Common Plumbing Terms That Can Help You

January 17th, 2017

An Introduction to Common Plumbing Terms

You do not have to be an avid DIY-er to understand the importance of learning common plumbing terms. No matter how diligent you are in keeping your home’s plumbing system well-maintained, there will come a time when you will need to call upon your plumber for help. Awareness of the most used plumbing terms will help you better understand what your plumber is doing and enable you to communicate with him more effectively.

What are these terms that homeowners should add to their vocabularies?

Aeration

Aeration is a process wherein water is mixed with air through the use of a piece of equipment known as an aerator. The goal of aeration is to release dissolved gasses and eliminate foul odors.

Air gap

The term refers to the space between a water outlet that delivers water to a plumbing fixture and the flood rim level of a receptacle like a sink or dishwasher. The primary purpose of an air gap is to prevent the cross-contamination of potable water.

Backflow

When the water flow is reversed in the plumbing system, this can create backflow. Sometimes backflow can lead to the contamination of drinking water.

Branch drain

Refers to the part of the plumbing system which leads to the main drainage line.

Check valve

This is a type of valve that ensures that the water flows toward one direction and prevents it from backflowing.

Cleanout

A cleanout is the space in a drainage line that is placed there in order to facilitate the entry of drain cleaning equipment. The drain cleaning equipment is used for clearing out drains and eliminating line blockages.

Closet auger

A closet auger is a tool which has a flexible rod with a curved end. This is used to remove clogs in toilets and obstructions in the built-in trap.

Hydro-jetting

Hydro-jetting refers to the process of using blasts of high-pressure water to clear blockages accumulated on sewage lines.

Plumber’s putty

Plumber’s putty is used by plumbers on areas which are exposed to unpressurized water. These include joints and fixture bases. It has the consistency of clay.

Shutoff valve

The shutoff valve is used to stop the flow of water toward a sink or toilet. Typically, you will find this underneath the toilet or sink.

If you are not sure what a particular term exactly means, do not hesitate to ask your Fox Cities plumber for an explanation.

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A Helpful Guide to Choosing Kitchen Cabinets

January 13th, 2017

A Guide to Choosing Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen remodeling can be fun, especially if you’re going for a completely new style that aligns with your current personal aesthetic preference. However, you need to approach the task very seriously as well because it’s important to make sure that you’re not sacrificing function for beauty.

Now, if you’re choosing kitchen cabinets to install, you need to think about this carefully; this is a piece of advice from trusted kitchen remodelers that service Applegate and Fox Valley, Wisconsin homeowners. Kitchen cabinets do not only serve as visually appealing storage for dinnerware or kitchen essentials; they are known to improve space dimensions as well.

If you have off-center built-ins in the kitchen, the strategic installation of cabinets can achieve a more balanced look for the space.

To help you choose the right kitchen cabinets to install, here is an easy guide to follow.

Take the DIY route or hire professional builders

A DIY route is advisable if you’re purchasing ready-made cabinets that you don’t intend to permanently fix to a wall. Basically, all you need to do here is to drag it to your chosen location in the kitchen. Now, if you want to fix cabinets to the wall, it’s best to let professional builders accomplish this task; ditto if you’re fitting in custom-made cabinets.

Clearly identify the cabinet design you want

Do you want framed cabinets or frameless ones? Framed cabinets are perfect if you have traditional aesthetics. Frameless cabinets are more ideal for modern and transitional designs because they have a sleek profile.

Bespoke or stock cabinets

Custom-made cabinets work best for the space you have. Opting for these can better streamline the kitchen since they will not create weird corners and awkward protrusions. They are, however, more expensive. Stock cabinets come in a variety of designs, but you need to make sure that you have the right location for them, and that you measure spaces for installation accurately so you can go with the cabinet sizes that are most appropriate to the dimensions of the space where they’ll be installed.

Study the cabinet material, especially if you’re gravitating toward stock kitchen cabinets

Of course, you need to make sure that the cabinet will be durable enough for everything that you intend to put in it. Also, the kind of material you choose can enhance the kitchen’s overall style.

Establish your budget

It’s best to work with a clear budget. This will make selection and installation a whole lot easier and organized. It can also make the process easier if there are other things that you want done in your kitchen.

Are you having trouble deciding how to move forward with your kitchen remodel? Contact the kitchen remodel pros in Fox Cities. Turek’s plumbing can answer all of the most common remodel questions.

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How to Address Low Water Pressure Issues

January 11th, 2017

low water pressureHow Should You Handle Low Water Pressure Issues?

