Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Tureks Plumbing Services’

Is Trenchless Sewer Replacement For Me?

Wednesday, September 16th, 2020
Is Trenchless Sewer Replacement Right for My Home - Tureks Plumbing

Is Trenchless Sewer Replacement For Me?

As we became more industrialized and people moved to urban areas, sewer lines quickly became integral to everyday life. The system of sewer lines crisscrossing the country transports sewage from residential and commercial properties to disposal or treatment facilities, allowing us to live clean, healthy lives. And like most systems that are used consistently, they require constant maintenance and repair to make sure they run effectively. 

If you are a homeowner in Appleton Wisconsin, it’s your responsibility to make sure your sewer line is in good shape, with help from Turek’s Plumbing Services. It is the largest drain in your home, and if you don’t practice regular plumbing maintenance, any problems that aren’t addressed in time can lead to some pretty hefty repair costs. Unfortunately, conventional sewer pipe in Appleton, WI is usually slow and disruptive, especially if the sewer lines are buried deep. Additionally, it’s generally difficult to predict the actual price as the cost of parts and labor varies with each client. 

Enter trenchless sewer line replacement, an alternative repair technique that doesn’t require plumbers in Appleton, Wisconsinto dig up your lawn to get at the pipes in need of repair. Simply put, it means doing repairs without extensive digging. It allows emergency plumbers in Appleton, Wisconsin, to do sewer line pipe repair without digging trenches and disrupting your day-to-day activities. So what problems may require trenchless sewer line repair?

Common Types of Sewer Problems

Homeowners in Appleton Wisconsin should be on the lookout for:

  • Tree roots – If you have mature trees on your property, especially close to the sewer lines, their roots may infiltrate the line, causing extensive damage over time.
  • Blockages can be a result of grease or some other material restricting water flow.
  • Broken collapsed or cracked pipes, especially due to shifting or frozen soil.
  • Pipe corrosion or deterioration. This is more common in older pipes that aren’t made from PVC.
  • Belied pipes, where a section of piping has fallen into the ground, creating an area where waste material converges. 
  • Leaking joints caused by broken seals between pipes. This allows water to escape into the area surrounding the pipe. 

Trenchless Pipe Repair in Appleton, WI

If you are experiencing any of the plumbing problems described above, call a plumber in Appleton Wisconsin. Although most of these issues can be easily fixed through conventional pipe repair, no one wants the big mess a trench will create in their yard, and that’s where trenchless sewer repair done by Tureks Plumbing Services comes in. A trenchless sewer line can be put in place to replace an existing sewer line in three ways:

Pipe Bursting

It is used to replace brittle pipes like clay, cement, asbestos, concrete, and cast iron, says McQuillan Bros, an HVAC and plumbing company in Minneapolis. Two processes occur simultaneously: A static or dynamic head inserted into the host pipe is used to fragment the existing pipe, and an expander cone pushes the fragment out. At the same time, a new pipe attached to the back of the static head is laid out as the old pipe fragments are pushed out.

Pipe Splitting

They are usually used to replace ductile pipes like steel, plastics, and ductile iron by cutting them into segments using an internal head with cutter blades. A new pipe attached to the back of the cutting head is simultaneously laid out in the same alignment as the original pipe.

Internal Point Repair Appleton, WI

Internal point repair in Appleton, Wisconsin uses fiberglass to repair damaged pipes. The affected pipe is first cleaned to remove any tree roots, debris, or other possible obstructions. A camera is used to inspect the pipe to pinpoint the problem area. Then a pneumatic packer pulls structural fiberglass impregnated with resin inside the pipe. Once it is in place, the pneumatic packer inflates the fiberglass, positions it over the problem area, and allows it set.

Pipe bursting employs three methods: pneumatic, hydraulic, and static pull. Static pull uses a constant pull force to break the old pipe while pneumatic and hydraulic pull uses dynamic force. The method your plumber in Appleton Wisconsin uses will depend on:

  • Soil conditions
  • Groundwater conditions
  • The type of new pipe
  • The degree of upsizing required
  • The type of pipe being replaced
  • The depth of the pipe
  • Availability of the required equipment

Trenchless pipe repair in Appleton, WI, is a great solution for most of the plumbing problems. It allows your plumber in Appleton, Wisconsin, to discreetly fix plumbing issues without ripping up your lawn and disrupting your normal day-to-day activities. What’s more, it takes only a couple of hours, compared to the day or two it takes conventional pipe repair in Appleton WI, and your plumber will be out even before you know it. If you aren’t sure whether your property is suitable for trenchless pipe repair in Appleton WI, contact Turek’s Plumbing Service for a consultation.

