Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Archive for the ‘Plumbing Pipes’ Category

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Wednesday, December 8th, 2021

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Wisconsin is known for having a lot of harsh weather and temperatures that are far below freezing. Unprotected water lines mhow to prevent frozen pipesay freeze in freezing weather, causing a major mess and expensive damage if they burst. Fortunately our plumber Appleton Wisconsin has offered a few simple steps you may take to safeguard your pipes and avoid a disaster.

How to Prevent Freezing Water Lines

What causes burst pipes? It’s not the ice in the pipe that causes it to burst, contrary to common opinion; it’s the pressure that grows. Emergency plumber Appleton Wisconsin explains, the pipe will stay intact if the water lines thaw before the pressure grows too high. However, if they remain frozen for an extended period of time, or if they freeze, thaw, and refreeze many times, the unfrozen water in the pipe will finally build up enough pressure to break the line. Thousands of gallons of water might spill out of the pipe before anybody detects the breach resulting in pipe repair Appleton WI.

Walls and Doors Should Be Insulated

Best heating company Sacramento, Gilmore Heating & Air, states that if you have a problem with frequent pipe freezes, try insulating walls and doors, adding weather stripping to doors, and making sure windows are securely sealed. The best long-term solution is to keep the room heated, even if it is more costly.

Pipes Should Be Insulated

Another alternative is to have lining pipes Appleton WI insulate water pipes in unheated areas of your house (e.g., attic, crawlspace, and garage) using foam insulating sleeves before the cold winter arrives. If you don’t have any foam covers, old towels and blankets may be used instead. Keep an eye out for any fire threats.

Heat Tape or a Pipe Heater

A water pipe heater or heat tape, which delivers heat directly to your water pipes to avoid freezing, may be installed (or hired to have it installed by a professional plumber). Most hardware shops will have these goods.

Close your garage door 

Be sure to close your garage door on cold days to offer an additional layer of protection from the cold air and wind if water lines run through your garage or the outer wall that connects to it.

Allow Warm Air to Flow Into Tight Spaces

Leave the doors open on the cupboards beneath your sinks and let the water trickle from the faucets when the temperatures are forecast to be very cold. This will enable warm air from the rest of your house to flow around the pipes, preventing them from freezing, and the dripping water will keep pressure in the lines from building up.

Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees if you’ll be traveling or away from home for a prolonged amount of time during the chilly months. Shutting off your main water supply and opening each faucet to let the water drain from the pipes is also a good idea.

Pipes Should Be Rerouted

Your supply lines and water pipes may also be rerouted away from unheated portions of your house, such as the garage and outside walls, by a skilled plumber.

If Your Pipes Freeze, What Should You Do?

To begin, turn off the house or business’s main water supply valve.

Then turn on the faucet into which the pipe pours water (if you can determine the location of the frozen pipe). This will release some of the system’s pressure and enable the water to flow more freely when the temperature changes.

Next, if feasible, warm up the room. Open doors to let extra heat in, open heating vents, or switch on a space heater if possible.

You may next use a hair drier or a space heater to attempt to reheat the pipes around the frozen region. Hot clothes placed around the pipe might also be helpful. Always keep an eye on the warming process and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal usage.

Water spilling from thawing pipes should be avoided near electrical cables and appliances. The combination of water and electricity is very harmful.

What happens if the pipeline bursts?

Shut off your main water supply and contact a plumber if your pipe is leaking or has broken. Water damage may be minimized by turning off the water supply.

We make every effort to offer up-to-date and accurate information, but this material may include mistakes or information that is inappropriate for your circumstance or your equipment. The resources on this website are intended to give general information. Tureks Plumbing Services disclaims any and all responsibility arising from the information given. Always review your equipment’s operating handbook before attempting to repair or alter plumbing, electrical, or other equipment in your home or company, and only do so if you are competent.

Feel free to contact us with any questions, concerns or service requests.

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5 Tips For Preventing Common Sewer Line Issues

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2021

5 Tips For Preventing Common Sewer Line Issues

5 Tips For Preventing Common Sewer Line Issues 2021

Some of the sewer line problems homeowners in Appleton, WI, face include blocked, corroded, damaged, and root-infested pipes. By implementing the right preventative plumbing tips, you can escape all the hassles and high costs of sewer line and plumbing repairs. Below are five tips for preventing common sewer line issues.

