When Should I Be Worried About Pipes Freezing?

Pipes Freezing Solution By Leone PlumbingPipes freezing during the winter season can bring trouble to your plumbing system. How long can your pipes stand the freezing temperature and when should you be worried about pipes freezing? Let’s talk about the issue that freezing pipes can bring and the precautions that everyone can take.

Why Do Water Pipes Freeze And Burst During The Winter?

One plumbing issue to watch out for during the winter season is the bursting of pipes. A pipe may burst if it is not able to handle the pressure that arises from freezing water. During winter, the water inside the line expands as it slowly freezes. While it gets close to freezing, the pressure inside the pipe increases. If the water pressure gets too high for the pipe to handle, it will indeed rupture! The freezing water causes the lines to contract and the weak areas of the pipe may burst. It is recommended that you get your pipes checked and repaired before the winter season.

Should I Be Worried About Pipes Freezing?

If the outside temperature is at less than 20 degrees Fahrenheit, then you should be worried about pipes freezing! Water begins to freeze as the temperature drops which causes the pipes to freeze. Cold winds can also freeze the pipes. Pipes with cracks or holes allow the cold air from the outside to blow in and may cause ice formation. Once the pipe is freezing, it is at risk of bursting, resulting in leaks and unexpected flooding. But don’t let these scenarios worry you. There are precautions that you can take to prevent your pipes from bursting.

Precautions To Prevent Pipes From Freezing And Bursting

The contraction of pipes caused by the cold weather is something that we cannot control which may cause leaks. However, there is something you can do to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Here are some of the precautions you can follow:
  • Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
  • Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
  • When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe (even at a trickle) helps prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
  • If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, and set it to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

Protect Your Pipes From Bursting This Winter

The winter season can be fun without being worried about your plumbing system. Preventive measures can alleviate the concern you have with pipes freezing. If you’re dealing with a burst pipe or water leak this winter, just contact us and we are here to help you!
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The Pros and Cons of Installing a Sharkbite Fitting on Pipes

  Leone Plumbing's take about installing a sharkbite fittingSharkbite fittings have been a revolutionary innovation when it comes to plumbing repairs. Installing a sharkbite fitting is simple to use and convenient. In minutes, you can easily connect or fix leaks without soldering and replacing the pipes. However, if you ask professional plumbers, soldering pipes is still better. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of installing a sharkbite fitting to determine which is best for you.

Sharkbite Fittings vs Soldering Pipes

A sharkbite fitting may become loose over time if not properly installed. There has been cases where homeowners call because their home is flooded due to a sharkbite fitting popped off. From a professional standpoint, we strongly recommend soldering pipes since it is a proven effective option. Push-fit fittings (like sharkbite fitting) don’t have the credibility that soldering has. Soldering pipes have been around for a long time before the trend of using push-fit fittings. Some people believe installing a sharkbite fitting is much more convenient than soldering. In this case, whether you solder the pipes or use a sharkbite fitting, there are factors that you need to look at such as:
Your skill and level of experience
Soldering a pipe requires a level of skill and experience like a professional. A professional plumber have mastered the skill of soldering pipes over the years. You may do soldering yourself by purchasing the required tools, but it may lead to a low-quality output which can worsen the problem. For a non-professional, it’s the right choice to use a sharkbite fitting since it is easy to install.
Place of the repair
Installing a sharkbite fitting would be effective in easily accessible places like below the sink or on a water heater connection. Soldering is recommended for hard-to-reach places like underground or behind walls since these places are unnoticeable and we have to ensure that the pipe connections are secured. Push-fit fittings are not recommended in hard-to-reach places since their failure rate is high. Fixing pipes underground or behind walls can be challenging and you should never resort to DIY fixing.
Your budget
Installing a sharkbite fitting is indeed a quick fix and much more convenient. However, convenience always comes at a cost. For a standard half-inch pipe, it may cost you $8.00 to $10.00 per fitting. For a basic copper fitting, it can cost up to $5.00 for the same size. If there are several fittings to replace, the cost difference may add up quickly. Soldering pipes on the other hand may cost less than installing sharbite fitting and it’s a long-term solution.

Choose An Option That Fits Your Needs

Installing a sharkbite fitting is a convenient and quick-fix solution. But if you opt for a long-term solution, soldering is the best option due to its credibility and result. Copper pipes may last 50 to 70 years as long as it is installed properly and well-maintained. If you are unsure about your decision, you can contact us and we are here to help you!
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All You Need To Know About Replacing Polybutylene Pipes

Polybutylene Pipes Replacement Services By Leone PlumbingWhen it comes to house renovation, one important aspect that a homeowner has to look into is the plumbing system. In the process of renovation, you may uncover plumbing issues that have to be dealt with such as obsolete pipes. Homes that are built before 1995 may have used polybutylene pipes that are outdated and have to be replaced.