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5 Bad Habits That Could Ruin Your Bathroom Plumbing

Wednesday, June 24th, 2020

If you would like to take the preservation of the plumbing system of your home to a whole new level, you have to shine a light on your habits and drop those that are bad while maintaining those that support the service life of a plumbing system. In this blog post, we look at some of the bad habits that could ruin bathroom plumbing in your Appleton, Wisconsin home.

Taking Long, Hot Showers

What? Yes, that long, hot shower that you take to reinvigorate your body and mind after a long day at work isn’t doing the plumbing system any favors.

How does this happen? The specialists at Turek’s Plumbing Services explain that even with proper ventilation, hot showers have a knack for making moisture (or steam in this case) to access every nook, cranny and crevice in the bathroom.

As you may already know, warmth and dampness are the perfect combo for the growth of mold, so your long, hot showers are paving the way for a mold problem to fester in your bathroom.

We at Turek’s Plumbing Services know the immense benefits of taking a hot shower, so we will not recommend that you kick them to the curb. Instead, we advise that you take shorter hot showers (not exceeding 10 minutes), ensure there’s as much ventilation in the bathroom as possible, and avoid cranking up the temperature of the water too high.

Letting Hair Buildup

The reason why most plumbing clogs occur in the shower and bathroom sink is largely because of hair. If the hair falling into the bathroom drains isn’t removed periodically, it will accumulate to a level that will block the flow of water through the drain.

If the blockage isn’t fixed, you may end up with a burst pipe. Bathroom remodel professionals in Appleton, WI therefore suggests that you use a clothes hanger to extract the hair that gets into the drains so that no buildup is allowed in there. This proactive step will save you from making so many service calls to Appleton Wisconsin plumbers.

Leaving Standing Water on the Bathroom Floor

If you wouldn’t leave standing water on your kitchen floor, why would you leave it on the bathroom floor? Standing water can damage and warp bathroom flooring, and this in turn can compromise the plumbing components underneath the affected sections of the flooring.

The resultant damage caused by standing water in your bathroom is unlikely to be covered by your home insurance policy, so not only are you going to feel the pinch in your pocket, but you also risk slipping and falling as you walk on that wet floor.

At Turek’s Plumbing Services, we recommend that you buy a bigger shower mat or rug so that the problem of standing water is no more.

Neglecting Water Backups

Does water back up or flow slowly through the toilet or shower drain? Take action immediately so that you fix this problem in its early stages.

For example, if the slow drainage is due to trapped hair, remove the drain cover and use a straightened hanger with a hook at its end to extract the trapped hair.

Similarly, if you notice mineral build ups on the showerhead, Sacramento, CA plumbers suggest that you rub vinegar or shampoo on that spot. The mineral deposits will be gone and your bathroom plumbing will be free from a potential defect.

Leaving Damp Materials

Mold thrives in moist environments that have access to the light, and that is exactly what your damp towels and loofahs provide. 

If you are in the habit of using a towel and then dumping it on the floor or in the hamper, then know that you are making it easy for mold and bacteria to find a haven in your bathroom.

It is therefore advisable for you to hang up your towel to dry after using it, and place your loafers in a well-ventilated spot so that they can dry as well. Replacing the loofahs periodically is also a good practice to develop since you will protect your health and the plumbing system from being infiltrated by the microbes growing on these moist items.

At Turek’s Plumbing Services, we know it can be very difficult to break a bad habit just as it is difficult to maintain a good one. That is why we offer our services to homeowners in Appleton, Wisconsin. We use our routine service calls as an opportunity to point out any habits that seem to be compromising the plumbing system so that the needed changes can be made. Remember, our aim is to give you information to help you minimize plumbing problems so that you only call us to fix the issues that you cannot address on your own. Contact Appleton, WI plumbers today and join our growing list of happy homeowners!

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How To Properly Clean Your Sink Drains

Wednesday, June 10th, 2020
Properly Clean Sink Drain- Turek's Plumbing

While you may think that your bathroom is spotlessly clean, the odors from the sink may send a contrary message. Those smells may be due to the different items, such as hair and soap residues, which gradually build up inside the drain. If these aren’t cleaned out periodically, they can accumulate to a level that results in clogs within the system. Follow the recommendations provided below by Tureks Plumbing Services, a plumbing company in Appleton, WI, to easily keep the sink drains clean.

Remove Debris on a Weekly Basis

Prevention has always been better than cure, and that’s why we at Turek’s Plumbing Services recommend that you get into a weekly habit of getting rid of debris from sink drains. Do this by removing the adjustable metal stopper and clean as far inside the drain as you can access. Clean the stopper itself as well so that it is free from debris buildups.

