PLUMBING: COMMERCIAL VS. RESIDENTIAL

Plumbing is more complicated than most people may believe. You might encounter problems with it no matter what building you occupy. Apparently, residential and commercial plumbing share similar characteristics. However, upon closer inspection, there are just as many minor factors that significantly impact the workplace.

What Makes It Residential or Commercial Plumbing?

Residential Plumber: A residential plumber installs, fixes, fits, and maintains pipes in a residential building’s drainage system. They also work on fittings for water cooling, heating, distribution, and sanitation. Their tasks are to interpret blueprints and construction standards to design a plan, record difficulties, and evaluate drainage systems.

Imagine a single day in the life of a residential plumber who goes from house to house. They concentrate on the correct operation of a single-family home. They can unclog a clogged drain in the kitchen and understand how to fix a damaged pipe or install a water-saving toilet in the family bathroom. 

Commercial Plumber: Complex faucet and pipe installation and repair are part of commercial plumbing. It includes the construction and management of substantial waste disposal and water supply systems. It also applies to a wide range of enterprises and major housing complexes. If you’re seeking a commercial plumber, especially in a big city, be sure they’re not residential plumbers.

A commercial plumber deals with a variety of issues daily. In a multi-story office building, they would have to cope with a flooded restroom. They could build the plumbing system in a new apartment complex and be familiar with various local ordinances and regulations. Dozens may utilize commercial plumbing for hundreds of people, so it will have to manage more significant water pressures and different permits and installation processes that may not be necessary for a typical residential home.

The Distinct Differences

The Difference in Work Complexity

Commercial buildings may contain many stories, numerous sinks, and various toilets and urinals, while residential structures are ordinarily basic and easy to navigate. It requires commercial plumbers’ knowledge of a more complicated building structure. 

Daily Utilization of the Plumbing System

Daily plumbing usage in the commercial sector is higher than in the residential sector. It is due to the increased use of more clients and staff. Meanwhile, in a residential setting, only the house occupants get to use the system with fewer pipe fittings and outlets. Thus, the commercial space needs more maintenance because of the higher rate of use compared to residential.

The Plumbing System’s Efficiency

Damages can occur at any time since no system is flawless. A blocked bathroom in a commercial building may cause many problems for many people; therefore, it needs a solution right away. It’s best to choose a commercial plumber with experience because even minor damage can cause problems across the piping system’s foundation.

Durability and Size of the System

Commercial plumbing utilizes large fittings with more extended durability and high grading due to increased demand, resulting in fewer breakdown incidents due to stress and pressure. Plumbing systems for residential systems are small and utilize low-grade pipe fittings because of their low use rate.


Health Issues

As more people visit commercial establishments, particularly restaurants, there is a greater need to adhere to rigorous healthcare regulations and guarantee that your plumbing system is clean. Because there are fewer and more controlled residents, homes are easier to manage. As a result, commercial plumbing requires a variety of plumbing fittings that are simple to clean and drain rapidly.

The Possibility of Damage

Commercial plumbing systems are more vulnerable to damage than residential ones, which are less intricate. Residential plumbing damage is limited to the modest size of the system. However, commercial plumbing damage may be disastrous, primarily if your business space extends across numerous levels.

Most buildings can access their critical utility areas by installing heavy-duty general access doors, but unfortunately, not all facilities have it. A plumber should know what to do if such an instance happens and learn how to address the issue before it becomes more significant.

The Scope of Work

Commercial plumbing projects are more repetitive than residential plumbing, requiring various applications on different pipe sections. They can do it on huge facilities with equipment designed for larger applications. Residential plumbing is a typical eight-hour job, except in emergencies, but commercial plumbing may occur any day. Commercial plumbing maintenance may need to be done on weekends or holidays when staff isn’t at work.

The Difference in Water Heaters

Large storage tanks and higher gas input levels are necessary for commercial heaters, as commercial buildings have more occupants than residential residences. Commercial heater tanks are massive, holding up to 250 gallons, but residential heater tanks are often little more than 100 gallons.

Job Knowledge Prerequisites

Commercial plumbing is far more schedule-oriented. For example, repairing an original structure needs completion on time since more people rely on it, and interruptions can result in losses.  

Instances of Leakage

Because people utilize the bulk of their house plumbing daily and may notice minor leaks, diagnosing small leaks and running water in a house is more straightforward than in a commercial space. Leaks are more readily spotted in commercial buildings, especially those with numerous stories, resulting in significant leaking, water waste, and high costs.  

