Situations When Pipe Bursting Should Be Considered

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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Tree Root Removal Solution For Stubborn Clogs

Leone Plumbing Professional Tree Root RemovalAre you annoyed with the persistent clogs on your toilet, bathtub, or sink drain? Despite rigorous efforts to remove clogs such as toilet papers, baby wipes, hairs, or dirt, there is still something clogging your plumbing system. There can be a real problem here! Roots may be invading your pipes which require professional tree root removal.

The Impact Of Tree Root Invasion On Your Plumbing System

Once tree roots start to get in your pipes or drains, expect that serious clogging will come next. Tree roots are considered “silent killers” that gradually destroy the drainage system without the homeowner knowing it. The presence of roots on pipes can invite other materials to clog like toilet papers, baby wipes, hair, or dirt. The worst scenario you can experience with tree root invasion is the flooding of sewage in your basement. The better way to deal with this problem is through professional tree root removal by an expert plumber.

How Do I Know If There Are Tree Roots On My Pipes?

If there are trees or shrubs nearby, always assume that they can invade your drains and pipes. If you experience the following signs, ask a professional plumber to check if roots are beginning to invade your plumbing system.
Slow Drains
Small roots can get hold of tissues, hairs, and tiny stuff that can accumulate over time which can cause clogs. This can slow the drains and you need to get this inspected and treated.
Slow Flushing Toilet And Sewage Backup
If you experience these signs with gurgling noise when you flush, it can be a sign that roots have entered the pipes.
Clogged Pipes
Root obstruction can clog the pipes which can lead to serious problems such as sewage backup and basement flooding.
Unpleasant Smell
Roots can trap unpleasant substances on your drain like food waste and even dead animals. Once these substances are trapped and start to decompose, they can produce nasty odors which can be so annoying.

Professional Tree Root Removal Solution

Tree root removal from a plumbing system requires professional handling. If not handled professionally, it can lead to other complications which will cause you more money due to major plumbing repairs. A licensed plumber is capable of doing tree root removal by using high-definition and innovative equipment such as sewage cameras. A sewage camera can help locate tree roots inside your pipes. Then, a specialized hydro jetting hose will be inserted into the pipes and send pressurized water to wash away the roots and other clogs. A snake machine with a “cutter tip” is also used to snake the line and cut away any residual tree roots. After that, pipes can be treated with trenchless repair solutions to restore and strengthen your plumbing system. Professional Tree Root Removal Solution By Leone Plumbing

Seek Professional Help For Tree Root Removal

To deal with invading roots, you need to seek help from a professional plumber. Do not allow those annoying tree roots to destroy your plumbing system! Contact our team today to schedule an appointment.
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What Is The Difference Between A Cast Iron and PVC Sewer Pipe?

Leone Plumbing's Sewer Pipes Replacement Service Sewer pipes are one of the important components of a good plumbing system. The most popular choices are cast iron and PVC sewer pipes. With these options, which pipe is better? Before you pick which pipe to use, make sure to know the difference so you can determine which material is best for your needs.

Facts About Cast Iron Pipes

Cast iron pipes have a long history of usage dating back as early as the 1600s. Most old buildings still hold cast iron pipes for many decades (even centuries). Cast iron sewer pipes can withstand the test of time. The famous fountains of Versaille in France hold the oldest water supply system using cast iron from the late 17th century which is still in use up to this day! With its long history, we can say that durability is the main strength of a cast iron pipe. The fountains of Versailles in France holds some of the oldest water supply system (including sewer pipes) using cast iron from the late 17th century.

Facts About PVC Pipes

PVC pipes have been used for 80 years in plumbing and construction. It is relatively young compared to cast iron pipes. This material is made from plastic and has many benefits. It is popularly used because it’s lightweight and most of all, versatile. PVC pipes are also durable and resistant to corrosion and increasing temperature.

Important Comparison Points Between Cast Iron and PVC Sewer Pipes

Flexibility
A cast iron is indeed a strong material. But when a blunt force is applied, it can become brittle and break. PVC on the other hand is much more flexible and resistant to blunt forces and does not break easily.
Friction In Water
Friction can fluctuate water pressure. PVC pipes are much smoother than cast iron pipes. That means, there is less fluid friction and flow rates are consistent with PVC pipes compared to cast iron.
Cost
PVC pipes are almost half the price of cast iron pipes. Since the material is lightweight, installation is much easier which can also lower the labor cost.
Fire Resistance
Cast iron pipes can resist high temperatures and won’t melt easily. The heat threshold of PVC is 450 degrees which can melt in the event of fires.
Noise
Vibration can produce sound (noise). A cast-iron pipe is thick and dense and does not cause too much vibration when water flows through. Since PVC pipe is lightweight, it could vibrate due to water flows which result in noise.
Corrosion
Over time, a cast iron is subject to rust and corrosion and requires regular maintenance. That is not the case with PVC which can withstand rust and corrosion since it’s made of plastic.
Adjustability
Cast iron pipes are adjustable compared to PVC. The fittings can be adjusted even after the installation. However, with PVC, the portion of the plumbing system has to be replaced should there be changes needed.