Use an Appropriate Drain Cleaner

Ask any Fox Valley plumber and they will caution you against using corrosive cleaning products when cleaning sink drains. This is because those corrosive products are dangerous not just for the plumbing pipes but the septic system as well.

To kill the bacteria responsible for the unwanted smells you notice, pick a biodegradable and non-corrosive pipe cleaner. Use this product as directed on the label, but in any event no more than once a month.

Turek’s Plumbing Services cautions against using antibacterial products or bleach to clean sink drains. These will harm the pipes and sewer system.

Unclog the Sink

You can use one or more of the four steps below to unclog sink drains without calling a Fox Valley plumber for help:

Use Boiling Water

Take about half a gallon of boiling water and pour it down the drain. Many of the clogs in sink drains are due to the accumulation of soap residues and some solids, such as hair, trapped in the caked residues.

For this reason, plumbing companies in Orange County, assure you that the hot water will break up many of those clogs and they will flow down the drain. 

Plunge the Drain

Tureks Plumbing Services strongly suggests that you select a plunger that can form a seal on the opening of the drain. If you aren’t sure that you have the right plunger, ask a plumber to recommend a product.

Plunge the drain five to six times while the hot water is still slowly making its way down the clogged drain. The pressure created will expedite the process of breaking up the clog.

Use Baking Soda and White Vinegar

To use this method, plumbers in Sacramento, CA from Gilmore Heating, Air & Plumbing recommend that you start by pouring approximately half a gallon of water down the drain. Wait for several minutes and plunge the drain several times to break up as much of the clog as possible.

Thereafter, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain and leave it to sit for several minutes. Now take a cup of white vinegar and pour it down the drain as well. Cover the opening of the drain immediately so that as the mixture of vinegar and baking soda foams, it is forced to move through the clog and break it up in order to flow down the drain.

Leave this mixture to sit inside the drain for at least an hour. Thereafter, get another half a gallon of hot water and rinse the drain with it. One additional reason for using vinegar is that it will remove the odors in the drain.

Snake the Sink Drain

Some deposits in the sink drain may be so stubborn that the methods above may be unable to dislodge them. For such clogs, you may need to snake the drain.

Visit a local hardware store or talk to a Fox Valley plumber to secure a drain snake. Keep inserting and retrieving the snake until the drain snake can no longer find any more debris to remove from the drain. When you get to this point, pour some water down the drain and confirm that the sink drain is now working properly.

The measures above will generally be sufficient to keep your sink drains clean and clear. However, some homeowners may notice that the drains keep developing clogs from time to time despite every effort made to prevent such an occurrence. In such a case. Contact Turek’s Plumbing Services for professional advice. Our experienced plumbers will inspect the drains and recommend the best course of action. For example, you may need to replace the old plumbing pipes with plastic ones which are less prone to clog formation. Contact us today and start enjoying trouble-free drains!

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How To Reduce Water Waste

Wednesday, June 3rd, 2020
Reduce Water Waste - Turek's Plumbing

When every penny counts, it is wise to look for every opportunity to conserve the resources at your disposal. One of the ways to do that is by reducing water waste. Here are some easy water-saving tips recommended by the experienced plumbers at Turek’s Plumbing Services, a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Whole-House Water Conservation

According to the EPA (Environment Protection Agency), the average American home loses about 10,000 gallons of water each year to dripping faucets, pipe leaks and constantly running toilets.

Fox Valley plumbers say this is literally money down the drain, so your water conservation efforts should begin by addressing these issues. The best way to fix leaks, constantly running toilets and other plumbing system problems that waste water is by asking a plumber to perform annual maintenance on the plumbing system.

The professional will identify all the leaks and repair them so that you can stop losing water and money on a daily basis.

Water Conservation In The Bathroom

More than half of all the water used in your home is used in the bathroom. Read that again, and let it sink in. The greatest water waste reduction dividends are therefore likely to be registered when you pay attention to the way you use water in your bathroom.

For starters, upgrading to the latest low-flow toilets can save you up to 20% of the water you currently use, according to Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial renovation contractor. These savings will increase even further if you get a dual flush toilet so that you can use less water when flushing liquid waste and a little more water when flushing solids.

Rather than take a bath, opt for a short shower in order to reduce your water waste. While at it, a low-flow showerhead recommended by your Fox Valley plumber will cut your water use by half.

It is also a good habit to turn the faucet off while you shave or brush. Train your family members to adopt this habit as well so that you all work as a team to reduce water waste.

Water Conservation In The Kitchen

According to Appleton, WI kitchen remodel experts, washing dishes by hand uses a lot more water than using the dishwasher. It is therefore prudent for you to wait and run a full load in the dishwasher instead of a few dishes at a time.