Do Not Flush Just Anything Down The Toilet

The toilet is designed to accommodate toilet paper and human waste, and nothing else. Avoid flushing diapers, tampons, cotton balls, and other paper products down the toilet since they do not dissolve easily and will simply block your pipes and cause an array of plumbing problems.

Avoid Pouring Oil and Grease in Your Sink

Grease, oil, and fatty substances that can be found in soaps and shampoos can accumulate inside the sewer line and cause a blockage. As such, it is important that you do not throw grease and leftover oil down the kitchen drains.

Installing a grease receptor under the kitchen sink will also help prevent grease stoppage. You can also keep the kitchen drain clean by pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water every few weeks or so. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumbing company in St. Paul, MN, recommend keeping a jar under your sink where you can pour grease into it after cooking. 

Do Not Plant Trees or Shrubs Near Your Sewer Line

Tree roots naturally move to areas with water supplies, which include pipes. If you are starting a garden, avoid planting in areas near or on top of the sewer line.

You can also consider removing trees planted near the sewer line to prevent the roots from damaging the pipes.

Another option would be to sprinkle copper sulfate crystals around the sewer line. This substance will create a poisonous zone around the pipe and prevent the roots from infiltrating into the pipes.

Lastly, if you want to grow trees, plant ones with shallow root structures such as ash, maple, oak, and willow.

Install a Backwater Prevention Valve

A backwater prevention valve is installed into a sewer line and sometimes into a drain line in the basement of a home or building to prevent sewer backflows. When installed properly, the valve allows sewage to go out but not to come back in.

Have Your Sewer Line Checked Periodically

If you are living in a home that is more than 10 years old, have a Fox Valley plumber check your plumbing system and sewer line every year or so or whenever you have any problems with your drains. A professional plumber will be able to pinpoint the exact cause of your sewer line issue and make the necessary plumbing repairs. In case you have iron pipes, consider having them replaced with UPVC pipes. They are more effective in preventing tree roots from entering your line. 

When you have plumbing problems, contact Tureks Plumbing Services. One of our plumbers will assess your plumbing problem and recommend the solution that fits your budget and your needs. We also offer trenchless sewer repairs for a no-dig plumbing solution. Give us a call today for a free estimate! 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2018 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

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How to Prevent Burst Pipes This Winter

Wednesday, January 20th, 2021
how to prevent burst pipes this winter - Tureks Plumbing

How to Prevent Burst Pipes This Winter

As winter months bring snow and cold to our Appleton, WI community, many of us are scrambling to pull out warm sweaters, get firewood, and check our furnaces. But there is one job that many of us have neglected during our preparations for the long winter months: preventing burst pipes. Surprisingly, this happens to many Fox Valley homeowners. Burst pipes can be an expensive plumbing emergency in Appleton, WI, which is why our plumbers are sharing how to prevent burst pipes this winter in the article below. 

Why Pipes Freeze

How are do plumbing pipes freeze? When it’s cold, the accumulated water inside the pipes freezes and expands, which creates extreme pressure. Eventually, the ice causes enough pressure to break the pipes. Fox valley plumbers explain that this is where the issues really begin. Research shows that a one-eighth-of-a-inch crack in a plumbing pipe can deliver up to 250 gallons of water a day! This amount of water can cause significant structural and property damage.

What would you do to avoid freezing and bursting pipes in your home? Here are seven tips to keep your pipes safe during the winter cold:

Pipes Must be Insulated

The exposed pipe is vulnerable to freezing, even in warmer climates. There is a range of ways to keep the pipes as snug as a bug in a blanket. One way is to apply insulation to the pipes throughout the building. Almost every home improvement store has foam insulation available for purchase. Simply wrap the foam around the tubing to shield it from cold temperatures.

Other choices for keeping your pipes warm include covering them with heat tape or using thermostatically operated heat cables. Make sure you use products approved by your Fox Valley plumber to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety.

Let Your Faucet Drip

Most people see a leaking hawk as a matter that needs to be resolved. However, in the winter months, it’s actually a smart idea to let your hawk drip just a little. A little bit of water flow keeps the pressure in the pipes low. Low pressure means less of a risk that those pipes could break!