Drainage Services

When opposed to commercial plumbing, draining residential plumbing is comparatively simple. For example, snake drain lines in many storage facilities are complicated and time-consuming. A plumber must trace their way from each unit and certify that any obstructions are gone and cleaned down to the main sewage line.

Although there is a distinction between residential and commercial plumbing, it is advisable to find a plumber who has seen and done it all with residential and commercial plumbing problems. A skilled plumber can adapt to the circumstances and provide unrivaled plumbing services.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

BEST WAYS TO ADD A PLUMBING ACCESS DOOR AND PANEL

A plumbing access panel is an access panel that has a removable door and frame whose primary function is to cover plumbing pipes, the main shut-off valve behind the ceiling, and wall surfaces making it very quick and easy to use. These essential components are present in both exterior and interior parts of the building structure. 

Protecting every plumbing component is essential to ensure no issues or damage happen to the pipes. Usually, a plumbing access panel has an easy-to-remove and place plywood door cover. However, with more innovations in today’s technology, different access panels are available in the market today, such as plumbing access panels.

Rustic or Vintage Access Panel Appearance

For a traditional way of hiding plumbing components, wooden plumbing access panels are the ideal type of installation. However, it does not offer the same strength as the metal or plastic plumbing access panel. It is perfect if the property owner wants a rustic or vintage style. The installation of this wooden access panel is mainly at the initial stage of the building construction. 

Prevent Unauthorized Opening

Preventing unauthorized entry to plumbing components is essential in every building. Thus, a sturdier access panel to cover them is a good option. A metal access panel provides a medium security level to prevent unauthorized personnel from opening the plumbing system, including the main supply valves. It is also a fire-resistant access panel that seamlessly blends through walls and ceilings. 

Ceilings

For ceiling plumbing access, installing a plumbing access hatch that closely resembles a trap door provides efficient protection from exterior elements. It also works efficiently well for plumbing. Some plumbing access hatch variations have a lock and latch for security purposes, and this feature is essential when securing the hatch from being opened illegally.

Basements and Attics 

If the building has a plumbing system in specific areas like the basement and attics, drywall access panels are perfect for this match. Sometimes the ceiling and walls have a drywall compound so incorporating metal or plastic access panels for the plumbing system is the best choice for this type of location. They are easy to install and offer safety to the building. They are also perfect for hiding water valves and cables, and wires. 

Bathrooms

In most cases, bathrooms incorporate plumbing access doors to ensure quick and easy access to the plumbing system during maintenance, inspection, and repairs. For instance, no one predicts when the tub or sink gets broken, so preparing for this kind of issue is best. Property owners can do that by incorporating plumbing access doors in the bathrooms. 

Plumbing Components

Many plumbing access panels are usually wood or steel. However, plastic access panels are convenient and efficient because of their lightweight materials. They are pretty expensive than steel or wood as they use high-quality materials and are resistant to rust and fade.

Versatility 

Access panels are ideal in several areas, such as plumbing, security systems, ceilings, and walls for versatility. There’s no need to have extensive experience to install these as it has a simple construction and design for easy installation in walls and ceilings. 

Add Plumbing Access Without Sacrificing The Aesthetics of Ceilings and Walls

Another way to hide building components like plumbing, mechanical and electrical components is by incorporating a louvered access panel. Aside from providing quick and easy access during the inspection, maintenance, and repairs, this access panel is one of the most versatile. It seamlessly blends with ceilings and walls without sacrificing its aesthetic looks. 

Access panels are essential in every building structure as they provide security, safety, easy access for every building component, and additional space for storage. Some other places require the installation following building codes. There are many access panels available in the market today; however, picking the best and most reliable one is a must. 

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

HOLIDAY MANTLE INSPIRATION

Looking to jump right into Christmas decorating now that Halloween is over? Don’t worry, we won’t judge you, we love Christmas. Many people have mantles available to decorate, and nothing screams Christmas more than a fully decorated mantle in the Christmas spirit. There are so many ways to decorate, from stockings, wreaths, signs, garland, pillows, the possibilities are endless. We love looking at other people’s decorated mantles, and maybe you can get inspired from them!

Starting off with a farmhouse vibe mantle, farmhouse is so in style right now. A lot of people love the grey and white or black and white aesthetic, and this captured it perfect! Cozy little pillows, small Christmas tree’s and stockings hung on the fireplace! This definitely gives off cozy vibes.

Look at the clean, sleek look of this simple mantle. It is filled with Christmas colors of course, but it’s not too overwhelming on the eyes. A little bit of garland and a cute Christmas sign can go a long way!