You woke up energetic, ready to take on the day. You hop off the bed, run to the bathroom, all pumped and ready for your invigorating morning shower. You turn the shower knob… only to get water falling down in agonizingly small, slow trickles.

Low water pressure greatly reduces your daily convenience, efficiency and productivity. Since water serves a primary role in housekeeping, cleaning and personal hygiene, difficult water access can also negatively impact your health and safety. The problem can also be costly since you may be forced to rely on other products, services and additional installation, such as a new water pump, just to get the water flowing properly.

Low water pressure issues may also indicate serious problems in your plumbing and water systems. It is thus crucial to take immediate action to prevent bigger, costlier complications and to finally ensure adequate water flow in your home.

The following are some steps to take when you notice water pressure issues:

Check for leaks

The slow and scarce flow of water in your showers and faucets may be caused by a leak in your pipes. If you suspect that this is the case, turn off all taps and water-using appliances in the property. Go to your water meter to take note of the reading. Then wait for a few hours and go back to check the meter again. Compare the first and second reading to see if water use is still registering even after you have stopped using water. Call the plumber to fix the leaks.

Call your water supplier

Low water pressure may be due to an issue in the main water supply in your area. Check your water supply company’s website or call their office to confirm if there are repairs, maintenance or emergency work being conducted. Get the details on the schedule so you can plan and prepare contingency measures.

Flush mineral and debris buildup in the water mains

Another possible reason for low water pressure is the accumulation of minerals, dirt, sand and debris in your pipes and water systems. These foreign particles and pollutants can block the water flow and significantly reduce water pressure in your home. Your plumber will have the chemicals, equipment and know-how to break down and flush out the buildup.

Replace rusty pipes

If your plumbing system has been around for many years, the pipes may already be suffering from corrosion. The rust can block the smooth flow of water, making it difficult for it to reach your shower and faucets. This is a serious issue and may require complex work and the replacement of the entire system. To handle this delicate work, call your local Fox Valley plumber for help.

 

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Why Should You Choose a Tankless Water Heater?

January 9th, 2017

Tankless Water HeaterWhy Choose a Tankless Water Heater

Need a new water heater? Whether you are investing in a new one for your recently built house or thinking of replacing the current one installed in your home, there are plenty of reasons you should consider a tankless water heater installation.

More space

Using tankless water heaters, as the name implies, means that you do not have to worry about finding a space for the tank. Typically, conventional water heaters have tanks that measure 20″x13″x3″ and can thus take up a considerable amount of space in your home. Just imagine what you can do with that amount of space freed up.

Safety

If you are currently using a conventional water heater in your home, you have probably experienced being scalded with hot water at some point. That won’t happen with a tankless heater because there is no hot water stored. Instead, the hot water is processed on demand. That also means that you do not have to worry about losing hot water or waiting long to get hot water as this can be produced when you need it.

Apart from that, the risk of explosions or accidents related to steaming water are practically eliminated. Plus, you do not have to worry about pets and kids getting near a spigot. These can all give you greater peace of mind.

Reduced heating costs

A tankless water heater can allow you to reduce your water heating costs by as much as 50 percent.

With a conventional water heater, you can lose a significant amount of heat through standby losses. This occurs when the heat evaporates either through the sides of the tank or through the flue.

Less water loss

Unlike conventional water heaters, tankless systems do not leak. That means extra savings for you as there is no water wasted. Additionally, you can save more money through reduced maintenance and repair costs.

Other advantages

These water heaters are known for their superior reliability. In terms of parts, should your water heating system need parts replaced, sourcing these is fairly easy.

And even if you run two or three showers simultaneously, you do not have to worry about running out of hot water. With adequate planning, running out of hot water becomes a thing of the past.

A few downsides

However, before you commit to buying a tankless heater, you have to be aware of a few considerations. Depending on your usage, hot water may gradually emerge. If you have been accustomed to conventional water heaters, you may have to adjust a little. For one, you will need to find a reliable contractor in Fox Cities who has adequate experience in maintaining and servicing tankless heaters.

If you are thinking about installing a water heater in Fox Cities, contact the plumbing professionals at Turek’s Plumbing to schedule an estimate and learn more information!

 

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8 Bathroom Remodeling Tips Definitely Worth Trying

December 29th, 2016

Bathroom Remodeling8 Bathroom Remodeling Tips Definitely Worth Trying

Home improvement is such a big thing these days. Flip through different cable channels and you’re likely to find different shows all dedicated to helping people make over” their homes. Bathroom remodeling is one of the really popular projects that people are inspired to carry out. Since the bathroom has become every home’s own “spa,” many want to beautify it and make it even more ideal for maintaining cleanliness and experiencing relaxation.