Between Cast Iron And PVC Sewer Pipes, Which Are Better?

We highly recommend using PVC pipes for modern plumbing systems. The reality for most home and business owners today is that sewer waste contains much more than pure running water like the fountains of Versailles. Grease from the kitchen as well as other sewer waste can lead to significant corrosion and a shorter life expectancy in cast-iron pipes. Leone Plumbing therefore highly recommends using PVC pipes for modern plumbing systems. If you are unsure of the option, contact us today for a consultation.                                                      

Photo Credit: Versailles Fountain – Ernelina at Pixabay

 
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The Importance Of Professional Drain Cleaning Service

Leone Plumbing and Heating Professional Drain Cleaning Services With all of the events that happened last holiday season, have you thought of what went down to your drain? After the party when you are washing dishes, grease and food particles are washed down your drain. That is in addition to soap, hair, and dirt that are making their way through your plumbing system when you take a shower. When was the last time you scheduled a drain cleaning service? Perhaps, you need to prioritize giving your drain the service it deserves.

Why should you prioritize drain cleaning service?

Drains can sometimes go unnoticed until they clog. Irregular cleaning of your shower and sink drains can wreak havoc on your plumbing system which can be very costly! That is why you must prioritize drain cleaning service routinely to reduce any future damages to your home’s plumbing system. Business establishments also need to consider getting their drain serviced since commercial plumbing system tends to work heavily on regular basis.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

Professional drain cleaning services are important with the following benefits.
Reduces Clogging For Faster Drains
Over time, accumulated food particles and debris can result in serious clog issues. Regular cleaning can clear clogs which results in faster drains.
Extends Your Drain’s Lifespan
Regular cleaning can prolong the lifespan of your drains since it minimizes any damages that gradually accumulate.
Eliminates Bad Odors
Stucked food particles and debris on your drain may cause unpleasant odors. Drain cleaning removes not only clogs but eliminates odors too.
Prevents Expensive Repairs
Regular drain maintenance can resolve small issues before they get worse. A professional plumber can identify the issues early on with routine maintenance.

What can you expect from a Professional Drain Cleaning Service?

A professional drain cleaning service ensures to prevent and even eliminate clog issues that pose as a health hazard that can also damage the property. A professional plumber also has the appropriate tools and expertise to resolve plumbing issues without putting your plumbing system at risk of further damage. As a plumbing professional, here is how we approach drain maintenance service.
Clog Assessment
We carefully assess the problem first before offering the right resolution.
Video Inspection
A video camera can identify the cause of clogging. This tool can go below the home or business establishment’s pipes using visible light. It can also identify other issues that need attention like fine cracks that cause leaks. Professional Drain Cleaning Services Provided by Leone Plumbing
Clog Removal
Upon figuring out the issue, we perform Drain Snaking to remove clogs. Depending on the type of clog, we may use hand-cranked or motor-operated snakes.
Hydro-Jetting
For commercial customers such as apartment complexes and plazas that have restaurants, we use a “Jetter” to clean out the sewer lines. This is mainly done to prevent a clog from happening in the future that may cause business downtime. Leone Plumbing Offers Professional Drain Cleaning Services

Set Up An Appointment With Us

We can help you with any professional drain or plumbing concerns. Contact us to book an appointment!  

Photo Credits: Canva

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Removal Of Tree Roots In Sewer Line

Leone Service Tree Roots Removal On Sewer LinesTree roots can easily slip through and invade your sewer line. They are silent destroyers of your sewer line that can lead to numerous expenses. But they can be eliminated and prevented. In this article, we will discuss some of the alternative ways for getting rid of tree roots in sewer lines before they thrive and cause further damages. However, these approaches are NOT recommended due to their safety risks and tedious nature. We always recommend cleaning tree roots mechanically using a snake machine or sewer line replacement.