Another garland look, look at those oversized galvanized bells! This reminds me of the Polar Express. We love how the plaid bows are worked into the green of the garland, and to top it off added oversized bells. This look is simple yet super adorable and very affordable.

What better way to decorate than adding buffalo plaid into your mantle? So cute, simple, yet gives off all of the Christmas vibes!

How aesthetically pleasing is this mantle!? Adding patterns into the mantle is a cute way to decorate. If you have the space on the ground, decorate that too! Add some signs, a lantern, and maybe a Christmas quote and you’re good to go!

Looking to go all out? Get lots of colors! We know the traditional Christmas colors are red and green, but don’t be afraid to branch out! Adding pops of white into the mantle and decorations will definitely give it a much needed pop of color!

Another Farmhouse Aesthetic, but with a twist! Spice up your mantle by adding Christmas decorations on it, but make it pop even more by adding them AROUND it! It will give your mantle the much needed pop and gives you an opportunity to decorate light on the mantle and go all out around it!

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

CRM KITCHEN REMODELING: THE BEST CRM SOFTWARE FOR KITCHEN 2021

Customer Relation Management tools are being used in almost every industry today. Even the firms that were not using it, started using it in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Why? because it made remote working conditions and collaborations much more efficient and productive.

While CRM software is mostly used by various corporations, whether they are in the energy sector, development, FMCG, or real estate. Similarly, CRM software can be used for kitchen remodeling purposes as well.

Since CRM is now being designed keeping several niches in mind, for example, you have separate software for real estate CRMwhich focuses on developing leadership and can probably sync with sites like Zillow, etc. On the other hand, we now also have CRM software that focuses on specifically kitchen remodeling.

So if you are into the construction business or specifically into kitchen remodeling, here is a list of the best CRM software that you can use for kitchen remodeling in 2021.

1.   SERVICEMONSTER

This software is built specifically for the field and servicing industry. A lot of carpet cleaning businesses and other businesses like it use the software to manage their customers and businesses. And it has become popular in the servicing industry because it has proven to be profitable and extremely productive.

Let us look at some of the features that it has to offer:

·       Billing and Invoicing customers are easier with all the stored information

·       Clients management, which is the core of this software’s perks

·       Scheduling and reminders for meetings

·       E-signatures are a blessing in disguise

·       Work-order and inventory management

·       The tracking service history is extremely convenient.

So go ahead, this software is going to make it easier to complete your kitchen remodeling task easier.

2.    JOB PROGRESS

This software is known for residential contractors and tradesmen. Why? Because its tools and services cater to that particular niche. This software also enables smooth teamwork and a smooth workflow as well.

Let us look at some of the main features this software has to offer:

·       Contract management tools help with rules and services offered to a particular client.

·       Enable tracking clients

·       It is a great project management software will all tools that enable it to track development and keep updating the project.

So while this software offers a few more features than the software mentioned above, if your business needs you can use this software for your kitchen modeling projects.

3.    ACCULYNX

This one is specifically built for roofing companies, be it residential or commercial. It offers different features and tools that can help you with your business;

·       The unique feature of aerial measurement is offered by this software, which is pretty rare

·       It offers checklists, inspections, invoicing, billing, etc

·       It also offers lead management and dispatch management tools

·       Scheduling and work-order management is very user-friendly.

4.    JOBBER

This one is also catered towards the home management business, which is why it could be beneficial for you to take a look at its features and see if it works for you.

·       It provides you with a contact database and contract management tools

·       Dispatching and electronic signature is also unique about this software

·       It helps you with Quotes and Estimates

·       Scheduling and reminders about meetings etc

·       It also helps you record payment management in the field

·       It offers an online time clock that helps with meeting deadlines for a job or a task

 

5.    MARKET SHARE

Marketshare is building specifically for home improvement businesses, contractors, remodelers, etc. Here are a few highlight features of this software that you can benefit from

·       Project Management

·       Contract Management

·       Lead and Pipeline segmentation and management

·       Various prospecting tools 

·       Clients and source tracking

The software is also cheaper comparatively and offers essential features that can benefit you to the core of your kitchen remodeling business.

6.    IMPROVE IT 360

This software is built for remodeling businesses, be it small scale, medium, or large. This software is popular as it helps companies build homes, kitchens, etc and earn good profits. Let us look at a few features of this software

·       It offers management of all sorts, be it employee management,  financial, inventory or marketing management.

·       The unique feature that this software offers is training and vendor management as well.

·       Purchasing records

·       It also helps with time and expense tracking which can only improve productivity.

