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What is Pipe Repair?

A Plumber Repairs a Broken Pipe in a Wall.

What is pipe repair

Have you noticed signs of water damage on your floors, walls or ceilings like stains or warping? Has your water bill mysteriously gotten higher? These are just a couple of signs of a pipe leak, and signs your pipes need to be repaired. Pipe repair could mean anything from patching a hole to replacing a section of pipe under a sink to digging up pipe in a yard to repair it.

Whether you have a small leak under your sink, or have discovered a leak behind a wall, when you need pipe repair in Indianapolis, IN, count on the trusted professionals at Grateful Plumber for superior service. We offer a full range of plumbing services. Find out how we can help you by calling 317-677-4918

How do you seal a leaking pipe?

Obviously, when you have a major leak in your main water or sewer line, you’ll want to call in a professional as soon as possible to fix the leak. But if the leak is visible and something you can get to easily, you can make a temporary pipe repair to stop the leak until you can get help from a professional. One item you might have available is plumbers tape or Teflon tape, and you may wonder “Will plumbers tape stop a leak?” The answer is “yes,” but it has to be applied to the thread connection properly or the fittings could leak. It’s best to wind the tape counterclockwise around the threaded fitting to keep the tape from unwinding. The tape needs to be stretched tightly to ensure success.

Sealing a leak with plumbers tape is just one method you can use to make a repair. Outlined below are some other methods to repair the leak.

Method 1

  • Always start by shutting off the water.
  • Drain the pipes of remaining water by turning on the faucet it’s connected to.
  • Follow up by drying the area of the leak with a cloth.
  • Use epoxy or plumbers putty and knead it into a ½-inch thick length to wrap around the leak. Taper the edges to form watertight seal and secure the putty with plumbers tape. Let the epoxy set for 5 to10 minutes before turning the water on.

Method 2

  • Purchase a pipe clamp that is the same size and length as your leak 
  • Align the clamp’s rubber gasket over the leak and seal it over the leak.
  • Fit the clamp over the gasket and tighten the bolts.

Method 3

  • Buy a slip coupling that matches the type and size of pipe.
  • Hold the slip covering against the pipe and make marks on the pipe that are the same length as the slip covering.
  • Cut away the marked leaking pipe with a pipe cutter or hacksaw.
  • Clean the inside of the pipe with a deburring tool.
  • Insert the coupling onto the ends of the pipe.

Who is responsible for a broken water pipe?

When a main water line breaks, you have a major problem. In some cases, the utility company is responsible for the pipe repair. If a pipe bursts between the road and the boundary of the road (the communication pipe), the utility company is responsible for the repair. From the property boundary to your home (the supply pipe), you are responsible for any repair. Depending on your utility company, some may provide leak detection services. Many plumbing professionals like those at Grateful Plumber offer a full range of pipe leak detection and repair services.

Pipe repair without excavation

Unfortunately, when main water lines burst most of the time the pipes will be underground or under your home. Traditionally, when a repair was required, plumbers would have to dig up a large portion of your property to first locate the burst pipe and then make the repair. Once the repair was made, the property had to be landscaped again. These repairs were often very expensive. 

Now, however, while some cases may require trenching you have repair options that require very little excavation. There are various trenchless plumbing repair methods available now. Plumbers use special cameras that they can send down the pipe through an access point to find the leak. The repairs are then made using one of two methods, either pipe relining or pipe bursting. 

With pipe relining, a resin-coated flexible tube is sent down the existing pipe and the resin is allowed to cure. This seals the leak and creates a pipe in a pipe. Only a single access point needs to be dug into the ground. With pipe bursting, a whole new pipe is pulled through the old one, breaking the old one apart. Usually just two access points need to be opened for pipe bursting. 

Repair pipe under foundation

When you have a pipe leak under your home’s foundation, also known as a slab leak, you usually have one of two options available for pipe repair. Plumbers will either have to dig through the foundation from above once the leak is detected to make the repair, or they will have to tunnel under the foundation and make the repair. Tunneling is often less expensive because no repairs have to be made to the foundation and flooring afterward.

How much does it cost to repair a broken pipe?

Costs to repair a broken pipe will vary. Much of the cost will depend on the severity of the damage and the location. On average, it costs about $250 to repair a leak. Pipe repair often involves more, however, than just fixing the pipe. The cost of the repair may include leak detection which runs anywhere between $150 to $850. Trenchless repairs like pipe bursting cost anywhere between $100 to $200 per foot. 

In some cases, a burst pipe may cause significant water damage to your home. Restoration costs can run anywhere between $1,000 to $2,000 or more. You may consider claiming water damage restoration on your insurance, but before you do, you may want to consult professional adjusters for flood and water damage insurance claims help.

If you can get help from insurance with water damage restoration, you may wonder, “Does homeowners insurance cover burst pipe?” The answer is “yes,” if the damage was caused suddenly. If the pipe bursts because of neglected maintenance, then the insurance will not pay for it. Check with your insurance company to make sure of what your policy covers.

A Plumber Works on Pipe Repair on a Sewer Line.

Pipe repair near me

If you need pipe repair in Indianapolis, IN, you can count on the professionals at Grateful Plumber. We offer a full range of plumbing services. Find out how we can help by calling 317-677-4918.

