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 Homes that are built before 1995 may have used polybutylene pipes that are outdated and have to be replaced.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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Time-Efficient Rough-In Kit For Bathroom Renovations

Bathroom Renovation By Leone PlumbingBathroom renovation is an exciting endeavor. It’s thrilling but at the same time, it can be time-consuming for a homeowner, especially for the contractor! One challenge that a contractor might encounter is bath waste and overflow installations. But thanks to pre-assembled components such as the True Blue Bath Waste Rough-In Kits that help contractors overcome the challenges when installing bathtub waste and overflows. The product’s pre-assembled components are quick to install and you can even go from box to testing.

Key Features of the True Blue Bath Waste Rough-In Kit

  • Test plugs install with a 1/4 turn and are approved for testing up to 40ft of head. Makes testing fast and reliable.
  • Foamed rubber overflow gasket provides better compression and memory, creating a better and more reliable seal to prevent leaks.
  • The locking drain gasket is designed with a softer durometer and will not fall off at tricky angles. Reduces installation frustrations while creating a better seal.
  • Pre-assembled components make installation quicker, so you can go from box to test faster.

How Do Pre-assembled Components Make Installation So Easy?

The bath waste and overflow system is a very important component of your bathtub. This component both has a stoppable drain and an “overflow” which drains away water before it overflows. This is also one of the most difficult components to install during bathroom renovations. The pre-assembled True Blue Bath Waste Rough-In Kits is one innovative product that makes the contractor’s job more convenient. The product has integrated locking features which reduce the number of tools needed during installation. Sure enough, it reduces frustration and time. Its integrated locking bath shoe gasket keeps it from moving at difficult angles while the drain spud is installed. The overflow and drain test plugs can be installed with a simple quarter turn which makes testing much more reliable and efficient. Time Efficient Bathroom Renovation By Leone Plumbing  

Fewer Tools, Less Trouble!

With a product such as the True Blue Bath Waste Rough-In Kits, you don’t need more tools. The product has an overflow cover that can be locked with a simple clockwise turn. You don’t have to trouble yourself bringing extra screws or tools. Leakage is not a problem because the overflow gasket is made of high-quality foamed rubber material. Unlike other products, the True Blue Bath Waste Rough-In Kit has a round trim that doesn’t require perfect alignment. Other products have lines that look crooked when they are not lined up.

Maximize Time Efficiency With Innovative Products

Remodeling your bathroom can be time efficient with the help of innovative products like the True Blue Bath Waste Rough-In Kit. As the bathroom remodeling market continues to be in demand, it’s important to find time-efficient ways to complete a project. Of course, time efficiency should not affect or compromise the quality of the service. That is why it’s crucial to look for high-quality products that can make installation quicker. Time-efficient bathroom renovation is possible. Contact us TODAY to find out more!  
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Top Reasons For A Business Establishment To Upgrade To A Smart Restroom

Smart Restroom Innovation By Leone PlumbingThe restroom experience of a customer can impact the overall image of a business. That is why a company should see to it that they satisfy the restroom experience of a customer. GP PRO conducted a study and according to their research, a customer most likely never returns to a restaurant with unclean toilets which leaves a negative image. This is not only a concern for restaurants but also for other industries. One way to achieve that quality restroom experience is by upgrading to a smart restroom.

What Is Interesting About A Smart Restroom?

A system called IoT or the “internet of things” is one interesting innovation used by a smart restroom. This system is the heart of smart restrooms which makes it very innovative, safe, and convenient. The system connects physical items through sensors to a user interface on internet-enabled devices. This feature allows a business to conveniently monitor and manage the business with minimal human intervention. For example, the maintenance staff can be notified through their smartphone when supplies are running out. Also, potential leaks can be treated immediately by the staff since they can remotely monitor the water supply.

Why Should A Business Establishment Upgrade To A Smart Restroom?

Upgrading to smart technology can benefit not only the business owner but also the staff and the building maintenance. Here are the reasons why a business should consider upgrading to a smart restroom.
  • Enhances Hygiene Practices
Through automated alerts, the staff can replenish or stock tissue, paper towels, sanitizer, and soap when needed. Thus, the customers can sanitize and wash their hands properly.
  • Promotes Good Customer Experience
The remote monitoring feature of smart toilets allows the staff to adequately stock supplies. The technology can also alert the facilities to treat clogs, leaks, and defective flush valves which minimizes toilet disruptions. A customer will surely have a positive experience with a well-maintained toilet.
  • Advances Sustainability
The technology alerts the staff to replenish supplies only when needed to reduce product waste. Smart technology can monitor faucets and valves to operate optimally to reduce water usage.
  • Minimizes Staff Burnout
Smart technology reduces human interference through automation. For instance, staff can monitor the supplies remotely so they don’t need to go back and forth to the toilet. Everything is automated from checklists, task alerts, and monitoring of performance which saves a lot of effort for the staff.
  • Accurate Monitoring
Through accurate monitoring of smart technology, the business can have an organized and systematic approach to maintaining the facilities including the toilet. Cleaning and maintenance are monitored in real-time so business owners are confident that the establishment is well-maintained.

Explore More About Smart Restrooms!

If you want to upgrade your restroom with smart technology, talk to us anytime! Let us know what you think about this trending technology.
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