Seal the Cracks and Leaks

Caulk is our favorite this time of year. You want to keep as much cold air out as you can. Have a careful inspection of your house to determine if there is any air leakage. Places to look at include nearby dryer vents, walls, electrical wiring, and of course, pipes.

When you’ve found them, the regular caulk gun and caulk should do the trick of sealing the leaks and keeping the chill-out.

Open Doors 

If you’re home or out of town, the American Red Cross suggests leaving the interior doors of your home open. This makes it possible for the heat to flow into the house more effectively. It also allows the heat to get closer to the pipes, minimizing the chance of freezing them.

Keep Garage Door Closed

While you want to leave those interior doors open to allow free heat to circulate throughout the building, you can keep your garage door closed. This is particularly true if you have pipes running through your garage. Again, you want to keep the cold air out of your walls and pipes as much as you can. Shutting the garage door will help to give you an extra layer of security.

Control the Thermostat

If you’re leaving town, be sure to keep your heat at no less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Yes, it’s hard to think of paying to keep the heat on when you’re not at home. However, in the long run, you’ll save money by keeping your house warm and stopping blowing pipes. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumbing company in Woodbury, MN, adds that water damage could cost you a couple of thousand dollars in costs repairs. And that’s a lot more than a few extra bucks that could cost your heating bill.

Disconnect/Shut off The Water

Another tip if you’re out of town for a while: consider turning off your main water line and exhausting your water supply. This would leave your pipes empty in the building so that no water will freeze within them and cause a rupture.

Contact Fox Valley Professionals

But as Fox Valley plumbers point out, if you have a fire safety device, this might not be a good idea. Shutting off the water main means that the fire system won’t work. If shutting down your water main doesn’t seem to be a good idea at least detach all the outer water hoses. Water in these hoses will freeze back to your house. You can always contact our plumbers at Tureks Plumbing. Our team will assist you with all your residential plumbing needs. Not to mention we provide 24/7 plumbing services in Appleton, WI. 

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Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020
root intrusion in sewer line - Tureks Plumbing

Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines

It turns out tree roots in sewer lines are a very common problem. This is because the roots look for the best moisture sources, so they are attracted to the unlimited supply of wastewater that flows in the sewer lines.

The roots may enter the pipes through any gaps or joints. As they absorb moisture from the pipes, they expand and multiply. This leads to the pipes’ structural decay over time, and eventually, the pipes will collapse. Please contact a plumber from a pipe repair company in Appleton, WI, if your pipes collapse.

About Root Intrusion

Contrary to popular opinion, though, there are permanent ways of solving this issue without cutting the tree down. But first, we need to know why exactly trees do this.

Both bush roots and trees need oxygen to grow and are attracted to the water vapor that escapes from the sewer pipes. As these plants thrive in moist and warm places, the nutrient-rich sewer and sewer pipes provide an ideal place for them to thrive and grow. As they absorb moisture from the pipes, they widen these gaps, which leads to breakages along the pipes. 

Fox Valley plumbers explain that clay pipes are the ones that are most commonly infiltrated by tree roots. Cast iron pipes, on the other hand, are not as likely to be damaged from these intrusions. Once the tree roots are lodged in the pipe, they spread and grow in many places, not at a singular spot. Small and fine hair roots grow and develop into larger roots that eventually lead to the pipe’s breaking open.

If they grow to be big enough to fully block these pipes, they are usually difficult to dislodge or kill using chemical treatments. Therefore, they must be removed in the early stages.

Signs of Root Intrusion

If you have noticed gurgling sounds coming from your pipes or slow drainage, especially if you live on a property with several trees on it or one large one (located close to your plumbing pipes), the reason for this could be pipes that have been blocked by tree roots. 

You should contact a Fox Valley plumbing company immediately to come and inspect your pipes.

However, if you are worried that one day, the tree roots may invade your piping, then you should consider scheduling a yearly inspection from Tureks Plumbing Services, just to be on the safe side.

Alternatively, you can start by checking out the trees that are near your plumbing pipes, roughly 10 feet on either side. You can also do your research on how quickly the roots of the specific types of trees you have on your property can grow as well as how big they can grow.  

If you suspect that the roots were attracted by a leak from your pipes (cracks are usually caused by pipes freezing during the winter), then you need to contact a plumber.