Additionally, dishwashers have become so efficient and effective that you no longer need to pre-rinse your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. The water you use to pre-rinse will have been wasted.

In contrast, scraping off food particles from plates and dishes before putting them in the dishwasher will conserve water.

While on the subject of scraping dishes, put the scraps on your compost heap instead of dumping them in the garbage disposal says Sacramento, CA plumbing company, Gilmore Heating, Air, & Plumbing. Appleton plumbers say this will save the water that would have been used to clear the garbage disposal of these food scraps.

Saving Water In Your Lawn Or Garden

You also need to shine a light on how you use water outdoors if you are to plug all the points at which water is wasted.

For example, at what time do you water your garden or lawn? Any Fox Valley plumber you ask will tell you that it is best to water gardens or lawns early in the morning or late in the afternoon to save water since minimal evaporation will take place at that time.

Our friends at McQuillan Bros, an HVAC, and plumbing company in Minnesota, recommend aerating the lawn periodically so that more water can be soaked up instead of running off each time it rains or you water that lawn. In this way, you will reduce the amount of water needed to keep the garden or lawn thriving.

You can also start harvesting rain water in a rain barrel or any other available receptacle. This water can be used to water the lawn and your garden, thereby reducing your water bill. Your plants and grass will thrive as you give them this rainwater that is free from chlorine. Talk about killing two birds with one stone!

Saving water starts with knowing all the ways in which you have been wasting water on your property. Contact Turek’s Plumbing to perform a water use audit in your home. Our experienced plumbers will then recommend all the cost-effective ways through which you can reduce water waste and keep water bills affordable. Give us a call today!

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Our Favorite Tankless Water Heater

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2020

Favorite Tankless Water Heater - Rinnai tankless water heater - Tureks Plumbing ServicesOur Favorite Tankless Water Heater

We live in a world where technology is constantly changing for the better. So, there is no reason why you should remain stuck with an aging water heater that is not only inefficient and space-wasting but also doesn’t give you the hot water you need. Plumbing professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services would like to introduce to you our favorite tankless water heater, the Rinnai tankless water heater. This best-in-class appliance is our bestseller for a number of reasons as discussed below.

Endless Hot Water

A Rinnai hot water heater gives you the freedom to enjoy as much hot water as you want so that you don’t have to choose between using the dishwasher, doing your laundry or taking a hot shower. 

A Rinnai water heater heats water as you use it, so you can be sure that you will not run out of hot water simply because the tank of your traditional heater has run out of hot water. Tureks Plumbing Services knows how important time and convenience is to you, and that is why we offer you the best hot water heater that will provide hot water conveniently to you and your entire household.

No More Waiting for Hot Water

Anyone who has used a traditional water heater knows how frustrating it can be to open a faucet and wait for several minutes before hot water starts flowing through. This is particularly noticeable on chilly days.

Appleton home remodel contractors say that the water losses that occur as you wait for hot water to start flowing can add up to thousands of gallons of water each year. That is money down the drain, literally. 

With a Rinnai hot water heater, you get hot water just seconds after opening a faucet. This is a huge departure from the minutes required before you can get hot water from your traditional water heater. You will save time and money after installing a Rinnai water heater in your home.

Minimal Space is Required

Another critical reason why Tureks Plumbing Services is comfortable recommending Rinnai tankless water heaters to homeowners in Appleton, WI is that these water heaters are space-savers.

Traditional water heaters have huge tanks that occupy a lot of space. We all know that space in a home comes at a premium. So, any area occupied by the traditional water heater is space that you cannot use.

Rinnai tankless water heaters are designed for space economy, and they are typically the size of a small suitcase. Furthermore, the experienced installers at Tureks Plumbing Services assure you that Rinnai tankless water heaters are all designed to be mounted on walls. This allows them to be at home in the most compact of locations within your home.

What this compact design means is that less space will be taken up by the water heater.

Affordability and Efficiency Savings

There is no smarter choice when it comes to the supply of hot water in your home other than upgrading to a tankless water heater. This is because Rinnai tankless water heaters are gas-powered but produce less CO2 than others on the market. Their high efficiency also means that they qualify for tax credits in many jurisdictions.

Tureks Plumbing Services gladly helps all clients to benefit from any energy rebates available. This results in our clients making significant savings on the cost of acquiring the latest Rinnai water heaters. 

Additionally, the tankless design of the Rinnai water heaters means that the operational costs of using the heater will reduce. For example, traditional water heaters keep reheating the water inside the tank to ensure a ready supply of hot water. This constant reheating wastes energy and your monthly energy bill will be higher as a result. This wasted energy is all saved when you switch to a tankless water heater from Rinnai. By only heating water when you need it, tankless water heaters from Rinnai ensure that you get the biggest bang for your buck.