 

7.    LEADPERFECTION

This CRM tool is for remodeling businesses, contractors, and home improvement companies. It is a purpose-built CRM that is focused on home construction, which is why it made to our list of CRM software we recommend for kitchen remodeling.

Let us look at  a few features of this software:

·       It offers call center automation, which we can all swear by is a very efficient customer management tool

·       It also offers to canvass programs that help you with the designs etc.

·       The best thing about this software is that it can be synced with Quickbooks and many other software.

·       You can also create various reports through this software that can help you build strategies and all.

8.    JOB NIMBUS

This is our last but not the least favorite recommendation to you if you are looking for remodeling kitchens. This software is specifically built for roofers and remodeling companies. The following are only a few unique features of this application:

·       It helps with building quotes and proposals that you can forward to your clients.

·       It helps with forecasting

·       Offers sales and pipeline managements

·       It also offers contract and client management which ensures productivity among employees.

REMODEL YOUR KITCHEN USING CRM

If you are using the best software for your business, you are only ensuring productivity, huge profits, and a good clientele base. This is 2021 and you can find anything you need, even get customized software features that are important and relevant to your business.

So choose from one of the software’s mentioned above and you will see a productive rise in your business.

 Author Bio:
Dur-e-Sabih provides ghostwriting and copywriting services. Her educational background in Accountancy helps her in tackling topics ranging from career and business productivity to web development, finance, and digital marketing. She writes blog articles for Real Estate CRM.

5 MOST COMMON WATER HEATER REPAIR ASPECTS AND SOLUTION

Most people store their water heater out of their sight, and keep using it without checking

regularly if there is any problem. If any glitch occurs then only they think about repairing it.

However, it seems that a lot of people don’t know that, like other mechanical systems, it is

also needed to check water heaters regularly, and then repair accordingly if there is any glitch to help in making it serve for the possible longest time. On a side note, if you are aware of

any kind of need to repair your water heater by now, then you must be thinking of investing in a water heater. So, if you are already looking for repair your water heater , we recommend you to check out the best water heater repair in San Diego.

Here, in this article, we have discussed some of the most common water heater issues you’re most likely to face, and there are some ways to solve these problems.

1. HAVING NOT ENOUGH HOT WATER :

There are a lot of problems that can be caused due to not having enough hot water such as : There should be some problems with the size of your tank, that is why your water heater is not able to provide enough hot water. To solve this problem you can easily change your

current water heater, and bring a larger one which can fulfill your demand with its sufficient amount of size.

The problem of having too little hot water can also be solved, you just need to manage the temperature on the tank’s thermostat. But keep in mind, while adjusting the temperature, be careful that you do not increase the temperature too high, as this can cause an accident.

Furthermore, if you have a tankless water heater, there could be a problem that your water heater might not be powerful enough. There is a chance that you might add more than the required number of fixtures to the unit’s power. You should always check the number of

fixtures that your unit is capable of running and adjust them accordingly.

So this type of problem may cause you to replace your water heater with a more effective one. Although, it is advised to talk to a local water heater repair for identifying the system and its ongoing problems before changing your water heater tank or buying a new one.

There is another problem that you might face is that your water heater is not producing any hot water, which is mostly dependent on what type of water heater you are using. First you need to figure out the issue, if it is a gas-powered water heater, and you are getting cold water even after switching on the hot water faucet, there is a high chance that a pilot light might have blown out. There is another chance that your thermocouple might have errors, and it

also needs to be replaced. Also, for an electrical water heater, the issue could be that your water heater has a wrong heating element that also needs to be replaced.

Again, it would be better to consult a repair professional to get this job done because replacing the thermocouple or the heating element is a risky task to do on your own.

 

2. NOISE AND LEAKAGE IN WATER TANK  

There are few things that could cause terrible noises from your water tank. The most common causes of this terrible banging sounds are some scales might have built up on the heating

elements inside the water tank. To solve this problem, you need to clean the tank monthly to get rid of scales. If you still face the noise problem even after cleaning the tank, you need to contact a water heater repair professional to fix the issue. This can also result in leakages.

Although, leaks are the problems that are caused from loose connections. To solve this problem, you need to tighten them. But if the leak is caused by your tank, that means again your tank needs to be replaced. Leakages can cause a huge problem, so do not ignore if such problems occur.

Therefore, to solve the problem of leakage always contact the best water heater repair in San Diego.

 

3.THE PROBLEM OF SMELLY WATER

If you’re facing the issue of having smelly water, then most probably, it’s because bacteria is present in your water tank. You can easily solve this problem by yourself just by cleaning the tank, and pouring a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. After that, let the solution stay in the tank for about more than two hours, and then clean the tank out with new water.