McQuillan Bros, who offer plumbing inspections in Minneapolis, says your plumber will confirm this using a camera-pipe inspection. If it turns out that you have tree roots in your plumbing, you must have them removed immediately. After their removal, you should practice preventative maintenance. This may include replacing trees that grow large roots with those that have slower root growth. 

How Can We Fix Root Intrusion?

There are several ways of making sure tree roots do not damage your pipes.

No Dig Sewer Repair Methods

The most effective of these is the lateral lining or cured-in-place-piping (CIPP), which is a trenchless pipe lining repair method. 

You can also ask your Appleton plumber if they can use Hydro Jetting to clean your pipes. This process usually removes all the tree roots, grease as well as other everyday materials using high speed and pressure water. By use of a heavy-duty power nozzle that is operating at 4,000 pounds per square inch, this technique removes and destroys all the blockages and leaves your pipes working efficiently and very clear.

Hydro Jetting, in addition to this, is also a great preventive measure for clogged pipes. Many commercial businesses usually schedule routine hydro jetting maintenance for their facilities.

In short, it’s that good.

Rock Salt

Additionally, you can use rock salt to kill the roots by drying them out. Rock salt is poisonous to plants, and it sucks the moisture away from the roots, so they can’t thrive anymore.

To do this, pour half a pound of rock salt into your toilet bowl and flush until the bowl is completely cleaned out. Repeat this until you have flushed 2 pounds of rock salt down your pipes. Let it work for between 8-12 hours. During this period, avoid running any water or flushing your toilet. This may drain into the pipes that are affected. Doing this a few times a month may help keep your pipes clear of roots. 

Contact Fox Valley Plumber

If the root intrusion problem has severely compromised your plumbing, contact Tureks Plumbing Services immediately. Our experienced plumbers will inspect and resolve the issue quickly and cost-effectively. 

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Why Are My Drains Gurgling?

Wednesday, November 4th, 2020

Why Are My Drains Gurgling?

why are my drains gurgling - Tureks Plumbing

So, you’re doing the dishes at the kitchen sink, and suddenly, you hear a gurgling sound. Why are my drains gurgling? Gurgling is usually caused when there’s something that’s blocking air or water from flowing in your pipes. Water traveling slowly in your pipes forms air bubbles that create a gurgling sound.

There may be different things that cause the blockages that result in the gurgling sound. Experts at a Fox valley plumbing company highlight some of those factors:

A Blocked Sewer Line

This is the pipe that carries all the wastewater from all the pipes in your house to the septic tank or main sewer line in your yard or street. If you have a clogged sewer line, then all the pipes in your house will be affected. 

However, if you aren’t sure whether your sewer line is clogged, try flushing the toilet upstairs. If sewage starts to overflow from any pipes below, it is likely blocked.

You might want to call a plumber immediately. Check out emergency plumbers in Fox Valley for affordable rates and efficient services.

Usually, the main blockages for sewer lines are due to:

  • Broken pipes
  • Bathroom products
  • Tree roots (these are the most common cause) 

Trees need water to survive. This water is usually absorbed using the roots underground. Roots can grow into old drains in search of water. They may cause the breakage of pipes, which may result in unplanned expenses.

Replacing pipes isn’t cheap, but you can contact Tureks Plumbing Services, 

In Appleton, WI, bathroom products are the biggest cause of blockages in sewer lines. 

Below is a list of bathroom products you should not be flushing down the toilet:

  • Diapers
  • Pads and Tampons
  • Baby wipes
  • Dental floss
  • Q-Tips
  • Tissues
  • Paper towel

If you do flush them down the drain, please refrain from doing so frequently. Also, look for alternative means to dispose of your products.

A Blocked Vent System

The plumbing vent in your house allows air to pass through the pipes without interrupting the water flow. Drain or sewer vents usually extend to the outside of the house (mostly through the roof) from the waste pipes.

If your plumbing vent is clogged, then your plumbing system will not function.

To determine if your plumbing vent is clogged, you can: 

  • Try to listen for your pipes gurgling
  • Observe the speed at which your water drains
  • Smell for any bad odors that may be coming from your drain. 

These odors are mostly caused by the gases and air that have been trapped in the pipes, which create a foul smell.