Reliable Tankless Water Heater

There is no reason why you should settle for anything but the best for your business and home. That is why we bring to you Rinnai, the bestselling hot water heater in North America. 

The experts at Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial construction company, agree that when you install one of these tanks in your commercial or residential property, you will get more than three decades of innovation, product integrity, and support.

Additionally, Wi-Fi functionality means that Tureks Plumbing Services can keep an eye on the efficiency of the water heater. As well as quickly correct any defects that threaten to affect the performance of the appliance. 

Durability You Can Trust

Rinnai tankless water heaters aren’t only designed to be very reliable. They’re also made to last. These tankless water heaters are built to last nearly twice as long as the traditional water heaters that have tanks.

You will also enjoy a generous warranty when you acquire and install your tankless water heater through Tureks Plumbing Services. 

As you can see, you have every reason to get a Rinnai tankless water heater for your home or business. Rest assured that Tureks Plumbing Services has the best water heater there is. Contact us today, and our experienced technicians will assess your water heater needs.

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8 Bathroom Remodel Trends for 2020

Wednesday, April 15th, 2020

bathroom remodel trends for 2020 - Tureks Plumbing ServicesBathroom Remodel Trends for 2020

2020 is well underway, and you may be wondering what bathroom remodel trends are likely to define this year and beyond as you plan to remodel your bathroom. At Tureks Plumbing Services, we make it our duty to keep homeowners in Appleton, WI informed about the latest home improvement trends. Here are the key trends that we have observed in 2020. Use this information to select the trend that appeals to you. You can even combine different trends so that you fully express your style!

Bathroom Remodel Trends: Biophilic Design

The name of this trend may sound alien, but there is nothing alien about it. It simply refers to putting you in touch with nature, and more bathroom remodels are taking advantage of this approach.

The bathroom renovation experts at Tureks Plumbing Services suggest that you can utilize this trend simply by adding as many plants as possible to the décor of your remodeled bathroom. Alternatively, you can opt for materials that mimic nature, such as green paint that lends a natural look to your bathroom. 

In terms of lighting, a skylight can go a long way towards bringing a touch of nature into your bathroom, and so can a dimmer which allows you to adjust the lighting inside the bathroom to mirror what is outdoors.

Bathroom Remodel Trends: Be Colorful

“Bold colors are back,” said our commercial construction friends at Headwaters Construction Inc. They add, “You can go with this trend if you aren’t one to shy away from making a bold statement in the design of your home or commercial building.” We get that bright colors can sometimes be overwhelming. Instead of using bright paint, you could also use colorful appliances or artwork to help make the room pop.

Bathroom Remodel Trends: Terrazzo Still Reigns

Terrazzo, which is a mixture of cement, marble, and natural stones, staged a comeback years ago, and it appears to be here to stay. This versatile material is most likely to be found on bathroom walls and floors, and even on sinks.

Home remodel experts in Appleton, WI also adds that Terrazzo can last a long time. So, it is best to opt for variants that look like natural stone. Select Terrazzo with smaller fragments and not larger ones so that your renovated bathroom can have a timeless look.

Bathroom Remodel Trends: Open Shower Design

Open Italian showers are making a huge mark in 2020, particularly versions that are fully equipped and are multi-functional. For example, the shower can have an integrated misting system and an anti-fog mirror. Professionals from Tureks Plumbing Services have also seen many bathrooms in which the tub and shower are both located in the same area!

However, our bathroom renovation experts notice that some functional challenges can arise when you place the bathtub and shower in the same open area. For example, soap residues from the shower can reach the tub and vice versa, so the demands of keeping a clean bathroom increase significantly when these two features are close to each other. It is, therefore, best to weigh this consideration before going with the open shower design.

Bathroom Remodel Trends: Console-Style Vanity

The era of massive bathroom furnishings seems to be coming to an end. We see more console-style vanities in not just smaller bathrooms but larger ones as well. This trend is especially ideal for smaller bathrooms since it can create an illusion of spaciousness.

Bathroom remodeling experts in Appleton, WI, suggests that to maintain the minimalist feel of this design, take any extra materials, such as perfumes, out of the bathroom so that only the essentials are left.

Bathroom Remodel Trends: Refined Tiling

Tiles that look extravagant are so yesterday. In their place, tiles with character or detail are the new thing in 2020. Price is no longer the determinant of what makes a tile trendy or nice. So, keep your eye on how a given designer has given life to a particular tile. While selecting refined tiling, remember less is more. Instead, Tureks Plumbing Services recommends that you opt for elegant tiles that are likely to retain their appeal for years to come. For example, flashy tiles are a more significant fashion risk when compared to light or dark tones that remain appealing for longer.

