Window Replacement Tips For Homeowners

by Posted in Home Improvement Tagged , , , , , ,

Window Replacement Rockville MD projects require accurate measurements of the existing rough openings. Then the contractor can carefully remove the old window, making sure not to damage the wall and frame.

Window Replacement

Consider a full-frame replacement, which adds a new sill and trim around the window, or an insert replacement. Both give you more options than standard windows designed for new construction.

There are a wide range of window styles, materials and types. Homeowners decide which type of windows to purchase based on climate, functionality, privacy, budget and architectural design. When it comes to selecting a replacement window, homeowners have even more options to consider. For instance, there are different types of frame materials such as vinyl and wood. There are also different glass types such as tinted, insulated and double-paned. There are also a variety of accents to choose from including muntin bars (removable vertical and horizontal timbers that appear to divide a window into a grid of small panes) as well as Astragal Bars, Georgian Bars or Mock Horns, which are decorative flourishes that adorn the top corners of the window casing.

Window frames come in various shapes and sizes as well. Some frames are made from wood, while others are made from metal or composite materials. Some frame materials are better insulators than others. Metal, for example, conducts heat very quickly and can increase your energy costs. Wood, on the other hand, is a natural insulator and helps reduce energy costs.

When choosing a replacement window, you should also take into consideration the size of the window and its location in your home. For example, an awning or casement window that opens from the top is a good choice for windy and rainy climates because it provides a more secure seal than a sliding window. However, these styles do not provide access to the air conditioner, so if you live in a hot climate you might want to reconsider this type of window.

Sliding windows operate horizontally along a plastic or metal track. They are available in double- or single-hung versions, where one or both sashes can be opened. Awning and casement windows open by turning a crank, rather than swinging out like doors, which is an advantage for hard-to-reach areas of your home.

If you’re shopping for replacement windows, look for a manufacturer that is a member of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to ensure high quality. You should also consider the window’s U-factor and condensation resistance, as these are critical to your comfort.

Appearance

Homeowners are increasingly interested in replacing old windows with new ones that maximize light and provide views of the surrounding landscape. These windows also help to keep the air in a home more stable, which will save energy. Natural light is known to stimulate the brain and create a positive mood, making it important for an office or a living space. Window replacement in West Covina will allow homeowners to enjoy the beauty of their property.

There are two types of replacement windows available: fixed and sash units. Fixed windows are those that do not have moving parts and are often called single-light or double-light windows. Sash units, on the other hand, are those that have movable windows – either sliding or slidable – and usually consist of two lites (or panes) each. There are several different options for window sashes, including double-hung windows and casement windows.

Muntins and mullions are the pieces of wood that sit in between window panes to make a cross-like pattern. Some muntins and mullions are decorative, while others actually support the panes. Whether they are real or faux, when these parts get damaged it is important to call your local Mr. Handyman to repair them.

Increasingly, value-conscious consumers are no longer captive to standard fat white synthetic frames that shout “replacement window.” Instead, they can choose from a variety of durable composite frames with wooden appearances. Homeowners can even replace the sashes, which are the parts of the windows that hold the glass, with narrow profiles for a more Colonial-style look.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a key feature to consider when choosing a replacement window. A window’s ability to retain and conserve energy depends on its frame material, glazing type and insulating properties. At Window World, we recommend vinyl windows for homeowners because they offer superior insulation compared to other materials, such as aluminum and wood. We also recommend double- or triple-pane glass as opposed to single pane. Single-pane windows allow heat to escape during the winter and air to enter during the summer, increasing your heating and cooling costs. Double or triple-pane windows will keep your home more comfortable year-round, reducing energy consumption and saving you money on utility bills.

A good way to determine the energy efficiency of a window is to look for the ENERGY STAR label, which is used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to help consumers identify energy-efficient products. ENERGY STAR certified windows have been tested to ensure they reduce heat transfer and meet a certain climate zone’s requirements for insulation.

ENERGY STAR windows are typically more efficient than non-certified windows, but the exact amount of savings you will realize will depend on where you live and the type of window you choose. Generally, replacing old inefficient windows with new Energy Star windows can save homeowners 12 to 13 percent on energy bills.

To maximize the energy efficiency of your replacement windows, select Low-E glass with an argon gas fill, which helps reduce energy loss by keeping the window closer to room temperature. Argon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that offers excellent insulating properties and has a lower thermal conductivity than air. It is also a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional krypton or mercury vapor fills.

