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Plumbing  /  March 16, 2023

Vancouver Bathroom Renovations: Inspect Plumbing For Spring

Inspect plumbing for spring

The fall and winter months are gruelling on your home’s plumbing system. The fluctuating temperatures affect materials in many ways, and winter temps especially can impose tremendous pressure on your system with freezing water. While the winter is hard on your system, the spring thaw is when you may need to contact plumbing services in Vancouver.

Although residents living in Vancouver don’t experience the harsh cold temperatures that other cities in Canada face, there are still weather conditions that can cause stress on pipes. When the temperatures fluctuate, you might notice small leaks or other issues with your plumbing system. It is best to hire a licensed plumber to assess your pipes and ensure they are functioning correctly.

Spring Plumbing Inspections

During the beginning weeks of spring, your pipes will expand and contract as water within the lines repeatedly freezes and thaws. The expansion and contraction, while expected, may cause hairline cracks and leaks.

Pipes can handle some temperature fluctuations, but extreme shifts are when homeowners experience significant property damage. During radical temperature changes, your plumbing system may experience burst lines, which can lead to flooding.

The best way to avoid plumbing issues is to stick to routine maintenance and inspection schedules. A professional plumber should assess your system at the change of seasons. You should also examine your plumbing several times throughout the year, paying special attention to several things.

1. Inspect the Piping System

Many homeowners think they are unqualified to assess their plumbing system. While that is true to some extent, homeowners can handle many aspects of a basic inspection.

Walk around your property, inside and out, and check the faucets, spigots, and exposed pipes. Look for signs of leaking — stains, mould, mildew, moisture, etc.

Also, check the walls and ceiling in the home. Look for stains or soft spots. Staining and texture changes can indicate a leak in the wall or ceiling.

2. Check Drainpipes and Gutters

Before the thaw, you must check the gutters and drainpipes. Snow and ice will need a path to melt and evacuate the roofline. If gutters and downspouts have clogs, the melt will overflow.

It is common for water to back up under roofing materials or flow down the structure’s face affecting the foundation. Too much moisture around the foundation can erode the soil and weaken the structure.

3. Test the Sump Pump

Sump pumps are essential to preventing interior flooding. The pump moves water from your basement to the exterior of your home. If you do not already have a sump pump, you should purchase and install one. If you do have one, be sure to test it before the spring thaw.

You can easily test your pump by slowly pouring a five-gallon bucket of water into the sump pit. The float of the pump should rise and turn the pump on. When the water pumps out, the pump should shut off. If your pump is not performing as expected, contact a licensed plumber for help.

4. Check the Entire House

While the primary purpose of a plumbing inspection is t inspect the piping and fixtures, you can take the time to assess the entire house. Look for signs of water damage and check for any roof damage as well. If possible, clear any snow off your roof to prevent issues later.

5. Review Policy Coverage

It would be best if you also took the time before the spring thaw to check your homeowner’s insurance, ensuring you’re covered in the event of flood damage. You might want to call an insurance agent to ask questions.

Professional Home Inspections

Whether you are planning on bathroom renovations or just using your house as it is, the health of the plumbing system is essential. Contact Handyman Connection to schedule an inspection with a licensed and experienced plumber.

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