How Do I Get My Toilet To Stop Running?

Your toilet repair is in good hands with our repair experts

How Much Does a Plumber Charge to Fix a Toilet?

Generally, it costs between forty-five to one-hundred and ninety-seven dollars to repair a toilet on your own. If you do hire a plumber, the national average is slightly higher. The range vacillates between $130 and $310 to have a professional plumber perform the repairs. Typically, the hourly charge for a plumbing contractor is approximately $72 to $82. This labor charge does not include parts or materials.

How do I Get My Toilet to Stop Running?

One of the things that you can do to stop your toilet from running is to adjust the float. A float that is set too low will produce a weak flush. If the float is set too high, water spills into the toilet overflow tube and the fill valve won’t have the capacity to shut off. In cases such as these, the toilet will keep running. In order to alleviate the running, you will need a few tools. These tools include cutting pliers, pliers, and rubber gloves. The first step is checking the fill tube. Reattach the fill tube and push it firmly onto the fill valve. Make sure it perches about 1 in. above the rim of the overflow tube. After this is done, flush the toilet and watch the water stream to ensure it goes down the toilet overflow tube.

The next step is to adjust the fill height by checking the float. The specifications for your float should follow the indicated parameters described above.

How Do You Fix Toilet?

There are several ways that you can fix your toilet if you have a basic understanding of how toilets work. For instance, the toilet fill valve is the mechanism that fills the tank with water. Sometimes this mechanism is referred to as the ballcock or a refill valve. The fill valve is usually located on the left side of the tank. One of the best ways to understand more about what problems your toilet may be displaying is to remove the tank lid and watch what happens during the flush cycle. Whether you need to repair the flush valve or need to fix a loose flush handle, each of these items is easily diagrammable and fixable. If you ask your local plumber to explain how they fixed your toilet, they will likely be happy to explain what went wrong, and how to fix it in the future.

What’s Wrong With My Toilet?

Toilet repair and installation is an absolutely valuable service when the time comes. One of the most common problems that can occur with your toilet is something called ‘phantom flush.’ This phenomenon describes a toilet that cuts on and off by itself or runs intermittently. The cause of the phantom flush is linked to a very slow leak from the tank into the bowl. A bad flapper or bad flapper seat is usually the culprit behind this common toilet problem.

Why Does My Toilet Not Flush Completely?

The reason why your toilet is not flushing all the way is likely because of a couple of reasons. One of the problems could be because the water in your toilet tank is set too low. It could also be because there is a problem with your flapper. Another reason why your toilet may be having problems with flushing is that there is a clog in the toilet, flange, or drain. Have you recently had damage to your building? Is your insurance not giving you the coverage you deserve? There are a number of reasons why a building insurance claim review in Martinsville, IN would benefit your building, and you. If you aren’t being treated fairly by your insurance company, a public adjuster is a safe and responsible choice. 

How to Fix Toilet Flush Valve

Let’s start by discussing where the toilet flush valve is located. The flush valve is located in the middle of the tank. The flush valve includes the overflow tube, the hole where water enters the bowl when the toilet is flushed. A broken flush valve prevents your toilet tank from forming a seal to hold water in the tank. It’s a fairly common problem. The first thing you should do is drain the toilet tank. Next, remove the toilet tank. Gently place it upside down on a rug or an old towel. You can then install a new flush valve unscrewing the spud nut with a spud wrench. Remove the old flush valve. After that, slide the cone washer onto the tailpiece of the new flush valve. Insert the flush valve into the tank opening so that the overflow pipe faces the fill valve.

How to Repair Toilet Tank

Are you looking to repair your toilet tank? Please review the following bullet points to learn more about this important process.

  • Turn off the water at the shut-off valve.
  • Drain the entirety of the tank.
  • Use an adjustable wrench to hold one of the tank bolt nuts.
  • Next, you will unscrew the tank bolts with the screwdriver.
  • You can now remove the tank from the bowl and lay it down.
  • Remove the old spud washer.
  • Insert your new spud washer.
  • Remove the bolts and gaskets, and clean around the holes on the tank.
  • Place the new gasket onto each bolt.

How to Repair Toilet Flange

Repairing a toilet flange is usually synonymous with replacing a toilet flange. In order to do so, you much lay the toilet on its side and put the new wax ring on the round mouth that sits on top of the flange. Next, you can then replace the toilet by lining up the holes on the toilet base with the two bolts. You can then press down to seal the wax ring with the flange. You can replace the nuts on the bolts.

Toilet repair can increase your toilet's efficiency today

Toilet Repair or Replace

It can feel difficult to understand whether or not you should repair or replace a toilet. At the end of the day, it depends on how many problems are recurring with the toilet and how old the toilet is. If the toilet is more than twenty years old, and there are significant problems with the toilet, you may actually want to replace it. In circumstances where the toilet is perfectly fine and has one or two issues, it may not be necessary to do more than a few straightforward repairs.

Our company can help you with your toilet repair. Our staff at Grateful Plumber are ready to take your phone call at 317-677-4918. Discover more about what a great toilet repair in Indianapolis, IN can do for your home!

What Would Cause a Hot Water Heater to Stop Working?