It’s important to note, however, that this project is not as easy to pull off as it is often depicted on TV; therefore, you need to plan or prepare for it well. Here are eight bathroom remodeling tips from trusted bathroom remodelers in Fox Valley and Applegate that will help you adequately prepare and go about this task in a cost-effective and time-efficient way.

Look for Inspiration Regarding the Layout for Your Bathroom

One idea that’s quite trendy these days is making sure that the toilet is not the first thing seen once the bathroom door is opened. Find a different focal point for your bathroom and make it the most visually appealing one.

Think of a Smart Lighting Scheme

Effectively combine beauty and function for this. Also, consider new kinds of lighting implements or strategies. Candles are popular; a skylight is also a popular idea worth trying out.

Study Your Bathroom 

Study your bathroom dimensions properly (especially if you’re not resizing your bathroom) and see how your style and functional preferences will fit.

Measure, Measure, Measure

The height of your sink, toilets and even bathtubs should be measured correctly to ensure safe and comfortable use, especially if young children will be sharing the bathroom. Wrong measurements are no-no’s as they can accumulate unnecessary costs and waste a lot of time.

If You Have a Small Bathroom, Look for Innovative Ideas for Layouts or Placements so You Can Maximize Space

One great space-saving solution worth considering is a corner sink, which is actually easy to incorporate into any bathroom design.

Tiny Tubs are Actually Trendy and They are Quick to Install and Cheaper, Too (Most of the Time)

The tubs are perfect for soaking because while they’re short in length, they can be quite deep.

Pick the Right Vanity Size

You don’t want to make your bathroom too cramped because you opted for a really big vanity. You also don’t want to choose one that’s too small that it cannot accommodate the different activities you wish to carry out on it.

Get Creative With Tiles

There are so many designs and shapes to choose from. You can really create a unique bathroom by combining the shapes and designs effectively. 

Thinking about starting a bathroom remodel in Fox Valley? Contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing today for more bathroom remodeling tips!

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A Few Kitchen Remodeling Project Tips

December 27th, 2016

Kitchen Remodeling Project How to Get the Most Out of a Kitchen Remodeling Project

It is fairly easy to understand why kitchen remodeling ranks as one of the most popular home improvement projects; the modern kitchen has certainly become the centerpiece of home living. But apart from that, a well-built kitchen can increase functionality, makes it easier to entertain guests at home, and increases property value.

But remodeling a kitchen entails spending a sizeable amount of money and involves a few inconveniences while work is ongoing. It is also not unusual for property owners to encounter a wide variety of problems ranging from overspending to project timelines being continuously pushed back.

If you want to minimize (if not totally avoid) these problems and ensure that you get good returns on your investment, here are some kitchen remodeling project tips for you to consider.

Planning is Key

Planning is the most essential step that homeowners need to undertake, and yet is one that is often overlooked. Failing to plan accordingly can only lead to mishaps during the construction stage as well as overspending.

Ideally, you should spend at least half a year toward planning. This will give you enough time to decide on what you really want to achieve and prevent changing your mind mid-stream.

Think of the Remodel as an Upgrade

One critical factor that can drive up costs and extend the project timeline is changing the location of pipes and electrical systems. Additional works like tearing down walls can also lead to higher costs and extended timelines.

To streamline the kitchen remodel process, opt to keep as much of the existing kitchen in place.

Prioritize Design and Functionality

Want to avoid overspending? Choose your appliances well. One of the most common pitfalls encountered by homeowners is the temptation to upgrade appliances more than necessary. Instead of spending lavishly on new equipment and tools, think about how your remodel will improve both the design and functionality of your new kitchen.

Don’t Forget About the Lighting

Choosing the right type of lighting can instantly upgrade the look of your kitchen without needing to spend an inordinate sum of money. Additionally, the right type of light can make the kitchen look bigger and safer to work in.

There are two types of lighting to choose from. Task lighting is ideal for dark work areas. Ambient lighting, on the other hand, is primarily used to create a specific mood in an area.

Look Beyond the Price

Unless you are working on an unlimited budget, you may have some corners that you need to cut. But do not simply trade in low cost for quality and durability. Remember, you are making an investment. If you must splurge, focus on quality and durable items which will last long.

Establish a Good Working Relationship With Your Contractor

Quite simply, you need to be involved with the project if you wish to achieve great results.

From time to time, drop by during work hours and check on the project progress. This sends a signal to the contractor that you expect nothing less than quality work.

Make it easy for the contractor to contact you should any concern arise.

Set ground rules for both the contractor and his workers, especially if you are not moving out of the property while the kitchen is being rebuilt.

