Situations When Pipe Bursting Should Be Considered

January 18, 2023 Sewer Lines No comments yet
Pipe Bursting Technology By Leone PlumbingSewer line repairs can happen anytime for a home or business establishment. There are methods or solutions in dealing with sewer repairs that can either be effective or cause inconvenience. In special cases, pipe bursting is one method that is proven to fix your pipes effectively with less damage to your property. But what is pipe bursting and when should it be considered?

Trenchless Technology For Sewer Line Repair

Pipe bursting is a trenchless technology that does not require digging your property to fix or repair your sewer line. That means you can carry on with your day-to-day activities at home, and business can go on as it is. This technology is very convenient and hassle-free. A sewer line repair can take many days to complete and it may interrupt your daily activities. But with trenchless technology, repairs can be done within the day and even a few hours!

How Is Pipe Bursting Done?

Pipe bursting involves the process of expanding and breaking the damaged or old pipes while simultaneously replacing them with new lines. A “bursting head” is fitted through the existing line and once it is pulled, it fractures the existing line. The new pipe is connected to the “bursting head” which drags and places the new line behind it.

Situations When Pipe Bursting Is Applicable

There are particular situations to consider when you apply this trenchless technology.

Property’s Aesthetics

If you are someone who cares about the landscaping of your property, then it is a good option. Since this is a trenchless technology, there is no need to dig large holes in your yard that may affect your property’s aesthetics. This method keeps your property intact and doesn’t require large-scale repair of your property’s landscaping.

Environmental Concerns

Going for trenchless technology is more eco-friendly than other sewer line repair methods. With this kind of technology, there is no need to use chemicals that are harmful to the surrounding environment. Also, the HDPE (High-density polyethylene) pipe commonly used for this technology is made of environmentally safe material. If you opt for sustainability, this is the right choice!

Cleaner Repair Option

This trenchless method of sewer line repair is the cleanest solution we can recommend. The method is the least disruptive since there is less digging on your property that could destroy your landscaping.

If Efficiency is A Must!

Traditional methods of repairing or replacing pipes may take days to finish. But pipe bursting can be completed within the day.

Is Pipe Bursting For Me?

This trenchless solution is applicable for special cases. We can help you assess the condition of your pipelines to figure out the right solution. Contact us now to schedule an assessment!  
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Choosing The Right Water Piping Materials For Your Home

December 27, 2022 Drains, Pipes, Plumbing No comments yet
Leone Plumbing Water Piping SolutionWater piping connections are the most vulnerable part of the plumbing system. That is why you must pick the right piping materials for your home. There are many options to choose from and choosing the right pipe can be confusing. Today, let us look at the different types of pipes to find out what is best for your home plumbing system.

Different Types of Pipes For Your Residential Plumbing System

PVC Pipes
PVC or Polyvinyl Chloride pipes are mostly used for sinks, toilet drains, or waste lines. This type of water piping material is lightweight and more convenient to work with than traditional galvanized steel pipe. However, using PVC pipes is not permitted everywhere. It is better to review your local regulations before installing PVCs.
PEX Pipes
PEX pipes are best used for water supply lines. This plastic piping material is known to withstand the high pressures of your water supply. Professional plumbers are drawn in using PEX pipes since they are flexible to weave through walls, ceilings, basements, and crawl spaces. Like PVC pipes though, they are not permitted everywhere and you have to check your local regulations before installing PEX pipes.
ABS Pipes
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) pipes should not be confused with PVC pipes. They are much alike except that the ABS pipe is black and much softer. It is mostly used for drain and vent lines. This pipe is easy to install, durable, and cost-effective. The only downside is it can easily warp when exposed to direct sunlight.
Copper Pipes
Copper pipes are best used for residential water supply lines. This water piping material is durable and safer to use than other pipe materials like plastics that leach chemicals. Though it’s costly, it is fairly durable for your residential plumbing.
Galvanized Steel Pipes and Cast Iron
Cast iron pipe and galvanized steel pipe are mostly found in older homes. These types of water piping materials are best used for water supply lines, drains, and vent lines. They are known to be very durable and can last for a long time until such time it rusts. These pipes are heavyweight and are difficult to cut through. To this day, they are mostly used in commercial buildings. Water Piping Materials By Leone Plumbing

How Do I Know If I Pick the Right Pipe?

Deciding on the right pipe for your residential plumbing has many factors to consider. First, you need to know the function that the pipe has to perform and also the area where it will be installed. You also have to look at your budget. The cost of the material may affect your decision. In addition, you have to check your local building codes to ensure that the type of pipe you choose is permitted. If you come to a point where you don’t know which options to choose, you can speak to a professional plumber or contractor. Contact us right now and our team of experts can help you decide!  
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When Should I Be Worried About Pipes Freezing?

December 14, 2022 Drains, Leaks, Pipes No comments yet
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

November 29, 2022 Leaks, Pipes No comments yet
  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

November 21, 2022 Leaks, Pipes, Plumbing No comments yet
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

October 28, 2022 Bathroom Remodeling, Toilets No comments yet
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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