A Man Fixing a Water Heater.

How Do I Know If My Water Heater Is Bad?

If you own a home, you know how important a water heater is. With the help of a water heater, you have access to hot water immediately. This makes it easier to wash clothes, clean dishes, and take to showers and bathe. So when our water heaters fail, this can make doing daily chores really hard to do. A lot of people who are having issues with their water heater might ask why it has stopped and there are several reasons why a water heater can stop working completely. Sometimes it has to do with the heating element, there is something wrong with the pilot light, there is a lot of sediment buildup, or there the thermostat is having issues. Knowing when to get water heater repair is key so you can avoid a complete water heater replacement. So when is water heater repair required? Here are signs your water heater is needing repair service.

  • No Hot Water: Have you turned on the hot water tap and no water is coming out of the faucet? Then there is probably something wrong with your water heater.
  • Insufficient Hot Water: If you turn on the hot water tap and the water only gets lukewarm, that is also a sign you need your water heater looked at.
  • Strange Noises: Rumbling, banging, or popping noises coming from your water heater are not normal–while a water heater makes a little noises when it turns on and operates, popping, banging, and rumbling need to be inspected.
  • Murky Water: Water that has a murky or cloudy look to it means that there is a buildup of mineral sediments, which make it hard for the water heater to heat up water.
  • Metallic Taste: Has your water started to have a metallic taste to it? This could also be a sign of mineral sediment buildup.
  • Leaking Tank: A lot of people ask, “Is it dangerous to have a leaking water heater?” and the answer is yes. It can cause electrical fires if its around electrical components and it can also cause mold growth if water isn’t cleaned up right away. When the top or bottom of the water heater tank leaks, then it will need to be replaced.

Water Heater Repair Vs Replace

There is always the big debate when you are having water heater issues, whether to you need water heater repair or replace service. We know when a water heater needs repairs, but how do you know when your water heater needs replacing? There are a couple of ways to tell if you need to get a water heater replacement over a repair. The most common reason you would get a water heater replacement would be due to the age of the water heater. A gas water heater generally lasts eight to 12 years, whereas an electric water heater lasts 10 to 15 years. If your water heater is over its lifespan and its having a lot of issues, then you might need to get a replacement. Another reason you would want to get a water heater replacement is if your water is rusty. Rusty water means there is sediment buildup, if the jacket in the water heater leaks, or the pipes start to corrode. Lastly, leaks coming from either the top or bottom of the tank will always result in a water heater replacement. That is because there are cracks in the water tank and those can’t really be repaired.

How Long Do Hot Water Heaters Usually Last?

Depending on what type of water heater you have is going to depend on how long it lasts. If you have an electric water heater, then you can expect it to last 10 to 15 years; gas water heaters, on the other hand, will only last eight to 12 years. Many people ask, “Should I replace my water heater before it fails?” and its never a bad idea to replace your water heater if you think its going to fail. This will prevent any service calls or additional costs. If you know that your water heater is on the brink of failing and water heater repair service won’t be able to fix it, its probably worth it to replace it as soon as possible so you aren’t left without a functioning water heater.

Water Heater Repair Cost

A Man Fixing a Water Heater.

Who to Call for Water Heater Repair

There are many factors when determining the cost of water heater repair. You will need to take into consideration the problem the water heater is experiencing, if its a tank or tankless water heater, or if its an electric or gas water heater. The average cost for water heater repairs are usually $200 to $500, with the minimum cost being somewhere around $50 and the maximum cost being around $1,000. If you think you need water heater repair in Indianapolis, IN, you can call the plumbers at Grateful Plumber. Just like an acrylic roof coating can save a roofing system, so water heater repairs can save a water heater from a whole water heater replacement. To find out more about our services, just call our office at 317-677-4918!

Are Home Water Filtration Systems Worth It?

White Water Filter Cartridge Next to a Glass of Water

Learn More About Water Filtration Systems

A water filtration system is also known as (POE) point of entry systems that usually are installed on your main water line or at any point of entry before the water goes into the water heater and distributes into various rooms of the property. A water filtration system for a home can allow for cleaner water in such rooms as your laundry, kitchen, bathrooms and more. Each municipality has a water treatment facility that gets rid of contaminants yet they can also be susceptible to certain ones making their way to your home through traveling city-wide pipes. As of such, each city has yearly reports accessible to the public available on their website regarding water contaminants that are susceptible to be present from their sources of water. Usually, water treatment services will be able to provide you with a report to see what filtration systems could be most beneficial for you. Only with water treatment experts will you have proper water filtration system installations that will benefit your property.  (Additionally, if you’re having any problems with your water and require water damage insurance claim help reach out to a professional for assistance.)

Do whole home water filters work?

A whole-home water filtration system is able to remove contaminants passing through your water through filters down the waterline. Depending on the extent of how small particles or contaminants you want to be removed, there are numerous systems or filters that can be implemented for more powerful removal in order to get optimally cleaner water. 

Does water filtration systems increase home value?

A water filtration system can increase the resale value of a home and make up for the costs of installations as well.

What’s the difference between a water softener and water filtration system?