Why Does It Matter To Replace Polybutylene Pipes?

If your home is built back in the mid-70s to mid-90s, you may have polybutylene piping underground. It really matters to replace polybutylene pipes due to the high risk of bursts or leaking with this type of piping. There is even a history of lawsuits filed to stop the usage of polybutylene piping due to the damages it caused. It could be a long-term problem if this type of pipe isn’t replaced. Leaking old pipes allows water to pool up inside ceilings and walls which can be a breeding ground for molds. Aside from the health hazard due to molds, leaking pipes can also increase your water bill!

How Can You Tell If Your Home Has Polybutylene Pipes?

Polybutylene pipes are known for their blue color trademark. However, they are also available in colors black and gray. But the surest identifier of polybutylene piping is a stamp that says “PB2110”. Another way that you can find polybutylene pipes is in places where they are commonly located. They are installed as water supply lines only and you can’t find them as vent pipes or drain. These are the places in your home where you can find them. Leone Plumbing Polybutylene Pipes Replacement Services
  • At your main shutoff valve
  • Connected to your water heater
  • Attached to sinks and toilets
  • At the ceiling of your basement where pipes are exposed
 

Why Do You Need To Replace Polybutylene Pipes?

Polybutylene (Poly B) piping is known as a cheap and easy solution. However, it was later found out that polybutylene piping could not withstand harsh disinfectants in the public water supply such as chlorine. Over time, polybutylene pipes may corrode and crack which will cause leaks. Leaks caused by leaking Poly B pipes are difficult to detect immediately (since it’s underneath) until you experience the damages it brings. Since Poly B pipes have a high risk to burst or leak, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommends that homes with Poly B piping get their plumbing system replaced.

Replacements for Poly B Pipes

The suitable replacements for Poly B pipes are copper pipe, PEX tubing, and PVC pipe. There are factors and considerations as well as which ones to pick. It would be best if you speak with an expert to help you assess your old pipes and what would be your best option. Contact us today so our experts can help you! We have options to offer that are easy on your budget and we even have financing options available for you.    
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Aging-In-Place Bathroom Renovation Ideas For Senior Citizens

Senior Citizens Bathroom Renovation by Leone PlumbingIt is important for senior citizens to live in a place where they are safe, healthy, and well taken care of. Many seniors are now preferring to remain in their homes and continue living in their own communities. The so-called aging-in-place renovations are now becoming popular which makes safe and friendlier homes for baby boomers. In this blog, we will look specifically at aging-in-place bathroom renovation ideas for elderly people.

Why Do Baby Boomers Have To Upgrade Their Bathroom?

Most senior citizens live in homes that were built more than decades ago and this is where they lived most of their adult lives. Houses back then were not built or designed specifically to aid the need of the elderly people. That means home modification is needed particularly in the bathroom.

Aging-In-Place Ideas For Bathroom Renovation

Senior citizens need to be in comfortable and familiar surroundings as they age. They are prone to slip and falling in the bathroom so it has to be modified for a safe and accessible space. The following are some bathroom remodel ideas for senior citizens that you can apply.
Grab Bars
Seniors would naturally reach out for balance in the bathroom to shower or when they use the toilet. Installing Grab bars will help the elders access and navigate the bathroom safely. The grab bars have to be slip resistant and securely mounted to the wall. Bathroom Renovation by Leone Plumbing for Senior Citizens
Vanity Height And Installation
Adjusting the vanity height is a big help for seniors in a wheelchair. According to the ADA (The Americans with Disabilities Act), the ideal vanity height for people in a wheelchair is 34″ or shorter. Adjusting the vanity height prevents injuries as elders move about the bathroom. For senior citizens who use a walker on wheels, it is suggested to install a floating vanity to allow easier accessibility.
Non-Slip Solutions For Floors
There are several non-slip floor solutions available such as, applying anti-slip treads or stickers, rubber flooring, and adding non-slip rugs. Installing smaller tiles can also help create more grip than bigger tiles. For a seamless look, you can also upgrade to anti-slip tiles.
Elevated Toilets
Adding extra height to the toilet is another helpful bathroom design idea for the elderly. Going in and off the toilet makes it easier for senior citizens if you add extra height. The ideal toilet height for the elderly is three to five inches higher than the standard toilet.
Upgrade To Wide Doors
Widening the bathroom doors allows easier access for seniors on a walker or wheelchairs. The recommended door width is 36 inches to provide enough space to navigate going in and out of the bathroom.
Zero-Threshold Showers
Upgrading to curbless showers eliminates trip hazards since the threshold is eliminated and there is no need to step over.