A Blocked or Damaged P-Trap 

A P-Trap is a curved pipe that holds an amount of water under any sink in your house. The P-Trap’s main purpose is to create a water seal that prevents sewer gases from exiting through your drains, which protects your home from bad odors.

If your P-Trap has been damaged or has not been installed correctly, you’ll notice a stench when you flush the toilet or when water is flowing into your sink or shower drain.

If you can smell the sewage, then the time has come for you to replace your P-trap.

However, if your P-Trap is located in your wall or underground, please contact a professional from Tureks Plumbing Services.

I advise you not to DIY this, or it may end up costing you a lot more time and money, in the end, to repair it professionally.

A Blocked Drain

The main reason your pipes are gurgling could be either a partial or complete blockage. There’s a difference between the two and knowing how to differentiate between them is important.

A Partially Blocked Drain

A partially clogged drain is a few moments away from being a completely clogged one. To know whether you have a partially blocked drain, note how long it takes to drain water. If the water drains slower than usual and you can hear some gurgling, that means your drain is partially blocked.

The first thing you should do is clean your pipes using a pipe cleaner as soon as you notice your water draining slowly.

A Completely Blocked Drain

Ignoring a partially blocked drain and not cleaning it will result in a completely blocked one.

When the water rises in your bathtub or sink instead of draining, then you have a completely blocked drain.

Some of the causes of a complete drain blockage are:

  • Hair
  • Dirt
  • Soap residue
  • Dead skin
  • Oils or grease
  • Toilet paper build-up

Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumbing company in St. Paul, MN, agrees that if you have more than one drain in your house that is experiencing a blockage, this may indicate a blockage in your sewer line. 

You should contact a sewer pipe repair company in Appleton, WI, to scope the line, that is, use a camera to inspect the reason for the clog. You can always count on Tureks Plumbing Services to provide 24/7 emergency services. We’ll restore your plumbing back to its original glory! 

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How Long Will My Pipes Last?

Wednesday, October 21st, 2020
how long will my pipes last - Tureks Plumbing Services

How Long Will My Pipes Last?

Plumbing has dramatically evolved over the years. Clay and lead piping were among the first materials to be used. These were used to transport water to public buildings and homes. In the early 20th century, when homes began to be built with indoor plumbing, materials such as copper, cast iron, terra-cotta, and galvanized steel were utilized. 

Until World War II, lead piping was the majority’s material of choice when it came to plumbing pipes. As awareness about lead poisoning grew, its popularity drastically declined. Post World War II brought about galvanized screw piping as the choice material for plumbing pipes in homes.

In the 1970s, copper and polybutylene grew in popularity. Currently, polybutylene is now banned by most, if not all, building codes, as research found out that the material was compromised when exposed to chlorine.  

Knowing the different types of plumbing pipes in your home ensures that you take the necessary steps to avert floods, leaks, and potential health hazards. If you’d prefer a professional’s assistance from the beginning, contact Tureks Plumbing Services. Let’s discuss the main plumbing pipes commonly found in your home.

Types of Plumbing Pipes

Copper Pipes

Two major types of copper piping can be utilized in a plumbing system. They include flexible copper tubing and rigid copper. Copper piping is usually manufactured in different sizes, the most popular ones being the 15 and 22 mm. 

Copper piping is a reliable material that can endure for more than 50 years. It is also not prone to leakage or corrosion. It will not pollute water, it can be recycled, can withstand extreme temperature changes, and since bacteria cannot flourish in the pipes, it is safe to use copper to transport drinking water. 

Polyvinylchloride Pipes (PVC)

This is a mixture of plastic and vinyl. They are mostly used for highly pressurized water. They can also be used in draining and transporting drinking water. 

PVC pipes last for an indefinite period as they are not susceptible to corrosion or rust. These pipes can also handle high water pressure as stated above and are very light, making them easy to carry and use. PVC pipes are also affordable and are offered as an economical alternative for plumbing pipes. To replace PVC pipes with CPVC pipes for the additional advantage they offer, get in touch with a Fox Valley plumbing company.

Galvanized Steel Pipes

These pipes are made of steel, which is then coated in a zinc layer to prevent rusting. However, they are rarely used these days because of their unreliability. If your home was built in the 1980s or before then, it might have galvanized piping. Consider replacing these right away. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services to replace your galvanized steel pipes.