Another option is to install awnings or exterior shading, such as shutters, on the outside of your home to block out sunlight and limit heat gain. In addition, you can add weather stripping and caulking around the frames to reduce air leaks. Lastly, it is important to hire a professional window replacement contractor that specializes in installation and can ensure proper insulation and sealing.

Installation

If you’re replacing an existing window, it is important to properly install the new window. This is critical to ensuring that the window will seal and operate correctly.

Ideally, the window should be installed from the inside of your home. This minimizes the amount of exterior work needed and allows for a neater installation. However, in some situations, especially with full frame replacements and specific window types, it may be necessary to install the window from the outside.

Before beginning the installation, the window opening should be cleaned thoroughly and any repairs made. If the sill is rotted, it should be replaced. It is also a good idea to clean out any dust or debris that may have collected in the frame opening. Next, a sheet of flashing tape should be applied to the nailing fin. This will shed water that may get between the exterior sheathing and the window, keeping it away from the house and preventing moisture damage.

The window should then be inserted into the opening and secured with shims. Using a level, check that the window is both level and plumb (square) in the frame opening. If it is not, the windowsill will not be able to seal properly and moisture may leak into the home. Once the window is in place, use shims to adjust it as needed, being careful not to shim too much.

Lastly, apply a bead of exterior caulk around the edge of the window and press it firmly in place against the flashing tape. This will help prevent moisture from seeping into the frame and damaging the wood and insulation. It is also a good idea to caulk the interior trim molding and any jamb extensions that may be needed to fully secure the frame in place.

It’s important to choose a window that is the same size or slightly smaller than the existing window. This will ensure that the existing frame will not be removed and the structure of the home is not compromised. Lastly, it’s important to purchase the windows before tearing out your old one, this will allow you to promptly close up the opening.

How Commercial Plumbing Differs From Residential Plumbing

by Posted in Plumbing Tagged , , , , , ,

Commercial plumbing is a type of plumbing that deals with businesses and their needs for water and drainage systems. It differs from residential plumbing in many ways.

One major difference is the scale of work. Commercial spaces are often much larger than homes. Plumbers Topeka KS deal with more fixtures daily.

plumbers

Commercial plumbing deals with water supply and drainage systems in large buildings, public spaces and industrial facilities. While it may appear similar to residential plumbing, the work involved is much more demanding. Commercial spaces are often larger, with more sinks, toilets, and other appliances. This can make the plumbing system more complicated, and it’s more likely that something will go wrong. It’s also important for commercial plumbers to have extensive knowledge of building codes and regulations.

Unlike a home, where the plumber is working mostly with one family at a time, there are hundreds of people using the bathroom and kitchen in a commercial space on a daily basis. This means the plumbing is in constant use, which causes it to wear out faster than a household plumbing system. A plumbing problem in a restaurant or office building can cause major disruptions to business operations, so it’s essential that the plumber can work quickly and efficiently.

One of the most common problems in commercial spaces is clogged toilets and drains. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including food waste and other debris that can build up in the pipes. A clogged toilet can lead to water spills and loss of productivity, so it’s essential that the plumbing system is kept in good working order. Commercial plumbers can install new fixtures, replace old ones, and repair any problems with the existing systems.

Many commercial spaces have a centralized heating and cooling system, so the plumbing needs to be able to handle high volumes of hot and cold water. This can require different types of piping and materials, and it’s important that the plumbing is installed correctly to prevent future issues. Commercial plumbers can install and repair a wide range of heating and cooling systems, including radiators, hot water heaters, and steam generators.

In addition to installing and repairing systems, commercial plumbing companies can also offer maintenance services. This includes inspecting the plumbing system on a regular basis and identifying potential issues before they become larger problems. It also involves testing the safety of the water in the building, ensuring it meets health and safety standards.

Unlike domestic plumbing, commercial plumbing services focus on larger-scale systems for large buildings like retail complexes, office complexes, hotels and more. The larger size of these structures creates more challenges for plumbers due to the vast amount of space and pipes they need to manage. In addition, these systems must adhere to stricter building codes and regulations than their residential counterparts.