Seek Professional Help With Aging-In-Place Bathroom Renovation

Renovating a bathroom for your elderly loved ones requires a professional touch. It is our goal to build a safe bathroom for you and your family. So contact us today and let’s talk!
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Proper Maintenance Of Public Toilets

Proper Public Toilet Maintenance Tips by Leone PlumbingIn businesses such as restaurants, malls, and airports, the number of people visiting public toilets is increasing daily. Therefore, it is critical that the public toilets are properly maintained for employees and customers. In a time when we are greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, public toilet maintenance should be a priority to keep your employees and customers safe and healthy.

Why Is It Important To Maintain And Keep Public Toilets Clean?

Clients and visitors can be easily disgusted if the restroom is not properly maintained. A study conducted by GP PRO says that unclean public toilets can turn away customers which leaves a negative image for the business. That means your public restroom plays a great role in a customer’s first impression of your business. A well-maintained bathroom can create a professional image, while a filthy bathroom can bring the opposite. Also with the onslaught of COVID-19, it is important to implement a high level of toilet maintenance. The spread of viruses and bacteria that causes illnesses can be prevented with regular cleaning and maintenance of public restrooms.

How To Maintain A Public Restroom?

Your business should practice proper maintenance of public restrooms. Here are some of the steps on how to keep your public toilets clean and well-maintained regularly.
1. Monitor Your Toilets And Urinals Every Day
You need to check every day to see if the toilets and urinals are clean and sanitized. Make sure that they are clog-free, properly working, and with adequate water supply. If you identified any plumbing concerns, contact a professional plumber immediately to take action!
2. Replenish Restroom Supplies
Make sure that your public toilet has enough supply all throughout the day. A lack of tissue, paper towels, and soap in a restroom can easily upset customers and employees. You need to replenish toilet supplies when needed.
3. Empty Trash Bins
A well-maintained public restroom should have enough trash bins and should be emptied regularly before it gets full.
4. Mop The Floor Frequently
A dirty floor can be a habitat for germs that can cause diseases. It is one of the restroom surfaces that you should keep clean and sanitized. To avoid safety hazards, consider mopping the floors after business hours. Leone Plumbing Public Toilet Maintenance

Make Public Toilet Maintenance A Priority For Your Business

Proper maintenance of public toilets is one of the keys to a successful business. A clean and well-maintained restroom can leave a positive impression on your customers and employees. But a dirty restroom with a dripping faucet, broken toilet handle, or leaking toilets can be a nightmare not only for your customers but also for your business! If you encounter any of these plumbing issues, contact us anytime! Let us help you achieve your toilet maintenance goals.
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Sustainable Eco-Friendly Solutions For Bathroom Drains

Leone Plumbing Eco-Friendly Bathroom DrainsAnother important aspect to consider when building or renovating a bathroom is sustainability. We can achieve sustainability in our projects by considering eco-friendly solutions available in the market. Going green is doable by using sustainable building products such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), porcelain, reclaimed wood, and bamboo flooring. These materials are very popular because they are durable and can last for many years. But today, we will highlight one interesting shower solution that is eco-friendly that meets the standards when it comes to quality sustainable products.

Why Should We Go For Eco-Friendly Solutions For Our Bathroom?

Savoring the good things that life has to offer doesn’t always come with ease. Carbon dioxide emissions are one thing that has a negative impact on the environment around us. In the United States, residential and commercial establishments contribute almost 40 percent of carbon dioxide emissions. But we can lessen the percentage by going for eco-friendly solutions for bathroom renovation. One successful eco-friendly innovation is the QuickDrain complete shower solution!

The QuickDrain Complete Shower Solution Is An Eco-Friendly And Time-Efficient Option

The QuickDrain shower solution has taken one step towards sustainability from the time of production. Since 2015, the brand has repurposed 19 million plastic bottles into thousands of pre-sloped and tile-ready shower pan systems. For every QuickDrain shower pan system installed, 450 plastic bottles are recycled! The product is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles which makes it the best eco-friendly product you can find. It’s not only friendly to the environment it’s time efficient too. Its interlocking design can be quickly and easily modified directly on-site into any size or shape. Another perk of installing the product is it offers the chance to earn LEED certification points. Eco-Friendly Bathroom Drains Solution

What are LEED points?

LEED is — Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design— points from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). USGBC is an organization that promotes and advocates greener and sustainable building design, construction, and operation. It is the most widely used green rating system in the world. LEED-certified homes utilize less energy and few resources which promotes healthy and safe homes.

Go Green With Sustainable Bathroom Drains

It’s a “green choice” to install sustainable bathroom drain systems such as the QuickDrain complete shower solution. Using sustainable materials for your bathroom renovation is a wise contribution you can make to the environment. Let your bathroom renovation go green! Contact us and let’s talk about sustainability for your bathroom renovation needs.
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