Even after cleaning your water tank you still face the same issue, then you need to reach out to your local repair professional to get help.

 

4.DIRTY WATER

If you find that water from your tank has a dirty, dark color, there is a chance that your water tank has some corrosion inside. You can simply replace the tank to get rid of this problem.

Also, a failing anode rod can also be the reason for this issue.

So, you need to flush the water tank to replace the anode rod to check if the problem will get solved, before heading to buy another tank. If the problem still occurs, then again contact your water heater repair professional.

 

5.    WATER TAKING TOO LONG TO REHEAT

THERE IS A HIGH CHANCE THAT THE HEATING ELEMENT IS FAULTY, AND THE THERMOSTAT, OR OTHER ELEMENTS IS DEFECTIVE, IF YOUR WATER TANK TAKES TOO MUCH TIME TO REHEAT. YOU NEED TO REGULARLY CHECK THESE ELEMENTS TO SEE IF THERE IS ANY ISSUE. IF SO, CONTACT YOUR WATER HEATER REPAIR PROFESSIONAL, AND DO THE NEEDFUL.

So, as you can see whatever your water heater issue is, it’s vital to identify and fix the error as soon as possible. But most of these issues should be handled by a professional, whether it is a leakage, or a heat issue. You are always free to contact us for the Best Water Heater Repair in San Diego.

 

Author Bio :- Angela Louise

Angela is a marketing manager at EZ Plumbing USA. She has a great interest in educating readers about various leakages that can happen in their home or offices through her articles. With extensive knowledge of water leak and slab leak detection techniques as well as HVAC systems, Angela wants to make readers aware about the warning signs indicating leakage and predictive AC and Heater maintenance and also how to fix them to refrain from dangerous and costly consequences. 

Read articles to get more valuable information about detection and damages of water and slab leak repair, techniques to fix clogging, and installation and maintenance of AC & Appliance in San Diego.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EZPlumbingUSA/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EZPlumbingUSA1

THE 4 MOST COMMON TANKLESS WATER HEATER ISSUES AND HOW TO REPAIR THEM?

An increasing number of homeowners are beginning to replace their old water heaters with water-free water heaters to avoid further disruption to repairing water tanks. Common problems with traditional tank water heaters include leaky temperatures and pressure relief valves and soil structure. Although a water-heater without a tank requires minor repairs, this type of heater may be easy on a variety of problems. The best tankless water heater repair Los Angeles services are available to repair your broken water heater. Here we have discussed 4 common tankless water heater issues and how to fix them. 

Blocked Exhaust

Depending on the type of water heater you have, you can use electricity, propane, or natural gas to create warm water. Natural gas or propane water heaters are connected to the drainage pipes leading out of your home. Pipes are designed to release toxic gases used during combustion.

 To prevent harmful gas leaks, a waterless water heater is designed to deliver the error code when the exhaust pipe closes. Since gas pipelines are connected outside your home, items such as a bird’s nest, rodents, chopsticks, or litter can form blockages that interfere with the flow of natural gas.

Do a plumbing test outside your home to make sure you see a nest or mice in the exhaust system. If your water heater without a tank shows an error code, the source of the problem may be a crack or a hole in the gas pipeline. In addition, do a check to make sure the pipe connection is secure. A loose exhaust pipe can cause gas leaks in your home. 

Accumulation of Minerals

Whether you use a regular or non-tank water heater, you need to keep an eye out for the accumulation of minerals inside your water heater. Solid water is high in mineral water, and the harder your water becomes, the more likely it is to damage minerals. Calcium and Magnesium are two minerals that often cause scaly buildup, and this can damage the function of your water heater if you do not understand it. 

If you own a water-free water heater or are moving from a conventional to a water-free tank heater, it is also important to check the water filter on your water heater, especially if you have a water source. Tank water heaters do not need to be cleaned often, if feasible, but non-tank water warmers require more care so one can have a protracted lifestyle.

 Fountain water can cause rapid accumulation of debris in your tankless water heater making it difficult for water to travel in a long, narrow way to the heat exchanger. If you do not regularly inspect your water filter, waste can get stuck in this long path if your water filter is stopped. 

To avoid damage, operate your water heater every six months with the Eccotemp EZ-Flush system Descaler cleansing kit. You may also use a water softener to gradual the accumulation. If you do not have a hook up to smooth your water heater you want a valve bypass package to help with the cleaning method.