Are you starting a kitchen remodel in Fox Valley? Contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing and allow them to help take the stress out of your upcoming kitchen remodeling project.

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A Few Things To Think About Before Starting a Bathroom Remodel Project

December 22nd, 2016

Bathroom Remodel ProjectComponents You Should Never Forget About When Starting a Bathroom Remodel Project

The bathroom is a very important room in any house; everybody spends a good amount of time in it each day. This is the main reason why it makes complete sense that a lot of people want to make it as visually and functionally satisfying as possible.

If you’re thinking about starting a bathroom remodel project, it’s important to plan this carefully. You need to make sure that your normal routines won’t get too disrupted by the project. Do determine where you will shower and perform your other hygiene practices while your bathroom is getting a makeover.

As for the project itself, plan how to make it as cost- and time-efficient as possible. For this, trusted bathroom remodelers in Applegate and Fox Valley have rounded up below the components you need to consider when carrying out a bathroom remodel project.

Budget

You need to establish how much money you’re willing to spend in order to achieve the new look and level of function you want for the room. Having a clear budget for the project will bring better focus to your shopping, and at the same time, it will allow you to get a better sense of how much time you need for the job, and even who to hire for the job.

Schedule

Study how much time is needed for the job and when to carry out the project; also, expect delays. A Wisconsin-based plumbing company says that delays are simply the reality for every project, so take this into consideration and prepare for it the best way you can.

Problems

Clearly identify the current problems with the bathroom and create a checklist of these for your remodelers so they can tackle them one by one. Doing this will ascertain that the project will be carried out in the most efficient manner.

Beauty and Utility

Decide what new style, as well as improved functionality, you want for the bathroom. Determine the color scheme and the kinds of tiles, lighting, accessories, and other visual implements you want. As for functionality, think about the experience you want to have every time you use the bathroom, and perhaps, think about how it can boost your home’s market value, too.

Contractor

A bathroom remodel project is a highly technical job; you will need the services of a professional contractor to ensure the best results and even to stick with your budget. With a contractor, you can avoid all sorts of costly and time-consuming mistakes.

If you are thinking about starting a bathroom remodel in Fox Cities, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing to set up a consultation.

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Starting a Kitchen Remodel Project on the Right Foot

December 20th, 2016

Kitchen Remodel ProjectStarting a Kitchen Remodel Project on the Right Foot

Even the most minor of kitchen remodels entails more than a monetary investment. At the same time, you will need to invest time and deal with some hassles as you try to bring your kitchen remodel project into life.

As such, you would like to get the best returns on your investment, whatever your purpose may be for your project kitchen. In order to do that, you need to avoid one of the most common mistakes in starting a kitchen remodel project: proceeding without a plan.

As the old adage goes, failing to plan is planning to fail. Quite simply, the planning stage is an integral aspect of a kitchen remodel. Give ample time and effort toward planning so that you can get the kitchen that you have always dreamed of.

How do you do that?

Find Sources of Inspiration and Gather These

Perhaps you have unconsciously started this process by looking for inspiration from TV shows, magazines and blogs.

But in order to get the most out of this step, you will need to create your own stylebook. To do that, the first thing that you need to do is to gather all the photos which inspire you in one place. Tear out photos from magazines and print out photos you have found online.

After that, write down exactly what you like about these photos. Now, when you have found a kitchen designer and/or contractor, you can show your stylebook.

Set a Clear Goal

What’s the reason why you want to remodel your kitchen? Perhaps you want to resell your home a few years down the road. Or maybe you want to facilitate the optimal flow of traffic in your kitchen. Or maybe you simply want to turn your kitchen into a great place to entertain guests. Whatever your reasons may be, you have to be clear with your needs and wants.

Set Your Budget

Setting a budget allows you to avoid overspending. In fact, failure to set a budget is one of the leading costs of overspending on kitchen remodels. Go online and use available tools to help you figure out how much you will need for your project. From there, you can look for items on your shopping list that you might think are unnecessary or too costly. After that, you can find alternatives that will help you stay within your budget.

Create a Timeline

Apart from setting a financial budget for the project, you will also need to determine how much time you are willing to allocate for the completion of the project. Set a project timeline and talk about this when you are interviewing prospective contractors.

Be Realistic

Talk to friends or relatives who have recently had their kitchens remodeled. This will give you a fair idea of what to expect and help you avoid being blindsided by unexpected factors.

If you are thinking about starting a kitchen remodel in Fox Valley, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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What Is the Potential Cost of a Plumbing Leak?

December 15th, 2016

Cost of a Plumbing LeakCost of a Plumbing Leak | How Much Could A Potential Plumbing Leak Cost You?