Because of this, regular maintenance and inspections are more important for commercial properties than they are for domestic homes. When the plumbing system is not properly maintained, it can lead to a variety of problems such as clogs, leaks and even flooding. These issues can be costly for businesses and result in loss of revenue. However, with the help of a trusted and experienced commercial plumbing company, businesses can prevent these issues by scheduling regular maintenance services.

Plumbing maintenance should focus on a variety of tasks such as cleaning drains, inspecting pipework for damage and corrosion and testing water quality. These tests are necessary to ensure that the plumbing system complies with regulations and meets safety standards. Additionally, these tests can help identify potential problems before they become major emergencies. This can save businesses money on costly repairs and improve overall operational efficiency.

Some signs that it is time to replace a plumbing system include extensive leaks, low water volume and old fixtures. Leaking faucets and running toilets are common indicators of a problem that needs to be addressed immediately, as they can cause significant damage if left unattended. Other signs include corrosion of the pipework, frequent clogs and a lack of hot water in sinks or toilets.

Another thing to keep in mind is that many commercial plumbing systems are installed for decades or even longer, which means they need to be built using higher-quality materials and parts to withstand the test of time. Additionally, these systems are subject to greater stress and wear than their domestic counterparts due to the number of people who use them on a daily basis.

One of the best ways to stay on top of commercial plumbing maintenance is by using a field service management software that offers customizable maintenance checklists that can be accessed or sent out from the office or the field. Technicians can be prompted or made to fill out these forms as part of the job closeout process, helping to foster accountability and ensure that all steps of the maintenance process are completed. This also helps businesses reduce call-backs and improve overall efficiency.

The plumbing systems in commercial spaces like office buildings, shopping malls, hospitals and warehouses are more complex than those found in residential properties. This means that they are more likely to experience problems and require the services of a professional plumber. Commercial plumbing covers all piping, water supply and drainage systems for commercial spaces such as multipurpose buildings, high-rise offices, strip malls, restaurants and smaller apartment complexes and condominiums. It is different from residential plumbing because it deals with larger spaces and facilities that can accommodate a lot more people at one time than single-family homes.

A large part of commercial plumbing is repairing plumbing issues that arise from frequent use. With so many people using the same pipes and fixtures on a daily basis, it is natural that some wear and tear will occur over time. A clogged toilet or sink can be a huge inconvenience for everyone in the building, and it is important to have it fixed as soon as possible.

Unlike residential pipes, which are usually laid out in a simple grid, commercial pipes run through more complicated and extensive networks. This makes them more susceptible to damage and blockages, which can result in higher water bills and costly repairs. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring, but when they do, it is crucial to call a plumber right away.

In addition to repairing normal wear and tear, commercial plumbers also deal with high-risk situations. For example, a busted pipe in a mall or office can cause a flood that affects multiple floors and causes significant damage. Commercial plumbers are trained to assess the situation and determine the best course of action accordingly.

Another reason it is important to have a commercial plumber on hand is to ensure the safety of employees and customers. For example, a leaking pipe can lead to mold and mildew, which can be dangerous for those who are sensitive to these substances. A commercial plumber will be able to inspect the entire property and ensure that the issue is contained before it spreads.

When a plumber installs new plumbing fixtures in a home, they often put them through a lot of wear and tear before they need to be replaced. Commercial plumbing systems go through the same kind of stress but on a much larger scale. Buildings like hotels, malls, and office buildings have hundreds if not thousands of people use their bathrooms and kitchen facilities daily. This means that the pipes and fixtures have to be made of very durable materials. It also helps to be proactive about maintenance and replacements, as these can prevent problems from getting worse.

Typical replacement services include installing new toilets, replacing old faucets, and fixing leaky pipes. Plumbers can also help with energy efficiency by installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, which cut down on water consumption and lower utility bills.

In addition to these general services, a plumbing company can install or replace water heaters in a business. They can also inspect the entire plumbing system and recommend any upgrades or replacements. This can help businesses keep their facilities up to date and ensure that they are meeting any local regulations.

Some of the other common replacement services that a commercial plumber can offer include:

Even the most durable plumbing fixtures and pipes will eventually need to be replaced. Luckily, there are plenty of signs that indicate when it’s time for an update. For example, stains on the walls and floors are usually a sign of a leaky pipe or fixture. It’s also important to check for rust or corrosion, which can lead to serious issues down the line.