A water softener will take hard water and make it easier to consume by changing the taste yet it won’t purify your water. Inside the filter there are sodium ion covered beads which turn the calcium and other chemicals that make water hard into the softer positive ions of sodium. In all technicality, calcium is being replaced with sodium so you’re introducing salt into the water. With a water filtration system, you’ll have filters that will take away contaminates and chemicals through various steps in order to make water healthier. This is why it’s important to do your research to see what types of filters will cater to your health. In the water filtration system vs water softener debate, you may conclude that a water softener will improve the taste while a water filter system will improve both on the taste and make water healthier and cleaner.

Three Stage Water Filters With Dirty Glass & Clean Glass of Water

Contaminants That Water Filters Can Remove

  • Salts
  • Minerals
  • Antimony
  • Arsenic
  • Asbestos
  • Barium
  • Beryllium
  • Cadmium
  • Chromium
  • Copper
  • Fluoride
  • Mercury
  • Nickel
  • Nitrates
  • Selenium
  • Sulfate
  • Thallium

What is the best water filtration system?

The best water filtration system can be considered to be a three-step water filtration system. 

What does a water filtration system do?

A water filtration system uses a combination of water filters in order to provide all-around water purification. Ideally, a system will use the three filter method which consists of a pre-filter, a secondary filter and post filter. The pre-filter is usually something which catches larger sediments as seen with an activated carbon system. Activated carbon systems adsorb (different from absorbing) larger sediments and silts but will still allow smaller particles to go through. Taste can still be improved somewhat in this stage as chlorine and water odor is removed which affect the taste. (Think the taste of swallowing swimming pool water and you’ll get the difference.) With a secondary filter, you’ll typically have a reverse osmosis system which uses pressurized water to push water through a semipermeable membrane which in turn holds onto smaller micro contaminants and impurities. Finally, the post-filter stage can be any final polish that improves water as typically seen with UV lights which kill any remaining viruses and bacteria. Technically speaking you can pick and choose what kinds of filters can be incorporated into a water filtration system yet these are what are most generally used in the market today.

Do I really need a whole house water filter?

There are many water filtration system benefits that can be had by having cleaner water. A water filtration system will be able to remove the contaminants not easily seen in water that can greatly affect your health over time through regular exposure. Within water itself, there are many heavy metals, inorganic compounds, viruses, bacteria and more that can be detrimental to your lifestyle. You’ll be protected against diseases, toxins, and bacteria which can affect you in many ways. With cleaner water, you’ll have better nutrient absorption, better childhood immune development, weight loss as well as better hair, skin, and nails. Not only that but environmentally speaking you’ll save on plastic waste by having regularly accessible clean water. For more information contact your local water filtration services.

If you’re interested in a water filtration system in Indianapolis, IN call 317-677-4918 with Grateful Plumber!

Is a Tankless Water Heater Worth It?

Tankless water heaters can save up to $100 a year on energy bills.

Do you really save money with a tankless water heater?

Overall, tankless water heaters do save you on energy expenses in the long term. Unlike traditional water heaters that store hot water, using up energy, until the hot water is ready to use, tankless water heaters heat water as it flows, which saves on energy. Tankless water heaters will save you anywhere between $70 to $100 or more per year on your energy bills. Much of the cost saving will depend, of course, on the amount of hot water used by your family.

What is more efficient tankless or tank water heater?

The amount of hot water used by a household usually determines whether a tankless or tank water heater is more efficient for the home. The more hot water a household uses, the more energy efficient the tankless system becomes.

Here are some advantages and disadvantages of tankless vs. tank water heaters

Standard tank water heaters may cost less to install, but are often less energy efficient than tankless water heaters.

Tankless water heater vs. tank

The initial installation costs of a tankless water heater can prove to be more expensive than a traditional tank unit. Gas powered tankless systems can also use up extra energy if the pilot light is left running all day because the pilot light only heats the water as it flows through the system. On the other hand, a gas-powered tank storage system needs the pilot light to keep the stored water heated, which prevents energy from being wasted.

Overall, however, tankless water heaters have the advantage over tank storage water heaters when it comes to energy efficiency. Even if you are using 41 gallons or less of hot water each day, your tankless water heaters will prove to be 24% to 34% more energy efficient than a tank water heater. The energy efficiency improves as more hot water is used, which can be a real savings for those with larger families that use a lot of hot water. Energy efficiency improves by 8% to 14% for homes using more than 86 gallons of hot water per day.

No matter what kind of water heater you choose, you need to keep it well maintained for it to run properly and efficiently. When you need water heater repair, make sure to contact the experts at Grateful Plumber.

Energy efficiency is an important aspect for savings for both residential and commercial properties. One area that helps with energy efficiency is a good residential or commercial roofing system that reflects heat from the building.

How long do tankless water heaters last?

Tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more, as compared to the 10 to 13 years a standard tank system will last.

Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?

While tankless water heaters are generally low maintenance, it’s good to give them a regular check up once a year to ensure the device is running properly, especially if you have hard water problems or the heat is set at high temperature year round. Both situations can lead to mineral buildup and scaling.  