Homeowners, admittedly, have a tendency to take the condition of their plumbing system for granted. As long as water flows every time they turn on the faucet or shower, there’s no need to think about the dynamics of the system of pipes behind or underneath the sinks, bathtubs and showers that make the delivery of that water possible.

As such, it’s quite common for people to miss subtle and even more obvious signs that there are problems such as a plumbing leak developing. And when these leaks remain unnoticed or ignored for some time, they can cause significant damage to the house — and this damage can potentially translate to hundreds or even thousands of dollars’ worth in repairs. That’s money that could have been used toward more important necessities, such as groceries for the family, utility bills, and school tuition.

Here, plumbing professionals in Wisconsin share a brief overview of the potential cost of a plumbing leak.

The Effect: Mold

Leaking or burst pipes that run behind your house’s walls can create moisture on the drywall. After some time, this moisture will find its way through the walls in the form of wet spots.

You may notice a particularly wet or musty smell coming from your walls; this is a sign that there’s a leak exposing your walls to moisture, and that black mold has begun to set in.

To resolve this problem, you may need to do two things:

  • Call in mold remediation experts. Their services can typically run from $500 to $3,000.
  • Have the damaged sections of your wall removed. To give you an idea of the cost (especially if large wall sections were damaged), just 100 square feet of drywall can already set you back by $400.

The Effect: Water Damage on Floors

Aside from walls, water can also cause damage to floors since it naturally flows downward—any leak will eventually collect on and underneath the floors of a kitchen or bathroom.

The signs you should look for are puddles of water on the kitchen or bathroom floor that weren’t caused by spills or splashes from taking a shower or washing dishes. Also, loose tiles around the bathtub or sink point to water damage.

To fix floors that have been damaged by water, you need to:

  • Remove and replace floorboards, plus install new tile. Professionals can charge anywhere from $1,000 to $1,500.
  • Replace hardwood floors. These cost about $12 to $30 per square foot.

The Effect: Broken Fixtures

Persistent leaks can cause components of the fixtures, such as rubber gaskets, to rot. In some cases, these damaged elements can get stuck inside the pipes and result in weakened water pressure. In general, constant leaks can lead to faulty showerheads and faucets.

You need to:

  • Replace the damaged fixtures. Depending on the brand and material you choose, kitchen and bathroom hardware can cost between $100 and $500.

The potential cost of a plumbing leak is not something that homeowners should ignore. To maintain the proper flow of water into your property and to avoid costly repairs and replacements in the future, be mindful of any signs of leaks and get in touch with your trusted Fox Valley Plumbers
 right away.

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When is the Best Time to Remodel a Bathroom?

December 13th, 2016

Bathroom Remodeling in Fox ValleyThe Best Time to Remodel Your Bathroom

A remodeling project demands efficient preparation to avoid different hassles and to control costs. So, 

Bathroom Remodeling in Fox Valley – Timing

One of the most important things to direct attention to is the time for the remodel. You need to consider when it’ll be physically and mentally convenient for you. Likewise, you have to find out if the schedule you’re setting for the project to be carried out will “help” the budget you have; that’s because there are certain times of the year wherein you can get huge discounts on products you want to use for remodeling your bathroom (or another room in your house).

According to bathroom remodelers in Fox Valley and Applegate, Wisconsin, the best time to remodel your bathroom is after Thanksgiving and right before Christmas. For a lot of homeowners, this time period doesn’t seem like a logical choice because everybody’s so busy during the holiday season. The pros, however, point out that with a clearly set plan, the project can be completed really quickly so it woudn’t be too big a hassle for families.

Best Time for Bathroom Remodel Savings

Bathroom remodelers also say that during Black Friday you could find incredible deals on decor, appliances and more! You can save as much as 70% on all of your purchases. If you buy items in bundles and you demonstrate strong haggling skills you could save even more. 

It’s worth noting as well that Christmas discount gift cards are also released on Black Friday so even if you’re unable to buy certain items on this day, you can still get good deals for items you need as Christmas approaches.

Bathroom Remodeling in Fox Valley During the Holidays 

Here’s another reason: Since you’re going to have family over during Christmas, it’s good to really make your home pretty. The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is enough for a bathroom remodel to be carried out.

It’s a good idea to schedule your bathroom remodel after Thanksgiving and just before Christmas. A bathroom remodel between the holidays really does present a lot of advantages, particularly in terms of cost. So, think about it – going with this schedule may just work out really well for you.

Are you thinking about a bathroom remodel in Fox Cities? Contact Turek’s Plumbing, and allow professionals to take on your next remodeling project.

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