Failure Of Ignition

Non-tank water heaters are fitted with a heating system in a hot spot designed to ignite propane or natural gas. The benefits of buying a water heater with a water heater include fewer emissions and better fuel efficiency. This type of sewing system is composed of small electrical components made of silicon. If your tankless water heater does not heat water in your home, this is a sign of electrical damage to the ignition system.

When a non-tank water heater is activated, parts of the heating system in the tropical area are heated. Next, the incoming natural gas will be ignited by a hot spot lamp before we reach the gas burners. If you do not find hot water in your area or shower, this is a sign of a broken part in the ignition system. On the other hand, the low availability of hot water can be caused by a water valve or a gas leak. Professional services for tankless water heater repair orange county will give you complete services to repair your water heater. 

 If your gas valve closes slightly, the hot fuel will not get enough natural gas to produce warm water. The quickest way to fix this problem is to turn on the gas and water valves to ensure that the water-free water heater gets the right amount of water and natural gas. 

 Cold Water Gap

A common problem with temporary water heaters is that they do not have temporary cold water heaters. If you come across cold water a few seconds after taking a warm shower, you may be curious as to why your water heater is not producing hot water. This trouble is resulting from the area of your tankless water heater. If your water heater is installed in a place away from the bathroom, it will take a few seconds or minutes for the warm water to reach your shower.

If you take a shower directly after a family member, you will get warm water first. However, you will encounter cold water for a few seconds before the water returns to a warmer temperature. When a family member leaves the shower prematurely, a little warm water is trapped in the pipes behind your walls. Once you start bathing, get warm water left in the pipes.

On the other hand, it takes a few seconds for fresh hot water to be produced by a water-free water heater. That’s why you experienced a short period of cold water at the beginning of your shower. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to fix this problem with your water-free water heater. The easiest way to prevent a cold shower is to wait one minute after turning on the water tap to start your bath. This will allow cold water to drain from the water pipes before you take a shower.

Conclusion

Tankless water heaters are efficient and easy to maintain but still can have issues that you need to take care of. You can always call a tankless water heater technician who will help you to fix or repair your water heater. Professional water heater companies provide various services for your water heater. 

Author Bio:- Jacqueline Lewis

Jacqueline is a content marketing manager who formerly worked at Cali’s Choice Plumbing & Restoration. She is a writer, editor, and content strategist for plumbing services. Making her knowledge and skills a power, she amplifies the readers’ knowledge about the ways of water leak and slab leak detection and their reciprocation. 

Through her articles, she shares the most successful tactics and strategies of slab leak repair, mitigating blockages through Hydro Jetting, and AC & heater installation tips to the audience.

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/CalisChoicePlumbingRestoration

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CalisChoice

SMALL BATHROOM INTERIORS WE LOVE

Have a small space to work with in your bathroom but still want to decorate? We rounded up the best interior designs for small bathrooms that are easily achievable! We know how hard it is to create a warm and inviting place with small places, but we have all the ideas on how to make the most out of your bathrooms!

PLUMBING FIXES TO HAVE DONE BEFORE SELLING YOUR HOUSE

Home selling is a big project, even if you keep your home in good shape. Not only do you have to find an agent to help you stage and list your home, but you also have to renovate it so that it is as profitable as possible. Among many renovations, plumbing fixes tend to be those people dread the most and sometimes avoid altogether. To help you tackle your home selling with due care, we’ll list all the plumbing fixes to have done before selling your house.

Why is it important to repair your plumbing before selling your home?

When you see how complex and costly plumbing repairs can be, you might consider avoiding them altogether. After all, if you plan to move to another city, why should you go through the trouble of repairing your plumbing? Among hiring movers for your long-distance relocation in Illinois and preparing your items, you probably have enough on your plate. Well, as it turns out, top-notch plumbing is a necessity for a successful home sale.

No matter how beautiful it looks, there are likely some plumbing fixes to have done before selling your house.

Most home buyers will hire a professional to perform a thorough home inspection before even considering a purchase. During that inspection, your plumbing issues will pop up. And the buyer will either forgo the purchase or expect you to cover the cost of fixing the plumbing. Now, there is a minority of buyers that won’t perform a home inspection. But keep in mind that they expect you to lower the price because they aren’t requesting one. To make your deal satisfactory for the buyer, you will likely have to reduce the cost more than it would cost you to repair your plumbing. So, all things considered, fixing your plumbing issues is a must for a decent home sale.

List of plumbing fixes to have done before selling your house

In the following paragraphs, we will list the most common plumbing fixes to have done before selling your house. Keep in mind that your home may require different, less common repairs. So, do the smart thing and have a professional check out your home, even if you think you know the potential issues.