Another big indicator that it’s time for an upgrade is if your plumbing is inefficient. For example, older toilets can waste a lot of water, which will lead to higher utility bills. Newer toilets are designed to use less water without sacrificing performance, so upgrading to these can save you money.

While it’s easy to think of plumbing as something that you can just ignore until it breaks, it’s important to maintain your plumbing and replace parts when necessary. A professional commercial plumbing company can help you decide what fixtures are best for your needs and can even install them for you so you don’t have to worry about picking up a toolbox.

What to Look For in a Hot Water Heater Repair

by Posted in Plumbing Tagged , , , ,

If your hot water heater is older than 10 years and a leak is occurring, you should consider replacement. However, if your unit is less than ten years old, a repair may make more sense.

Hot Water Heater Repair

Often times, hot water heater issues are easily fixable. In fact, many are quite inexpensive to solve. Contact Hot Water Heater Repair Morris County for professional help.

Hot water is something that most of us take for granted. We use it when showering, washing clothes or dishes and a host of other household chores. When you lose your supply of warm water it can cause major disruption in your home. To prevent this from happening, it is important to keep your water heater well maintained and to have a solid plan of action when something goes awry. This can help you avoid costly repairs and to feel comfortable that you can fix any issues quickly and efficiently.

There are several different reasons that you might not be getting enough hot water from your tank. One possibility is that the thermostat has been set to a higher temperature than you want. In this case, you can reset the thermostat to a lower setting (but not so low that it could cause scalding).

Another issue is that you might have an undersized hot water heater for your household needs. This can happen if you have a large family or if you are using a lot of appliances at the same time (like running the dishwasher and washing machine simultaneously). If this is the case, your plumber can recommend an appropriately sized replacement unit.

If you have a gas water heater, it is possible that the burner orifice has become clogged with magnesium and calcium sediments. In this case, you will need to call in a technician to clean the orifice and to adjust your gas pressure. In addition, you may need to replace your water lines, which requires removing drywall and should only be performed by a licensed professional.

Unusual smells or discoloration

If you notice a foul smell or discoloration in your water, it’s important to call in a professional right away. This is often a sign that your hot water heater may be nearing the end of its life and will need to be replaced soon. However, in some cases it can be repaired to extend the life of your unit. Water heater repairs can include replacing the anode rods in your unit. These metal rods help stave off corrosion in your tank. If they wear out, they can cause rust-colored water. In addition, the corroded rod can cause sulfur bacteria to grow in your tank, which produces that awful rotten egg smell. The odor can also be caused by hard water, which can deposit sediment in your tank. Installing a water softener or filter will usually resolve the problem.

If your heater has a rust-colored exterior, it’s likely that you need to replace the anode rods. These are normally made of magnesium or aluminum. Over time, these metals can react with sulfates in your water to produce hydrogen sulfide, which is the rotten egg odor you’ve probably noticed. The odor can be eliminated by temporarily raising the temperature of your water to kill the bacteria. This should be done with caution to avoid scalding. Water heater repairs can involve replacing the anode rod with a less reactive aluminum one, which should prevent the odor in the future.

If you’re noticing that it takes longer than usual to get warm water, this is another indication that your hot water heater is in need of repairs. Make sure the power to your unit is off and check the circuit breaker or high-temperature cutoff switch to make sure they haven’t tripped.

Thermocouple issues

Thermocouples are essential in gas water heaters for safety reasons. They are designed to detect whether or not the pilot light is burning and then send a signal to the gas valve so that it can allow in gas and keep the pilot light lit. If the thermocouple fails to detect that the pilot light is lit it will shut off the flow of gas causing the pilot to go out and then you won’t have hot water.

If the pilot light goes out frequently or the water heater is over 10 years old it may be time to replace the thermocouple. Cleaning the thermocouple can help but it is usually best to just buy a new one. You can do this yourself if you are DIY-inclined and have access to the correct tools. To do this you will need to shut off the gas flow and disconnect the thermocouple from the control unit. You will then need to purchase a replacement from either a plumbing supply center that carries your brand or the plumber who installed it.

Once you have a new thermocouple you will need to reconnect it to the control unit and the gas valve. When doing this you will need to use open-end wrenches to unscrew the gas tubes from the combination thermostat and the gas valve. Once disconnected you will then need to slide the old thermocouple out of the bracket by pulling and twisting.