The pipes last between 20 to 50 years before they start breaking down. They are prone to rust and corrosion, which may lead to lead contamination, which is hazardous. Mineral buildup in the pipes forms clogs that block water from flowing.

For emergency plumbing services such as burst galvanized steel pipes or pipe corrosion, contact the best plumbing company in Appleton, WI.

Cross-linked Polyethylene Pipes (PEX)

This is a relatively new material in the plumbing scene but is gaining popularity as it is being utilized in new homes. The main difference between PEX and PVC is that PEX pipes are flexible; they can make 90 degree turns without fragmenting. McQuillan Bros, a Twin Peaks plumbing repair company, says that these pipes are easy to cut and join together, making the installation process for experts like the Fox Valley plumbing company easy and quick, promoting efficiency. 

PEX pipes are completely corrosion and rust-resistant. These pipes are also able to hold out against extreme temperatures. Despite being more expensive as compared to PVC, they are still significantly more affordable than copper.

An additional advantage of these pipes is that they are made to last.

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC)

These pipes are PVC pipes, the only difference being that they are chlorinated. This makes them able to withstand temperature differences that PVC cannot.

The pipes are rust and corrosion resistant as well as lightweight, making them easy to carry and use. They withstand temperatures of up to 200 degrees, meaning they can handle and transport hot water. If you’d like CPVC pipes installed in your home, contact a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin.

In any case, you should check for and remove polybutylene piping and lead piping in your house, especially if your house was constructed between the 1970s and 1990s.

Polybutylene is plastic and gray. The material is prone to breakage and is mostly found in houses located in Mid-Atlantic states, the Sun Belt, and the Pacific Northwest. If you suspect your house does have these pipes, have a Fox Valley plumber come and conduct an inspection as soon as possible.

Lead pipes, on the other hand, are dull gray and have a 100-year lifespan but are a hazardous and toxic material, especially when it leaches into your drinking water as it causes lead poisoning, the effects of which can be treated but are irreversible.

If you’re in need of plumbing services in Appleton, WI, contact a plumbing professional and have the water tested for lead. If the lead content is 15 ppb (parts per billion) or more, have a professional plumber from Tureks Plumbing Services replace your home’s pipes immediately.

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When Should You Have Your Pipes Relined?

Wednesday, September 2nd, 2020

When Should You Have Your Pipes Relined for Your Appleton Home?

when should you get your pipes relined - Tureks Plumbing

Like electrical wiring, plumbing is one of those things that has to work optimally at all times to avoid potential household disasters. Sewer lines play an especially crucial role in the home, and any issues that aren’t addressed can result in major sewer line repair fees and possibly structural damage. However, while plumbers in Appleton, Wisconsin advise their clients to stay on top of their plumbing maintenance. Replacing pipes is just about the worst kind of home repair project you could go through. It is disruptive, expensive, and chances are your Appleton plumber will have to dig up your yard to fix the problem.

So, aside from replacing the damaged pipes, what alternatives do you have for sewer pipe repair in Appleton, WI that aren’t as expensive and disruptive? Well, you could choose to reline the damaged pipes, a restorative measure that’s easier, faster, and costs a lot less. Currently, an evolving technology, pipe lining in Appleton, WI can be used to correct a wide variety of plumbing issues. With this technique, a special resin is used to repair your pipes from the inside. A resin-saturated felt tube, usually polyester or fiberglass, is inserted into the damaged pipe and the resin hardens, creating a new and in some cases stronger pipe within the damaged one.

The following plumbing issues can be addressed with pipe lining technique, so if you notice any of them, contact an Appleton Wisconsin plumber right away.

Common Plumbing Issues

Plumbing is essential to homes everywhere, but everyday use puts immense stress on it, leading to wear and tear over time. Ideally, the resulting issues should be addressed by a plumber in Appleton Wisconsin early enough to prevent them from becoming too severe. They include:

Burst Pipes  

Solid and oily materials will undoubtedly be part of your waste, and they can build up and cause blockages within your piping. Water pressure will start building up within the pipes and if left unchecked, will continue to increase until the pipe bursts. How would you know your piping has a blockage? McQuillan Bros, a plumbing company in Minneapolis, says to watch out for unpleasant smells coming from the drains, gurgling sounds, lush green plants growing around your sewer line, slow or failed draining, raised water levels, and dampness.