Here are some maintenance tips for tankless water heaters:

  • Shut off the power source before beginning any work.
  • Turn off all three valves. The hot water valve is usually red, while the cold water valve is usually blue. A third valve controls the main line that carries the water to the house.
  • Remove the T-shaped purging valve to relieve pressure inside the heater.
  • Attach hosing lines that came with the heater so you can flush the system.
  • Turn the purge port valves to “open” position, usually vertical.
  • Flush the system using about 3 gallons of white vinegar.
  • After purging the system according to the manufacturer’s instruction, remove hosing and reattach valves
  • Restart the system according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and then let water run in the sink for about 1 minute to get rid of all the air.

How big of a tankless water heater do I need?

The size of the tankless water system that you choose will depend on the flow rate you need and the temperature rise for the system application. That is, are planning to heat the whole house or just a small part like a single bathroom. For each device you’re heating in the home, you’ll want determine the flow rate or gallons per minute the device will use. You’ll add all the flow rates together. You’ll determine the temperature rise by subtracting the incoming water temperature from the desired output. Usually it’s best to assume the incoming water temperature is 50 degrees. Using that temperature will prevent you from undersizing the tankless water heater.

What tankless water heater should I get

The type of tankless water heater you get will primarily depend on how much water you plan to use and how many appliances you’re hooking it up to. There are many good brands on the market that will fit perfectly to your household needs. You’ll also want a tankless water heater with a good warranty from the manufacturer. A good warranty will indicate the manufacturer believes in its product’s quality and reliability.

Tankless water heater is leaking

Although it is rare, tankless water heaters do leak. Usually leaks occur near the bottom of the system or around the connections. Leaks may also occur because the water heater is poorly vented. If you live in an area with hard water, leaks could occur because of mineral build up in the system. Regular maintenance, including flushing the system, and repairs will help prevent leaks.

Tankless water heater to fill a bath

Size matters when it comes to tankless water heaters. A tankless heater that’s too small will not heat your water properly. Bathtubs will generally need a larger water heater to make sure that when you fill the tub the water will stay hot.

No matter what kind of water heater you have, when you need water heater repair in Indianapolis, IN, you can rely on the professionals at Grateful Plumber. Give us a call at 317-677-4918 today to schedule services.

How Do I Find Out Where a Leak is Coming From?

A Close Look at a Residential Water Meter

Leak Detection and Repair

The most startling problems are the ones we can’t see. When it comes to protecting your home, quickly identifying and addressing leaks is essential. These pesky problems often hide out of sight, making them difficult to discover.

Thankfully, there are proven ways to discover even the stealthiest of plumbing leaks. Today we’ll discuss how you can uncover these hidden hazards and make your home safe again! Let’s get started.

Leak Repair in House

Let’s think like a professional. How do plumbers check for leaks? While they could pull out a fancy leak repair device and examining every square foot until they find the damage, there’s a simpler way to get started. All it takes is a simple process of elimination.

Isolating the Leak

Begin your search at the water meter. If you turn off all the water appliances in your home and the meter continues to spin, you’ve confirmed the leak. What happens when you shut off the water? Does the meter stop? If so, you’ve confirmed the leak is indeed on your side of the water line. Repeat the same process with your hot water line by the water heater to isolate the problem to the hot or cold line.

Leak Repair Costs

How Much Does it Cost for a Plumber to Fix a Leak?

Unless you discover water actively spilling onto the floor or out of the walls, you’ll probably need to contact your plumbing services to pinpoint the leak. Cost boils down to a couple key factors: required repair time, and ease of access.

Leaking pipes are the easiest and cheapest problem to fix, ranging from a meager $150 to $450 (according to HomeAdvisor). Depending on the location, you may have to pay hundreds more for drywall repairs. The most bothersome pipe bursts may cost thousands of dollars in water damage services.

Prices rapidly climb for problems with the main line and slab pipes, coming in as high as $4000. Plumbers often require specialized equipment, such as a plumbing camera, to locate the damage. You’ll want to coordinate with your insurance to ensure maximum cost coverage.

Insurance Questions

Is a Water Leak Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

To answer this question, we must separate initial damage from resulting damage. A prime example of initial damage is the gradual breakdown of a water pipe. Insurance agencies rarely cover items affected by gradual damage. However, when the pipe suddenly bursts one day and the resulting damage affects your carpet or wood flooring, there’s a good chance that the resulting damage is covered.

What type of water damage is covered by insurance? Potential coverage may include sudden or accidental discharge, backups from the sewer line, and damage caused by storm. Talk with your agent to confirm which of these is officially covered in your policy. An experienced adjuster may also provide some insurance claims help.

Times Your Home Insurance Won’t Cover Leak Repair

  • Gradual damage from pipe corrosion
  • Water damage enabled by homeowner negligence
  • Backflow produced by flooded storm drains (policy specific)
  • Leaks allowed by a cracked foundation

Leak Repair Under the House

Hopefully, you will never have to make this scary call to the slab leak repair company. However, it pays to know the signs of a slab leak. In fact, quick action could save you thousands of dollars in interior home and foundation repair costs.

How to Spot a Slab Leak

How can you tell if you have a slab leak? Look for these worrisome signs.

  • A surging water bill
  • Damp spots in the floors or near the walls
  • Mold and mildew smells around the lower areas of your home
  • Reduced water pressure in your hot or cold line
  • A constantly running water heater
  • Cracks in the floor or in the foundation of your home

Again, the easiest way to confirm a leak is through your water meter. After you’ve turned off all appliances and outside faucets, check to see if the meter is still spinning. Should the water continue to flow, call your local plumber and arrange for leak repair.