Pipe leaks

Leaky pipes are arguably one of the most dangerous issues you can have with your plumbing. The reason for this is that they can easily go undetected for a long period of time. You may not even hear any dripping or see any visible issues for months while your pipe keeps leaking water. The water that leaks out can cause considerable damage over time, especially if it is near a wooden surface. Even if it isn’t, the increased moisture can easily attract pests. So, do the smart thing and carefully check your piping for leaks.

Dripping faucets

At first glance, a dripping faucet might not seem like a big deal. You lose a bit of water every now and again. And if you can suffer the noise it makes, there isn’t much reason to fix it, right? Well, if you take the time to measure just how much water a dripping faucet wastes, you will soon see that repairing it is well worth your money. Furthermore, a dripping faucet can be a symptom of a more severe issue with your faucet cartridge or the washer. Luckily, fixing these issues is relatively straightforward. So, you might not even have to hire a plumber.

You should always address a dripping faucet.

Clogged or slow drains

Keeping drains functioning properly is easier said than done. Both shower drains, kitchen sinks, and toilets get clogged or have reduced flow simply due to their use. Hair, oily products, soap particles, etc. – these can easily clog up your shower drain and prevent water from running freely. The best prevention is to put a drain guard or a drain trap. But, even those cannot save you from occasional clogs.

 

By a similar token, kitchens sinks are pretty prone to get clogged. Food remnants can easily clog up a well functioning sick and prevent water from running. Again, drain guards and traps do help, especially if they are of better quality. But, no guard or trap is 100% efficient. Fatty, grainy food remnants will easily go through and contribute to your drains getting stuck. So, what can you do?

 

The easiest solution is to have a plunger, vinegar, and baking soda at hand. A plunger will mechanically help your drain breathe and help push the issue through. Meanwhile, vinegar and baking soda will dissolve the problematic particles and help loosen up the tricky part. You can also use chemicals tailor-made for unclogging drains and pipes. Just make sure to carefully follow their instructions.

You can likely fix a clogged drain on your own. If not, call a professional.

Low water pressure

Low water pressure is often a symptom of a more serious issue. It can be a symptom of leaking pipes or corroded installments. Or it can be due to a buildup of sediment on aerators. If there is an issue, aerator, there is a relatively straightforward fix. Simply soak the aerator in a vinegar solution. Also, soak the showerhead. If that doesn’t fix the problem, you might have to replace the parts.

Final thoughts

When it comes to plumbing fixes to have done before selling your house, it is vital to understand their importance. We suggest that you start tackling plumbing issues as soon as possible, as finding reliable plumbers might not be easy. While moving companies have websites like Verified Movers, plumbers tend to have a smaller online presence. So, don’t put yourself in the difficult spot of having to look for a plumber on short notice. Instead, study your plumbing carefully and see what issues you can fix. For all the rest, hire a professional.

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

5 TYPES OF WINTER DAMAGE AND HOW YOU CAN PREVENT IT

If you own a home in a seasonal area — whether it’s new or just new-to-you — you might be getting ready for the colder weather sometime soon. You love your home, and it’s important to prepare and protect it as best you can from damage of all kinds. The winter season can be beautiful and cozy, but it also has the potential to bring some damage to your home.

If you want to keep on the lookout and stay prepared for whatever’s to come, here are some of the things you can look out for when the weather starts to turn.

1.   STRUCTURAL DAMAGE

One of the primary concerns with any kind of damage to your home is that it can impact the foundation or the structure of your home. Things like water damage, ice, and unforeseen weather circumstances can cause structural ruptures and damage to the foundation.

 Some of the best ways to prevent this are keeping on top of your landscaping, extending downspouts away from your house, and grading your yard so that the soil slopes away from your home.

2.   ICE STRAIN ON THE ROOF

If you live in an area that routinely experiences snow and ice, one of the primary issues you may have to worry about in the wintertime is the strain of ice and snow on the roof. Between condensation and freezing temperatures, ice dams can lead to roof leaks and strong winds can loosen shingles.

In order to prevent this, it’s important to have your roof checked regularly to make sure it’s waterproof. If you notice a problem at any point, try to take care of it as soon as possible so that it doesn’t develop any further.

3.   LEAKS

Your roof is not the only thing that can lead to leaking in your home throughout the wintertime. Yes, leaks in the roof are an issue, but it’s also important to remember that cold can crack the caulk used around windows, melting snow can leak into the basement, and other kinds of damage can ensue as a result of cold weather. Make sure, before winter starts, that you address any gaps in insulation before they become a problem.