Once the thermocouple is replaced you will need to re-connect the gas line and then screw in the pilot tube. You will then need to re-connect the electronic igniter for an electric water heater or the gas valve for a standing pilot water heater.

Dip tube issues

The dip tube is a long piece of plastic in the bottom of your water heater that transfers cold water to hot water. If the dip tube breaks or deteriorates, it can dramatically reduce the amount of hot water your home has available. If you’ve noticed a decrease in the temperature of your hot water or small pieces of plastic are showing up in your faucet aerators and washer supply tubes, it may be time to replace the dip tube.

Typically made of polypropylene, dip tubes have a lifespan of 10-12 years. Depending on your water chemistry and the chemical composition of your tank, they can wear out sooner than that. In the mid to late 1990s there was a manufacturing issue with a particular supplier of plastic dip tubes that are used in gas and electric water heaters. These tubes were prone to breaking and disintegrating, allowing cold water to mix with hot water in the tank and significantly reducing the amount of hot water available for use.

If you’re having problems with your dip tube, the first thing you should do is check your water heater’s serial number. If it’s between 1993 and 1997, you likely have a defective dip tube from this manufacturer that should be replaced.

You can purchase a replacement dip tube at any hardware store or online. It comes in two forms, one is a “flanged” style that fits over the pipe nipple and is drawn out of the tank by the nipple and another is a permanent installation that has a new pipe nipple attached to it that can simply be pulled straight up and out of the water heater. The new dip tube should be cut to the correct length before installing it.

Pressure valve issues

If you notice water leaking from the valve on your water heater, it is likely because there is too much pressure in the system. It may also be a sign that your thermal expansion tank is faulty. These problems can be costly due to the amount of water wasted as well as a potential environmental hazard if dirty runoff makes its way into natural waterways and ecosystems. In addition, excessive pressure can cause pipes to burst and lead to water damage in your home or business.

Pressure issues often begin with the temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P) malfunctioning. These safety features tend to sit without use for a long time and can wear out from age and overuse. When they do operate, however, it is to relieve excess pressure that has built up in the hot water heater. If the problem is not addressed, it can lead to a ruptured tank and flooding of your home or office.

To test whether your T&P valve is working properly, open and close the lever on the valve a few times to make sure it is functioning correctly. If it is still sticking or not opening and closing properly, you should call a professional plumber to replace the valve.

post

All The Plumbing Repair Solutions You’re Looking For

by Posted in Uncategorized

There are a number of common plumbing issues that need professional attention. While some of these problems have at-home fixes, it’s always best for the longevity of your plumbing to let a plumber take care of them.

Some of the most common plumbing repairs include drain cleaning, clogs, water quality issues and leaks. Read on to learn more about these plumbing problems and who should fix them.

Clogged Drains

We rely on our drains to carry away waste, and it’s only natural that some of that material will build up over time. Clogged drains can lead to slow water flow, backups and even flooding. Fortunately, this is an easy problem to solve for homeowners with some basic tools and the know-how.

The first step is to shut off the water supply. This will keep any accidental water (like from a running toilet or dishwasher) from entering the clogged pipe and further worsening the situation. You may also want to put in a stopper or cover the drain with a rubber ducky (found at most hardware stores) to prevent further clogging until you can call in a professional.

Most clogged drains are caused by soap scum, hair, food particles and other solids that build up over time in your pipes and pipes’ openings. These clogs are often worse in areas with hard water, which has minerals that can settle and clog pipes. Installing a water softener can help with this problem.

Other clogs can be caused by flushing things down the drain that shouldn’t go in there, such as paper towels, tampons, baby wipes or other items from your toilets. A plunger can usually clear these types of clogs by creating a suction that forces the clog away from the pipe. If a plunger isn’t working, try using a drain snake, which you can find in most hardware stores. These are wire-like devices that you feed into a clogged pipe while cranking the handle, and they break up or pull away clog materials and move them through your pipes.

If none of these methods work, it’s time to call in a plumber. But before you do, try this tip: Pour one-half cup of salt and a half cup of baking soda down the clogged drain. This will cause a chemical reaction that will apply pressure and corrosive action to the clog, breaking it apart and dissolving it so your water can flow freely again. The salt and baking soda are inexpensive, but you might have to repeat this process a few times before it takes effect.