A Busted Water Line Spews Water Above a Muddy Hole

Schedule Your Professional Leak Repair!

Even a small leak, if allowed to persist, may eventually spiral out of control. If you suspect a faulty pipe or appliance is dripping water somewhere in your home, it only takes a couple of minutes to test your system and restore your peace of mind. Prompt action can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars in damages and repair bills, so why wait?

Our team at Grateful Plumber would be more than happy to assist you with both pipe and slab leak repair in Indianapolis, IN. Contact our local office at 317-677-4918 to arrange your convenient appointment and get the care your home deserves. You’ll quickly learn why countless homeowners trust us with their plumbing needs!

What is the Cheapest Way To Remodel a Bathroom?

A Picture of Bathroom Tile Being Installed

How Can You Save Money On a Bathroom Remodel?

One of the best ways to add value to our home is to improve upon areas that might be outdated. Whether you bought a home that was built in the 90s or in the 60s, you might notice that a lot of rooms are outdated, especially. After the kitchen, the bathroom is one of the rooms which gets the most use. We shower, bathe, get ready for our days, and its most likely the last room we go into besides our bedrooms. The great thing is that we can improve our bathrooms with a little remodeling. While a bathroom remodels might sound like the best option, many people ask the most important question–how much will it cost to remodel my bathroom?

According to Homeadvisor, an average price for a bathroom remodel in 2019 is going to cost $10,272. A lot of people don’t have that kind of money lying around to spend on a bathroom remodel, but they are in desperate need of remodeling their bathroom. After finding out how much bathroom remodeling is going to cost, they might ask, “How can I save money on my bathroom remodel?” There are a lot of ways that you can still remodel your bathroom and not have to pay upwards of $10,000.

  • Instead of replacing the builder made bathroom mirror, you can add a frame around it to give it a facelift.
  • Since tile is very expensive, you can focus on tiling the floor and painting the walls or using beadboard or board and batten.
  • A great way to update the look of the bathroom is upgrading the fixtures.
  • Change the toilet seat and lid to make it look like a brand new toilet.
  • Use an antique dresser to update the vanity in your bathroom.
  • Clean the grout and fix the caulking in your bathroom for a cleaner look.
  • If you want marble or granite countertops for the vanity, consider making little changes and making the countertop the focus of the bathroom.

Is a Bathroom Remodel Worth It?

When it comes to a bathroom remodel, you should never jump in head first. There are so many things to consider, like if bathroom remodeling is really worth it. While we want to add value to our homes, that doesn’t mean that how much money you put into your home is going to equal to the actual value of the home. You can remodel every area of your home but that doesn’t necessarily mean the value is going to go up. This is because when we remodel or renovate something, its usually to our specific tastes–if we end up putting our homes on the market and buyers aren’t liking what they are seeing, they might move onto another home or consider your home if you knock a few thousand dollars off the price.

Hands Expressing an Idea They Have for a Bathroom

Find Out If a Bathroom Remodel is Worth it and If You Should Hire a Professional Contractor.

This isn’t to say that a bathroom remodel isn’t worth it. Sometimes these types of things to increase the value of a home, but most of the time, bathroom remodeling is great when you are looking to stay in your home for the long run. Another thing to consider when you are thinking about remodeling is that you need to remodel based on the neighborhood you are in. If you live in an area with million dollar homes, then remodeling is going to increase the value of your home; if you live in an area where your neighbors aren’t doing much to improve their homes, then you might not want to go all out with remodeling, However, remodeling one room, like a bathroom, isn’t going to hurt you– it’s all going to depend on how much you want to spend.

Can You Remodel a Bathroom Yourself?

If you want to remodel your bathroom or add a completely new bathroom to your home, you need to decide whether or not you or a professional is going to take care of the bathroom remodel or addition. You need to consider that if you are changing the structure of the bathroom, which you usually do with remodeling, you are going to have to move around plumbing pipes, appliances, lighting, and more. If you are able to handle that type of work, then you are going to save a lot of money doing it on your own. But if you can’t, then you need to think about hiring a professional contractor to help you.

Other things that need you should mull over is, is it going to look better if I do it or if a professional does it? Will you love it or hate it if you are the one to remodel the bathroom? When you hire a contractor, they will have the necessary experience, knowledge, and contacts to get you deals as well as ensure everything is completed correctly. Things you could do to save money do your own demolition, paint the walls, and buy your own appliances and fixtures. Instead of thinking, “What is the best color for a bathroom?” or “How much does it cost to replace a tub with a shower?” an expert will be able to answer these questions and help you. You wouldn’t handle emergency roofing in Louisville, KY, so why not leave the remodeling to a professional?

How To Plan a Bathroom Remodel

A Contractor's Hand On a Tablet That is Showing a Picture of a Bathroom

Having a Bathroom Remodel Plan Will Make the Process Easier.

Coming up with a plan for your bathroom remodel can be fun and exciting, but it also might be overwhelming. The reason why is because people might not know where to start in regards to planning. In order to make your bathroom remodeling planning less stressful, we have created a plan that will make things a lot less stressful and give you a clear plan on what should happen.