Bathroom Remodel Trends: Linear or Minimalist Bathroom Lighting

This year is going to see linear or minimalist lighting taking bathroom remodels by storm. This particular trend has gained more traction because it enables other bathroom fixtures to grab the intention. 

Bathroom renovation experts suggest that you install light strips between walls. If not, consider getting a mirror that comes integrated with its own lighting system.

Bathroom Remodel Trends: Standalone Tubs and Sinks

It is incredible to see the nearly limitless ways in which designers can make a tub or sink pop. Inspiration comes thick and fast from all sorts of places, such as Japanese bathrooms, artisanal touches, and asymmetrical shapes.

Depending on the available space within your bathroom, you may decide to implement this trend by installing the standalone sink or bathtub. Our experienced professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services can also share their expert opinion.

As you can see, the options are nearly endless. As with any remodeling project, starting with a solid plan goes a long way. We know that getting all the decisions right can be a difficult task for any homeowner. That’s why we at Tureks Plumbing Services are putting our considerable training and experience at your disposal. Our home remodeling professionals are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us for bathroom renovation services in Appleton, WI.

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Your Kitchen Remodel Guide

Wednesday, April 8th, 2020

kitchen remodel guide tureks plumbing servicesTureks Plumbing Kitchen Remodel Guide

While there are too many horror stories of kitchen remodels gone wrong, yours doesn’t have to be the same experience. In this article, we will focus on how you can hire the best professionals for the job, and how you can keep costs affordable as your dream kitchen sees the light of day. These two aspects are two of the main issues many homeowners face. So, we hope you will find this handy guide helpful in navigating your way through the remodel maze.

Finding the Best Kitchen Remodel Contractor

As already mentioned, finding the best contractor to undertake the kitchen remodel project is one of the most difficult tasks. So, many homeowners have had their fingers burned by the wrong choice of a general contractor. Here are three things that Tureks Plumbing Services, a kitchen remodel company in Appleton WI, wants you to keep in mind during your kitchen remodel.

What matters is their most recent job.

As you vet contractors, it is important for you to pay attention to their most recent projects. This will give you a more accurate depiction of what each contractor is capable of. You wouldn’t want a contractor who hasn’t worked on a kitchen remodel project in over five years. It’s important to find someone who has the right skillset. At Tureks Plumbing Services, we are happy to provide recent references on what we’ve been working on. In this way, it will be easier for each potential client to be sure that the team that worked on a job they have admired is still available to handle the kitchen remodel.

The Best Contractors Tend to Require Some Wait Time.

You may get lucky and find the best contractor to take on your kitchen remodel. However, the reality tends to be that you often have to wait so that the contractor fits you into their schedule. This is because the very best ones are booked solid. So, being in a hurry to get started on your project will deny you the opportunity of working with the best there is. It is, therefore, helpful for you to work within the schedule of the best Appleton kitchen remodel contractor rather than trying to force that contractor to fit into yours.

What to Ask References

As an inexperienced homeowner, you may not know what questions to ask the recent references that have been provided by a home remodeling contractor that you would like to hire.

Tureks Plumbing Services recommends that you ask those references about the contractor’s work ethics, such as whether they always arrived in time to oversee the work done by the subcontractors. 

Communication is important. Ask references about their experience with the home remodeling company. You’ll know how well the contractor worked start to finish. Ultimately, it comes down to money. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial construction company, adds that you should be familiar with your contractor’s reputation, regardless if it’s residential or commercial remodeling.

Hire the general contractor you feel comfortable letting into your home.

How to Keep the Kitchen Remodel Project Affordable

At Tureks Plumbing Services, we know that one of the biggest challenges that homeowners have is to keep kitchen remodel costs affordable while getting their dream kitchen. Here are some measures that we usually recommend to cut remodeling costs:

  • Energy efficiency. Pay close attention to the energy efficiency of the appliances you are comparing and select the one with the highest Energy Star rating. This will ensure that you conserve energy for all the years that the appliance will be in use.
  • Ease of use. An appliance that isn’t easy to use is likely to remain unused, or you will curse each time you struggle to utilize that appliance. Tureks Plumbing Services, therefore, advises that you scrutinize the ease-of-use features of different appliances before you select one. For example, how conveniently can you load that dishwasher you want to buy? How accessible are the controls of the refrigerator?
  • Safety features. Safety is a big concern in kitchens, so don’t forget this consideration as you compare different brands and models of appliances. 