4.   BROKEN PIPES

Another common issue that the winter can bring is damage to the pipes and water systems in your house. Especially if the temperatures get below freezing, pipes can burst and cause all kinds of plumbing problems.

One of the best fixes for this is insulating exposed pipes using heat tape or foam pipe insulation. Also, make sure you keep the heat circulating and put your faucet on a slow drip in order to keep water flowing so that the pipes don’t stagnate.

5.   CONDENSATION AND WATER DAMAGE

Since there are so many water-related issues that can ensue from winter, this one might not come as a surprise to you. One of the most common forms of water damage in homes is condensation throughout the walls. This can come as a result of moisture spreading where it doesn’t belong.

Make sure that if this does become an issue, you isolate the source of the moisture to avoid mold and other forms of damage.

WINTER DAMAGE AND AVOIDING IT

Winter damage can be a difficult thing to deal with, but you can stay prepared for all of the forms it comes in so you can take care of your home to the best of your ability. Is your home winter-ready this year?

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

WHAT UPGRADES INCREASE HOME VALUES MOST IN TINLEY PARK?

Across Tinley Park’s 14 neighborhoods, there are currently approximately 226 homes for sale, with prices ranging from $60,000 to just under $1 million.

According to recent figures, the current median list price of a residential property in Tinley Park is $250,000, up 6.4% from the same time last year.

Tinley Park is currently a strong sellers’ market, with the average properties receiving multiple offers and selling for around 1% over the list price and going pending in approximately one week. Some homes in high demand are even achieving 5% above the asking price.

These market conditions are fairly typical across the country at the moment, as the supply of new property listings is keeping demand higher than the inventory available to meet it. As we exit the severity of the pandemic, however, markets are predicted to gradually regain balance as more properties are listed. 

Even though the sellers’ market conditions are persisting for now, it still makes economic sense to consider whether there are any improvements that you can make that will increase the value of your home prior to selling.

Here are some of the most popular upgrade ideas that could increase the value of your Tinley Park property.

1. FINISH YOUR BASEMENT

Nothing adds to the value of a home like additional liveable, heated square footage. If you have a basement that isn’t finished, you should seriously consider getting it done prior to selling. Adding a functional room to your home can catapult it into an entirely new price bracket. So long as you stick to a sensible renovation budget, finishing your basement is one of the surest ways to ensure a healthy return on your investment.

Finishing off a basement can be costly, especially if you plan to include additional electrical and plumbing requirements. However, if you effectively gain an additional room and potentially a bathroom, too, this will further bolster the potential for returns.

You can easily research online what houses your current size are selling for and then compare it with what an additional room etc. could achieve. Alternatively, consult with your real estate professional regarding what additional value your proposed renovation could add.

2. RENOVATING YOUR KITCHEN OR BATHROOM

Kitchens and bathrooms are the most popular areas of a property that buyers focus on, and the primary question in their minds is whether they will need to renovate the space themselves or not.

If your kitchen and/or bathroom are generally sound in structure and functionality, you may only need to update them. This could involve replacing units, fixtures, countertops, flooring, or appliances, or simply refreshing tired paint, tiling, or hardware, such as handles and tapware, etc.

If a kitchen or bathroom is beyond repair and desperately needs a renovation, it’s likely that you will be able to recoup the costs and add value to your home by carrying out the work prior to selling. So long as you are sensible with your spending, and renovate to a level in keeping with the demographic of your prospective buyers, there is certainly room to add value to your home by fully renovating these spaces. It will also make your property more desirable to potential buyers if the hard work has already been done.

3. IMPROVE YOUR CURB APPEAL

Make sure that your property forms a great first impression by improving the way it initially presents. This goes beyond aesthetic improvements, such as manicured lawns, flowers, and a neat and tidy pathway. 

Go outside and look at your property through the eyes of a potential buyer. What would you look for? Does your property appear to be well-cared for? Is there any exterior wall damage? Are the doors and windows in good condition? Does the garage door look presentable and reliable? All these questions and more can really give you an insight as to what to focus on when preparing your home for sale. Improving the outside of your home may not bring in the big bucks directly, but ensuring that it lives up to the rest and makes a great first impression still goes a long way towards securing multiple offers. Even a high-powered pressure wash of the exterior and driveway can take years off of an older home.

FINAL THOUGHTS

There are many options for improving the value of your home, and it will largely depend upon the current condition of your property. Just make sure that whatever upgrades you consider, that you first assess what monetary gain you are likely to make, based on transformation, additional living space, selling desirability, and your location. Your real estate agent can advise you best as to what improvements you most need to focus on.

Guest Contributor: Jennifer Seene