  • Make a Budget: You will need to sit down with your spouse, partner, or roommate and decide how much you are willing to spend on a bathroom remodel.
  • Come Up with Ideas: Start compiling ideas on Pinterest or in a folder on what you want your bathroom to look like.
  • Bathroom Layout and Design: Once you know what your bathroom to look like, create a layout on how you want it to look.
  • Hire a Contractor: To make the remodeling less overwhelming and more smooth, hire a professional contractor that you trust.
  • Buy Your Supplies: You can buy the paint, tile, wood, appliances, and fixtures you want for your bathroom.

When To Remodel Bathroom

Because bathroom remodeling can take a long time, you need to consider when the best time will be. You might not want to remodel your bathroom during major holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving. You could potentially schedule your remodel to happen during the summer; this would be nice since the weather is great and you could go on vacation during that time. It would be a good feeling going on vacation with an old bathroom and coming back to a bathroom that is completely new. However, when you hire a contractor, they are able to tell you when they think the best time to remodel is. If you want to upgrade other things in your home like installing Tankless water heaters in Indianapolis, IN, call Grateful Plumber at 317-677-4918 for more information.

Getting Your Home Back to Normal After a Pipe Burst

A Picture of Mold Growing On a Wall Towards the Floor

It’s Important To Get Burst Pipe Repair in Order To Avoid Water Damage and Mold.

When it comes to a busted water pipe in your home, you can, unfortunately, expect to have a bit of damage to your property. The water lines in your home include water pipes that bring water into your home and water lines for your water heater; regardless of the water pipe, they can all be susceptible to bursting. There are a couple of reasons why pipes burst and that includes corrosion, the pipes freezing, the pipes moving, and high water pressure. So what happens if a pipe bursts? The most common thing that is going to happen when a pipe bursts in your home is that there will be water damage. This can be due to a pipe burst flood or even just a little bit of water, but the type of water damage will be based on how bad the pipe was damaged and where the pipe is located. Because your water pipes can be located in several areas of your home, this means that there is the possibility that various things in your home will become damaged, which include

  • Your Floors: If water from your burst pipe leaks or floods, it’s most likely going to get on your floor. There are several problems with that, the first being that is can cause structural damage to the floor. This is especially true if you have wood floors; when water is left standing long enough, it can cause the wood to start to warp. The second problem is that is can cause mold growth underneath and on the floor. Again, when water is left standing for more than 24 hours, mold can start to grown.
  • Your Walls: Your water pipes are located behind your walls, so the first thing that is going to get damaged are your walls. Not only can the water from the burst pipe cause damages to the structure of the wall, but if there are electrical wires behind the wall, there is a chance that the water and the electrical wires come into contact and start a fire. While the biggest concern would be with your interior walls, the walls on the outside of your home are also threatened by water. You should also be aware that if it penetrates far enough, it can cause problems with the drywall.
  • Your Furniture: Depending on the extent of the water that accumulates from a burst pipe, your furniture can also become damaged. Wet furniture is never good, as it is also a good place for mold to grow and spread to other areas of your home.
  • Your Electronic Components: Electronics can include computers, TVs, appliances, etc. that are plugged into your wall that come into contact with water that has burst from your water pipes.

In order to avoid a burst pipe from happening in your home, it is so important to get plumbing maintenance. Or if you are noticing that your water pressure is a little too high or it’s extremely cold outside, you call a plumber and ask them what you can do. If you call a plumbing contractor for burst pipe repair, you can expect pipe burst repair time to be around four to six hours to repair. This is because they need to know how bad the damage is and it takes a bit of time to repair water pipes.

What Do You Do If a Pipe Bursts?

A Pipe Leaking Due To it Being Frozen

There Are Steps To Take When There is a Burst Pipe in Your House.

While a water pipe burst inside house is one of the most overwhelming things that can happen to a homeowner, you have to do what you can in order to protect your home from water damage. There are a couple of things that you need to do in order to reduce water damage and flooding in your home. The first thing that you will want to do is stop the water; the way that you will do this is by locating the main water line and turning it off. The main water line shutoff is usually outside but if you live in a colder climate it can be located in your home. Once the water has been shut off, you will also need to run your sinks and flush the toilet to ensure all of the water is out of the pipes. Next, you will want to remove as much water as possible. Be sure that you wipe up areas that can have water easily hidden. When the water has been cleaned up, open up a window to dry your home out. Another thing you can do is turn on the AC to remove humidity from the air and then turn on the heater to remove moisture. After all of that is complete and a plumber has come by and fixed your broken water pipe, you can call a professional water removal company to make sure there is no water in your home or mold growth.

Is a Burst Water Pipe Covered By Insurance?

A Damaged Wall Exposing a Pipes That Have Burst

Insurance Companies Will Not Cover Burst Pipe Repair If the Incident Could’ve Been Prevented.