Others Ways to Save on Your Kitchen Remodel

  • Rethinking how you organize items in the kitchen so that you efficiently use your space
  • Have a general idea of what you want your new kitchen to look like before you invite contractors to bid for the work. In this way, you can compare prices. You’ll notice that the most competitive contractor who will deliver exactly what you want at an affordable price.
  • Being clear on what you want before the project begins. Each time you change your mind about the design or materials, you are forced to spend more money. This can quickly throw your budget out of whack.
  • Hiring competent professionals, such as Tureks Plumbing Services, to take charge of the kitchen remodel project in Appleton, WI. Experienced professionals can help you to keep costs affordable in different ways, such as sourcing material.

Undertaking a kitchen remodel project in Appleton, WI, can be a daunting task for many homeowners but doesn’t need to be the case if you follow this kitchen remodel guide. You can also hire Tureks Plumbing Services to execute that project. Contact us, and our seasoned professionals will work with you from the design of the project to its completion when your brand new kitchen is handed to you.

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Choosing the Best Kitchen Countertops

Wednesday, April 1st, 2020

Choosing the Best Kitchen Countertops - Kitchen remodel Appleton WIKitchen Remodeling: Choosing the Best Kitchen Countertops

One way to transform your kitchen in a big way is by replacing your kitchen countertops. Stop to think about how much wear and tear your countertops go through. No wonder there are so many stains and scratches. So, now that you know your countertops need some love, you’re probably wondering what the next steps are to replacing them. Let’s start off with fun stuff: choosing the best kitchen countertops. Yes, choosing the best kitchen countertops can be a daunting task because there are so many options to choose from! Don’t worry, home remodel experts at Tureks Plumbing are here to help!

Quartz Countertops

Quartz closely resembles stone but isn’t as demanding to maintain as natural stone is. This type of material is a combination of different minerals, resins, and colors. For this reason, you can find quartz countertops in different colors or patterns that closely mimic marble or granite. Home remodel contractors in Appleton, WI add that marble resists abrasive pads, stains, serrated knives, and hot pans very well. Quartz countertops make an excellent choice for your kitchen since the countertop will last longterm. 

However, the corners and the edges of this type of countertop are prone to chipping, and you will need expert help to fix such damage. Tureks Plumbing Services, the best kitchen remodel company in Appleton WI, recommends that you select a countertop that comes with rounded edges to reduce the likelihood that the edges will chip.

Granite Countertops

The beauty of granite countertops is that each slab will be unique from all others, so you can be sure that any granite countertop that you buy and install will be one of a kind. Expect to pay more for those countertops whose vein patterns or colors are even rarer. 

Granite has made a name for itself as a material that does a good job of resisting scratches, cuts, and heat. According to home remodel experts in Appleton, WI, granite countertops with a matte or polished finish perform even better in terms of resisting stains.

Nevertheless, you will need to regularly reseal the granite countertop if it is to retain its stain-resistant attributes. Tureks Plumbing Services also cautions that granite countertops are prone to chipping on the edges, so you are better off selecting one that has round edges to reduce this risk. If the countertop chips, ask a professional to fix the damage.

Limestone, Marble and Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is rarer than granite, so that alone makes this an attractive material if you would like your kitchen to be really unique. Kitchen remodel companies in Appleton, WI, explain that soapstone is also excellent at resisting being damaged by heat. If the countertop is scratched, the damage can be fixed by sanding the affected part and then applying mineral oil there.

Marble and limestone are classic materials that have stood the test of time as countertops, so you won’t go wrong if you opt for them. Additionally, limestone looks like natural stone, although these countertops don’t have the veining or grain patterns of other forms of natural stone, such as granite. Marble and limestone also resist heat damage. Headwaters Construction Inc, a commercial construction company, adds that marble countertops are by far the most popular choice. 

As for the drawbacks, soapstone can be scratched, become nicked, or cut easily. Additionally, some stains are hard to wash off the surface of the countertop. This shortcoming is also present in marble and limestone. Marble is also particularly prone to heat damage, according to the kitchen remodel experts at Tureks Plumbing Services.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops have come a long way over the years, and they are more attractive than they were in the past. Many kitchen remodel contractors say that laminate countertops are one of the most affordable options, and they are easy to install, so you may think of them if your budget is tight.

Laminate countertops can also resist stains and heat damage. However, laminate can suffer permanent damage if cut directly, so the kitchen renovation professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services recommend that you use a cutting board to prevent such damage.

Solid Surfacing

Solid surfacing is available in a huge array of patterns and colors. This material can be put to use on the backsplash, sink, and counters. It creates a seamless look since the joints between different segments are almost invisible. 

Solid surfacing is also resistant to the majority of stains, while small nicks and scratches are easy to repair. Make sure you use a cutting board to protect your countertops.