Leaking Pipes

Pipe leaks are a common problem, and they’re usually caused by age-related wear and tear or a bad joint. They may seem like a minor nuisance, but they can lead to water damage, expensive utility bills, and potential mold growth. The best thing you can do is to act fast — and use the right tools — to repair them.

There are a few different ways to fix leaking pipes. The first step is to turn off the water supply. Locate the stopcock, close it, and dry the area around the pipe before you start. This prevents further water damage and makes the job much easier.

The next step is to examine the pipe to determine what’s causing the leak. You can usually find the source of the leak by looking for signs of water damage or listening for hissing sounds. If the leak is in a hard-to-reach spot, you might need to use pressure testing equipment or specialized cameras to find it.

Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, it’s time to make a quick repair. Duct tape is a great option for most leaks, as long as you don’t have a break that spans more than several inches and you’re planning on a permanent solution soon after. To use duct tape, just close off the water supply, clean and dry the area, and wrap a couple layers of duct tape over the damaged section of pipe.

Another great option for a temporary leak fix is a pipe repair sleeve. These sleeves are available at most hardware stores and consist of a rubber gasket patch and a clamp that work together to seal the broken section of pipe. To use the sleeve, simply cut off a piece of rubber that’s about as long as the leaky section of pipe, wrap it around the broken area, and secure it with a hose clamp or pipe-sleeve clamp.

Another good option is a pipe repair patch and clamp kit, which is similar to the sleeve but works for larger breaks and can be used on a variety of pipe materials. Before using it, you’ll need to shut off the water supply, clean and dry the broken area, and sand down any rough edges to help the neoprene patch adhere properly.

Water Quality Issues

Water quality issues are caused by a variety of factors. These include naturally occurring contaminants such as arsenic and other heavy metals, which can leach from pipes and soil; industrial pollutants; and lack of sanitation. Many of these contaminants are carried by rainfall, runoff or stormwater to lakes, rivers, aquifers and coastal waters, where they have adverse impacts on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Some pollutants enter drinking water during treatment or distribution, including byproducts of chlorine bleaching and ion exchange processes. Others occur when water passes through corroded pipes, such as iron or galvanized steel, resulting in rust-colored water and a metallic taste.

Water-related problems are most common in homes with a private water supply, although they can also occur in public and community water supplies. These problems can cause health problems, damage equipment or plumbing, or make water undesirable due to its appearance, taste, odor or staining. Discolored water is usually a sign of other impurities in the water, such as silt or the presence of oxidized metals (which gives it a brown, orange, red, blue, or green tinge). Unpleasant odors are often caused by bacterial contamination or by hydrogen sulfides, which can give the water a rotten egg smell. Other unpleasant effects include dingy laundry or soap that doesn’t lather, greasy rings around bathtubs and sinks, scale build-up on shower heads, tubs and sinks, and gray or white film or spots in dishwashers.

Sewer Backups

If sewage is backing up into your sinks, tubs, toilets and showers, you have a serious problem. This hazard to your health and safety requires immediate action from a plumber. The first thing to do is shut off water going into all drains throughout your home. Also, turn off electricity if wastewater flows near electrical outlets. Then, if possible, shut off your home’s main water valve until your plumber arrives.

The signs of a sewer backup are clear: clogged toilets that don’t flush, murky-looking wastewater in drains and bathtubs, wet spots around floor drains in basements, garages and laundry rooms, and an unusual smell wafting through your home. In addition, your yard may show signs of damage from a blocked or damaged sewer line. Sewer repair experts can inspect your entire sewer system and make necessary repairs.

Heavy rains from summer storms are often to blame for sewer backups. When storms dump a lot of water at once, it can overload the municipal sewer systems and cause sewage to back up into homes. The good news is that it’s usually easy for a plumber to diagnose and fix this issue.

In some cases, what appears to be a sewer backup is actually just a single drain clog. Hair, grease and foreign objects can get stuck in individual sink, tub or toilet drains and block the flow of water. The best way to address this is with a drain auger or rooter, which can break up and remove the clog.

It’s also a good idea to have your sewer lines cleared every six to 10 years. Professionals can use a camera to look for cracks or damage, then clean and snake the lines to prevent future blockages. Homeowners can also help by not placing tree roots in or near the sewer lines, installing an exterior sewer cleanout and avoiding putting fat, grease and oils down the drains. You should also avoid connecting downspouts, french drains and sump pumps to the sanitary sewer line. These additional lines can cause clogs and even flood your home.