If a damaged pipe has gone unnoticed for a long time, the soil or ground around it may subside or sink over time as the sewage weakens its structural integrity. If the pipe lies beneath the building’s structural points, cracks may start to appear on the floors or in the walls. Trying to fix the cracks would be an unwise short term solution.  Instead, contact a plumber in Appleton Wisconsin to address the root of the problem. If it is due to a blockage in the piping, you will benefit from the ease and simplicity of pipe lining in Appleton Wisconsin.

Root Intrusions

This goes to all the Appleton, Wisconsin residents who have plants, especially trees, close to their sewer lines. Sewer lines provide water and nutrients to the plants, so when there is a leak, a root might push its way into the pipes and clog them. Once the roots are in, they will slowly grow and expand until the pipe is completely clogged. To prevent it from getting this far, watch out for:

  • Slowly emptying drains, especially when you flush the toilet
  • Gurgling noises
  • Sinkholes can form if the root intrusion is extensive. At this stage, the structural integrity of your foundation may be in question, so contact a plumber in Appleton Wisconsin immediately to come and inspect your property. 
  • Bad odor coming from the drain.

If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, contact a plumber right away. Your plumbing can be fixed with pipe lining repair in Appleton WI.

Rust and Deterioration

If you used steel pipes, chances are they will eventually start rusting due to their constant exposure to moisture. This weakens their structural integrity, making them susceptible to leaks. Additionally, all kinds of pipes are subject to wear and tear, and over time, they will degrade in quality. Watch out for:

  • Discolored water coming from your taps.
  • Stains underneath the sink or discoloration in the wall. Try looking at the ceiling of a room directly underneath a bathroom.
  • Warped bathroom walls. If there is a leak due to deterioration, the drywall in your bathroom may become moist and begin to bubble, causing it to warp and eventually break. You will have to contact a contractor to repair the drywall once the Appleton plumber is done repairing the leak.

Pipe relining in Appleton, WI is a new and exciting technique for fixing damaged pipes and removing blockages. Not only is it easier and faster than replacing damaged pipes, but it is quite easy on the pocket, and your precious yard won’t be uprooted in the process. Have you noticed any of the above issues on your property? They ought to be fixed right away, and pipe relining in Appleton, WI is the best way to do that. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services in Appleton, Wisconsin today. 

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Home Plumbing Maintenance

Wednesday, August 19th, 2020

All About Home Plumbing Maintenance

home plumbing maintenance - Tureks Plumbing Services

Basic preventative plumbing maintenance in Appleton, WI, for your plumbing system can go a long way. After all, any leak, clog, or dripping faucet that is left unattended only worsens. That’s why we at Turek’s Plumbing Services recommend that regular preventative maintenance is done on the plumbing system of your residential or commercial property. Such an exercise helps professionals to spot and fix problems early. For this reason, we encourage all Fox City homeowners to give us a call anytime you need residential plumbing services.

Drain Maintenance

You wouldn’t be wrong if you mentioned that drains are one of the most vital components of the plumbing system. Without drains, water and other forms of waste wouldn’t be able to flow out of your home. The net result is that the toilet, kitchen sinks, washing machines, and showers wouldn’t work as you expect them to. 

It is, therefore, vital that you do what you can to avoid having to deal with a clogged drain. Fortunately, periodic drain maintenance is usually sufficient to prevent most drain issues. For those that do occur, our plumbers in Fox City are available to address those defects, so you don’t have to.

How do you keep drains working? One way we recommend to keep drains working properly is by being conscious about the things that go down the drains. For example, getting rid of feminine hygiene products in toilets is a sure way to clog up the toilet drain in just the same way as dumping grease down a sink will eventually clog it up. You can also buy a biodegradable drain cleaner and regularly use it to keep your drains clean and free from deposits. Contact a plumber in Appleton for help in choosing the best product since many on the market are acidic or caustic and can damage the plumbing pipes.

Plumbing System Inspection

As you may be aware, the plumbing system is a complex network of valves, pipes, taps, and drains. All these components work collectively to keep water flowing through the system. If one of these components develops a defect, the problem is likely to affect other aspects of the system, and soon enough, you will notice that something isn’t right.