Handyman Ideas For Getting Rid Of Tree Roots In Sewer Line

You can get rid of roots on a sewer line at the early stage of growth. There are inexpensive DIY solutions that you can use such as:
Rock Salt
This is different from table salt. This is the kind of salt that is thrown on icy sidewalks during winter. All you have to do is to gradually flush a couple of pounds (1/2 pound at a time) of rock salt down the toilet. Allow the rock salt to sit in the pipes for 12 hours by turning off the water. By doing this, you are creating an environment that is hostile for small roots to grow and slowly killing them.
Copper Sulfate
Also known as bluestone, copper sulfate is a type of herbicide. What you will do is flush 1/2 cup of copper sulfate on the toilet. To move the bluestone down the pipes, flush multiple times. Caution though, copper sulfate can be toxic for animals. It is suggested that you leave the house with your pets and come back after several hours. The effect of the bluestone may take a few days and you need to be patient. Please contact the United States EPA for further information about the safe usage of copper sulfate.
Concentrated Weed Killer and Dishwashing Liquid Combo
Mix 400 ml of dishwashing liquid to 800 ml weed killer. After mixing, leave them Removal of tree roots from pipes by Leone Plumbing. for several hours so they can bond together. Pour the mixture on your toilet and flush gradually to ensure it travels to the pipes. Do not flush your toilet until after 24 hours. The foam created by the mixture should coat the roots causing them to die. Caution: This can also kill nearby trees. If you go with this option, talk it over with your household.

For stubborn tree roots, let the professional deal with it!

Dealing with tree roots in sewer line can be a tough one. If a DIY solution in getting rid of tree roots doesn’t work, let a professional do it. Our expert plumber can cut the roots using a snake machine with several tips for cutting and retrieval. This equipment can also remove other debris that causes clogs. There are scenarios wherein the real culprit is those little cracks on the pipes where roots can easily slip in. Our master plumber may also recommend repairing or replacing the pipes if found out to be damaged that allows the roots to grow inside.

We Are Here At Your Service

For professional removal of tree roots in sewer line, talk to us so we can help you.  

Image Credit | “Huge Oak Tree” by RegalShave in Pixabay

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Copper Pipe Repair Solution For A Corroding Septic System

Leone Plumbing's Copper Pipe Repair Service One of the complicated plumbing issues to resolve is septic system corrosion. The only time that this issue can be spotted is during a routine inspection or septic system cleaning. Before finding out the issue, it has done serious damages such as copper pipe corrosion. What is the copper pipe repair solution that can be done here? Let us find out.

What causes copper pipe corrosion on the septic system?

Before we further discuss copper pipe repair, let us talk about the causes of septic system corrosion. Here are some of them. The septic tank discharges hydrogen sulfide gas which smells like a rotten egg! This is mainly caused by naturally occurring sulfate-reducing bacteria that dwell in septic tanks. These bacteria have enzymatic systems which contribute to the corrosion process. They can solubilize the metal by depolarizing the metallic surface with their hydrogenases enzymes.
  • Improper Pipe Installation
If the end of the pipe is not properly reamed, it causes turbulence and increases velocity which allows corrosion to happen. Excessive use of acid flux can also trigger corrosion. Flux is a chemical material that solders the copper pipes together.
  • Chemical Drain Cleaners
Acid-based cleaners can also be a culprit of copper pipe corrosion. Chemical cleaners have a corrosive property that damages the pipes if overly used.

Repairing A Corroded Copper Pipe

You need to pinpoint the corroded area of the pipe before doing a copper pipe repair. Start looking from the beginning of the pipe or the piping joint. Once you identified those areas, you may proceed with the following solution.
1. Patch The Damaged Pipes
Applying a quick patch is an easy fix. All you need to do is to wrap the tape around the damaged pipe. This is not a permanent solution though, so we do not really recommend this.
2. Cut And Replace Method
For heavily corroded pipes, cut the affected part and replace it with a new copper pipe. Using a tubing cutter, the corroded pipe is cut off. With a new copper pipe, you will place it next to the cut you made. After that, apply the flux inside the couplings and slide them on both ends of the original pipe. The final touch is finishing the repair with a torch. Using the torch, melt solder around the joints of the couplings to bond the pipes. But we don’t really recommend this solution since copper is still vulnerable to corrosion.
3. Replace Copper Pipe With PVC Piping
Replacing copper pipe with modern PVC piping is a HIGHLY recommended and a long-term solution. PVC pipe is much resistant to oxidation and corrosion from the fumes in a sewer.

Leone Plumbing Service Copper Pipe RepairDon’t wait to get stressed!

We know that dealing with septic system issues can be stressful. Regardless if it’s a copper pipe repair or pipe replacement, leave it to us! Contact us right now so we can help you.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

Photo Credit | Torchblower – Image by Eugene Brennan from Pixabay

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