When a water pipe bursts, a lot of people want to know if they will get water and flood damage insurance claims assistance from their insurance company. If you have water or flood damage from a burst water pipe, your insurance coverage policy should cover the cost of the burst pipe repair that is needed for the burst pipe and any damages. However, it’s important to note that your insurance carrier can deny your claim if they think that the burst pipe could’ve been prevented. Pipes tend to burst due to water pressure, freezing pipes, moving pipes, and corrosion, so if your insurance company gets one of their adjusters to inspect your broken pipes and they determine that the damage could be prevented, you will need to cover the cost of your repairs. How much does it cost to fix a burst water pipe? It’s going to depend on if burst pipe repair is an emergency or if it’s not that serious. If burst pipe repair is needed right away, it can cost somewhere in the thousands. It’s also important to note that where the pipes are located as well as the time of year will also play a part in how expensive the repairs are.

Because your insurance company can deny you based on the claim that the pipe burst could’ve been prevented, it is so important that you always get a plumbing inspection for your pipes. This way you have evidence for your insurance company that you actually had maintenance done. Not only can it help when it comes to your insurance company, but there are other benefits of a plumbing inspection.

  • If there are any leaks coming from the pipes they can repair them before they become bigger leaks.
  • Inspections can determine the condition of your pipes and whether you need repairs or replacement.
  • Save on the cost of expensive repairs as well as on your water bills.
  • Plumbing inspections for your pipes can save you because they can determine if there is high water pressure, corrosion, or if your pipes have moved, which are the culprits of burst water pipes.

When you need burst pipe repair, it is so important that you call a licensed and insured plumbing contractor. At Grateful Plumber, we are able to provide pipe burst repair in Indianapolis, IN for homeowners who are looking for affordable burst pipe repair. Just call us at 317-677-4918 to make an appointment today!

How Important is Fall Plumbing Maintenance?

In order to get your home prepared for the Winter months, there are many tasks to complete. Your roofing, plumbing, HVAC, and even your landscape should be inspected by a professional to ensure they are in optimal condition and prepared to take on the cold temperatures of the Winter months. In fact, the cold season is the most common time for catastrophic plumbing damages such as pipe or sewer bursts. Protect your home and loved ones this Winter with a comprehensive plumbing inspection along with your other home evaluations.

Our Plumbing Inspection Services are Detailed and Accurate

Don’t Let This Happen to You. Our Experts Can Provide a Comprehensive Plumbing Inspection.

What do I Need to Do?

According to the experts at 1st Plumber to Call, Fall plumbing maintenance is the best protection against burst pipes, slow water draining, and low water pressure. These problems are typically caused by frozen water, either inside your pipes or in your pipe vents. As the frozen water expands, it caused rip tears in your pipe system that can cause detrimental effects. In order to keep your home safe, a professional should check each of these areas:

  • Clean and Inspect Pipes: Your plumber will clean your your indoor and outdoor pipes to prevent clogs that can lead to bursts. He will also inspect your pipe system for possible weaknesses and damages.
  • Outdoor Faucets: Your plumbing expert will evaluate your outdoor faucets to identify any damages or possible leaks.
  • Sprinkler Lines: While not often considered, these lines can cause just as much damage as a water line if they burst at the right time. Your plumber will ensure that your lines are intact and securely connected.

Your Local Experts

When you need Fall plumbing maintenance in Indianapolis, IN, our experts have got your covered. We provide comprehensive indoor and outdoor inspections to ensure that your plumbing is ready to take on the cold Winter months. Call us today at 317-677-4918 to schedule your Fall plumbing maintenance appointment today.

Fall Home Maintenance

Fall is quickly approaching, and with it, threats of harsh, cold weather, heavy winds, and additional precipitation. It’s crucial to ensure that your home is in optimal condition before Fall is in full swing to protect against the effects of cold weather. Although many homeowners complete the basics of Fall home maintenance such as roof material checks and heater inspections, they often forget about the importance of plumbing maintenance. As the weather gets colder, your plumbing is more susceptible to dangers like cracked pipes, leaky outdoor faucets, and low water flow. Combat these problems with reliable drain cleaning and repair services before the cold strikes.

Drain Cleaning is Imperative for Proper Fall Maintenance.

Clean Drains Help Water Flow Better, Even When the Rooftop Vent is Clogged by Snow and Ice.

How Are my Drains Affected by Cold?

During cold weather, your home’s plumbing is at risk. Pipes of all kinds are capable of freezing and should be protected until temperatures are above freezing. Drains can also have trouble when vents on the home are clogged by snow or ice. However, keeping your drains clean and efficient can help combat the problem and keep your drains flowing quickly. Water, snow, and ice buildup on the roof can also lead to clogged roof vents. Your roof material, gutters, and soffit and fascia should be inspected before Fall to ensure that water can properly drain from your roof. Other important points to check include:

  • Siding
  • A/C Compressor
  • Window and Door Seals
  • Rooftop Intake Vents
  • Heating Ducts

Keeping your home as efficient as possible can not only keep your family protected throughout the Winter but can also save on energy bills and wear and tear.

Expert Plumbing Inspection and Repair in Indianapolis, IN

When you need a comprehensive plumbing inspection to ensure the durability of your home throughout the Winter, call the Grateful Plumber team first. Our experienced technicians provide knowledgeable, friendly service that keeps your plumbing in excellent condition. Call us today at 317-677-4918 to schedule your Fall home maintenance drain cleaning and repair in the Indianapolis, IN area.