To ensure that everything remains working perfectly, it is advisable to get a plumbing system inspection says Minneapolis plumbing company, McQuillan Bros. The plumbers will conduct a detailed inspection of the plumbing system on an annual basis. 

How do you know you need a plumbing system inspection? Our experienced plumbers know what to look out for in order to fix any inefficiencies or developing defects in the plumbing system. We recommend that you invite a plumber in to conduct plumbing maintenance in Appleton, WI for the reasons listed below. 

  • You are about to buy or sell a home
  • You have recently remodeled your home, especially the bathroom and kitchen
  • You want to switch to a different type of water heater, such as a tankless water heater
  • The plumbing system in your home hasn’t been inspected for two or more years
  • You’ve observed problems that seem to be systemic, such as multiple drains that are slow

Get a Home Service Plan

It isn’t always easy for you as a homeowner to remember all the things that you need to do to keep the plumbing system working at its best. That is why we recommend that if you live in Appleton, Wisconsin, sign a plumbing home service plan with us at Tureks Plumbing Services. We will perform all the needed preventive maintenance as well as perform timely repairs as soon as we notice a defect.

Such preventive maintenance will increase water heater efficiency, avert expensive plumbing emergencies, improve plumbing system performance, and improve overall system safety. Get a home plumbing system service plan at Tureks Plumbing Services and take the pressure off your shoulders. Contact a Fox Valley plumber today if you would like to know more about our home service plan, or if you need help with any aspect of the plumbing system.

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How Does the Trenchless Pipe Repair Process Work?

Wednesday, August 5th, 2020

How Does  the Sewer Pipe Lining Process Work?

  • trenchless sewer repair in Appleton WI

Having sewer lines replaced or repaired can be difficult. Traditional pipe repair methods require a long, deep trench from your house to your curb to gain access to the pipe underground. This method is costly and can be damaging to your property, says Rancho Cordova Pipe Repair Company, Gilmore Heating, Air, & Plumbing.   

Fortunately, Tureks Plumbing Services now offers trenchless pipe repair so that you don’t have to go through those problems. If the pipes were made from clay, iron, concrete, or other materials, chances are those pipes are worn down. One of our pipe repair professionals in Appleton, Wisconsin, can perform a camera video inspection to confirm that you can benefit from our trenchless pipe relining service, or another method would be better suited to the existing defect.

Trenchless Pipe Repair Explained

First, our pipe repair company in Appleton, Wisconsin will determine if trenchless pipe relining can be done on your property. 

  1. A pipe repair technician will use a sewer camera to identify and evaluate the problem.
  2. An access hole is dug at both ends of the pipe. 
  3. A flexible tube is pushed into the old pipe. The flexible tube looks like neoprene, and it is coated with a special resin.
  4. The technician pumps compressed air into it so that it can blow out and cling to the interior walls of the old sewer pipe. 

After several hours, the resin hardens and then there will be a solid pipe inside the existing pipe. At this point, the pipe will have a slightly smaller internal diameter. This is hardly anything to worry about because the pipe will allow wastewater to flow through easily since the pipe is now smooth, and roots will no longer penetrate it.

No Damage to Trees

When undergoing traditional methods, any trees in the way of the trench have to be uprooted to access the pipes underneath. With point repair, trees can remain intact during the work.

Using advanced tools, Tureks Plumbing Services personnel can map and locate all the underground utilities to avoid disruption of those areas. This is why trenchless pipe repair doesn’t pose threats to anything else underground.

Pipe relining may not be an option if the sewer pipe on your property has a low point where water can pool. Similarly, offset pipe sections also preclude the use of trenchless pipe repair, and our Appleton plumber will recommend an alternative repair method, such as traditional excavation or pipe bursting.

Is Trenchless Pipe Repair Right for Me?

The only way to be certain that trenchless pipe repair is feasible on your property is by having an experienced professional conduct an inspection. If the method is applicable, you will get to enjoy this long-term, cost-effective pipe repair method. Even if trenchless pipe repair can’t be used, we will use the most suitable techniques and tools to restore the structural integrity of the sewer pipes on your property. Contact a Fox City plumber today and learn more about how trenchless pipe repair can be used in your home.

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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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