updated in a long time, others have horrible plumbing, and the lucky ones only need a few touch ups to update the look. Whether you are planning on doing it yourself, have your friends help you, or call a professional, remember it doesn't hurt to call a plumber to give you an estimate. A plumber can walk you through what the bathroom needs or even give you new ideas that you didn't think could fit in there. They can always work with your budget. Good luck and happy remodeling. 

(708)845-7922