Recycled Glass Countertops

When you want a countertop that is fun and looks contemporary, then go for a recycled glass countertop that has large shards. If you prefer a more muted look, then opt for a countertop that is made from ground glass. Most recycled glass countertops have the ability to resist heat, scratches, stains, and cuts. 

However, the experts at Tureks Plumbing Services have observed that the quality of these countertops tends to vary from one manufacturer to another, so you need to do your due diligence before selecting a product.

Bucher Block

This material can make your kitchen look warm and cozy, and it is also easy to install or repair. Kitchen remodel professionals point out that different finishes come with their own pros and cons.

For example, penetrating oil finishes reduce the stain resistance of the material while varnish increases stain resistance. You should carefully weigh the available options and select what will address your specific needs.

As you can see, there is generally there’s not too much of a difference between countertops. If you are considering a kitchen remodel, contact Tureks Plumbing Services. Our home remodel contractors are waiting to help you through the process.

Interested in our home remodeling projects? See what projects we’ve been working on.

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Do’s and Don’ts for a Shower Remodel

Wednesday, March 18th, 2020

shower remodel Appleton WI

Shower Remodel in Appleton, WI

Figuring out how to make your bathroom remodel dreams come true can be a challenge. Your main concerns would be, what materials to use, what style you want, or what colors would look best. You could also be on the fence about hiring a home remodeling contractor or doing it by yourself. 

Unfortunately, there’s no magic formula for remodeling your shower. But there are a few tips that you can follow which will make your task a whole lot easier. There are some don’ts as well that you should avoid.

Do’s for a Shower Remodel

Keep Maintenance in Mind

Ask yourself how much maintenance am I willing to endure? Many people don’t realize how frustrating cleaning tile grout is. We suggest opting out of this style so you can enjoy a low maintenance shower. 

Take Your Time Deciding the Materials 

If you’re remodeling your shower, you might as well do what you want to it, right? Of course, you should. Professionals recommend weighing out all the options, including the materials you’ll use. You may like something initially, but you may change your mind after it’s too late.

Ask Your General Contractor

Before you hire the contractor to remodel your shower, you’ll need to know the skill level they have. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the project. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial building company in CA, recommend asking the following questions: For example, who will be managing the project? Who will be doing the hard labor? What materials will be purchased? How much does the shower remodel cost? The more questions you ask, the better you will feel about letting someone else do the project. 

Don’ts for a Shower Remodel

Don’t be a Pushover

Sometimes taking on projects can be stressful. If you choose the right contractor, they will do everything they can to provide the best experience possible. Your contractor should never push you into a home remodel design that you don’t like. At Tureks Plumbing, we love working closely with our clients to bring their home remodel dreams to life. If you are looking for a bathroom remodeling or kitchen remodeling company in Appleton, WI, contact Tureks Plumbing! We’re happy to help you in any way we can!

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Spring Cleaning for Drains and Sewers

Wednesday, March 11th, 2020

Spring Cleaning for Drains and Sewers - Tureks Plumbing ServicesAs spring approaches, homeowners can’t help but think about spring cleaning from purging the garage to decluttering drawers. One aspect of spring cleaning that people tend to forget is the drains. Like everything else, your home’s drains also need to be cleaned.

Plumbing professionals highly recommend having your drain cleaned around this time of the year. You need to go through your home and mark every drain from the sink to bathtubs. Cleaning the drains will help decrease the chances of clogs. The following tips will help you take the right step to prevent your drains from getting clogged:

Start with the Kitchen

Your kitchen sink is put through a lot. All those plate scrapings going down the drain can accumulate and result in a clog. You want to make sure that when washing dishes, you throw any leftover food into the trash, no matter how small it may be. This will help prevent your kitchen drain from clogging. 

The Bathroom

The shower drain can clog up easily if you don’t take care of it. All the hair that gets caught up in it, as well as residues from shampoo and soap you use, can easily get caught up in the drain. To prevent this from happening, Sacramento HVAC company and plumbing experts recommend that you set a hair catcher on the drain, so it catches all the gunk. You won’t have to worry about having to get it cleaned out of the drain due to it clogging up.

Outdoor Drains

Outdoor drains are a bit trickier as they need to be inspected properly. You need to check the roots and everything around them so you can see if the pipes are damaged or not due to them as well as check for leaks. You may want to consult the professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services to inspect the drains in your home. Not only will they inspect the drains, but they can ensure that preventative measures are taken to stop clogs. 

Should you Consider Commercial Cleaners to Clean Drains?

Commercial cleaners can help you unclog drains, but they result in more problems in the long run. First off, the cleaners don’t actually tackle the main problem causing the clog, instead act as a temporary solution. The chemicals in the cleaner are also harmful to the environment. Instead of relying on commercial cleaners, contact the best plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin, for professional plumbing services.

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