Kid-Friendly Activities for Quarantine 

May 6th, 2020

kid-friendly activities during quarantine - Fox Valley PlumberFun Activities Kids Can Do During Quarantine

We’re living in challenging times, but it’s times like this where we need to come together as a community. At Tureks Plumbing, we’re taking necessary measures to protect our employees and our customers. If you have a plumbing emergency contact us at. If you have a non-plumbing necessity, like picking up your groceries, we’re here for you. Just give us a call and let us know how we can help.

Many of us have a lot more time on our hands due to the mandatory shelter-in-place. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uneasy at this time, know that it’s perfectly normal. Social distancing does not mean we can’t have fun, so let’s make the best of it! Those who are at home with little ones may be running out of things to do, which is why our team has put together a list of fun, affordable, kid-friendly activities for quarantine.  

Coloring 

Studies have shown that there are many benefits to coloring. Some benefits include reducing stress and anxiety while improving sleep and focus. So, if you’re feeling more anxious than normal, download and print these fun coloring pages! You and your kiddo can color together. Feel free to share a picture of your beautiful artwork on Facebook or Instagram. Don’t forget to tag us!

Puzzle

Puzzles are a great way to kill time with the whole family. Some puzzles range from 20 to 1,000+ pieces! We asked our friends at Gilmore Heating & Air, a Sacramento HVAC company, for puzzle recommendations. The HVAC professionals recommend smaller Disney themed puzzles for the little ones and bigger, more educational puzzles for the older kids. There are so many different puzzles to choose from! There are puzzles of animals, Disney characters, well-known cities, history, art, etc. Order puzzles from Amazon or Target and make it a goal to complete a puzzle every week.

Exercise

The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 hours of moderate-intensity physical activity a week to prevent disease and improve quality of life. When we break that down, it comes out to 30 minutes of exercise, five days a week. Luckily, being stuck at home all day means more time for exercise! Our friends over at Headwaters Construction Inc., a NorCal commercial construction company, recommends the following workout! Get the whole family to do 10 jumping jacks, 10 push-ups, 10 high-knees, 10 crunches, and 10 squats. Repeat these exercises 3-4 times. Completing this quick circuit is a great way to get the blood flowing and burn off some of the kid’s energy. You can even get creative and have a push-up or crunch challenge. The winner recieves a special prize of your choice!

Science Project 

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable science project, grab a few liters of your favorite sodas and a pack of Mentos. This science project is a little messy, so we suggest going outside. Once you’re outside, have your kids uncap the different liters of soda and space them about five to ten feet apart. Next, take one or two Mentos and drop it into the soda bottle one at a time. Watch to see how each soda reacts to the Mentos. Enjoy!

We hope that you and your family are staying safe at this time. Although we’re not together, we’re not alone. We hope you enjoy these fun activities! Don’t forget to share pictures or videos of your favorite activities on Facebook or Instagram. Tag us at @tureksplumbingservices and we’ll reshare them to our Tureks community. For emergency plumbing services contact Tureks Plumbing today!

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Our Favorite Tankless Water Heater

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

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

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

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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Emergency Commercial Plumbing Problems

March 25th, 2020

commercial plumbing problems - Appleton commercial plumbing

For most commercial property managers, plumbing is one of the last things to think about. But that doesn’t mean it still isn’t an important part of the property. 

Plumbing problems are subtle and can end up being expensive. Not to mention, they can end up ruining the value of the property by causing long-term damage. The plumbing experts at Tureks Plumbing explore some of the different emergency commercial plumbing problems that can come up. The sooner you identify and handle the problem, the better. For commercial plumbing in Appleton, WI, contact us at Tureks Plumbing!

Commercial Plumbing Leaks 

Leaks are one of the more common and difficult problems to spot. You don’t generally know when a leak occurs until or unless it is major. You’ll start to notice a leak after the water seeps through the wall or onto the floors. But by then you will need some major repair work. 

To help identify leaks, you need to pay close attention to your water appliances. If you notice a drop in the pressure of the water from your faucets, this could mean that there is a leak somewhere along the pipeline. Another indicator is an unusual rise in your water bill. We recommend contacting a 24/7 emergency plumbing company right away to stop any further damage. 

Bellying and Blockage in Your Plumbing System

The blockage of the drain can be a huge problem for your overall drain system. Most people use commercial drain cleaners to help rid blockages, but they don’t solve the problem. Getting your drains cleaned by a plumbing professional is the best bet.

The backing of your drains is the best way to identify blockage. If it happens frequently, then that is the result of “bellying.” This occurs when the soil starts to shift over time. Earthquakes can also disrupt placement in pipes. This can result in dips in the pipe, which leads to backup and requires the help of a professional.

Bad Smells from Plumbing

Noticing bad smells coming from the drain itself is not a good sign. It usually means there is some sort of sewage backup or blockage that needs to be cleared out. Another reason for such smell could be the sewer vent not functioning properly. In either case, you need to consult a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin, Turkeys Plumbing. You can rely on our team to provide fast and efficient residential and commercial plumbing services.

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Do’s and Don’ts for a Shower Remodel

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

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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Why You Might Have Stinky Plumbing Problems

March 4th, 2020

You will notice at times that your plumbing literally stinks. If your drains/sinks are reeking of an awful smell, you’ll likely need the help of a 24-hour plumber in Fox Valley. So, what’s causing this smell? Well, there are numerous reasons why you may be having this plumbing problem: 

A Breach in the Sewer Line

There are a few different reasons why your sewer line becomes breached. For example, clogs can result in pressure buildup, which causes the line to burst. With sewers being underground, tree roots can grow and spread through the line. Bad soil conditions can result in the line sinking into the ground. All of which results in line breaking and sewerage leakage.

To identify a sewage leak, you need to pay attention to your toilets and drains. You’ll know that there’s a sewage problem when there’s a clog. Placerville HVAC company and plumbing adds that there is no easy way to resolve the issue on your own, and you will have to call your Appleton plumber to come and fix it for you.

Dirty Garbage Disposal

Yes, the garbage disposal is there for you to get rid of the garbage, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to clean it. Without proper garbage disposal maintenance, your kitchen sink will start to reek overtime. You can clean the disposal on your own as there are numerous DIY to do it, including using vinegar and baking soda. Just make sure you disconnect the disposal before you do it. 

P-trap Plumbing Problems

Sometimes plumbing problems occur in the “U” or “P” shaped part of the sink’s pipes. What typically happens is there is a small amount of water buildup. To fix this problem, you will need to cycle water through the pipes. This type of problem usually occurs when you infrequently use a toilet or sink, which results in the water in the pipe drying out. 

Buildup of Biofilm

Biofilm is the result of buildup from various products you use, such as soap, shampoo, oil, and cream. As biofilm starts to form in the drain, it attracts bacteria that feed on it. The bacteria that buildups emit an unpleasant odor. You can use a natural cleaner such as hot water, vinegar, and baking soda. You let the solution sit for about two hours and flush down hot water again, the biofilm should be removed along with the smell.

Most of these problems are not too difficult to tackle. But if you want professional plumbing help, contact the professionals. Are you looking for a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin? Give Tureks Plumbing Services a call. Our plumbing experts will get your plumbing system up and running in no time! 

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Signs Tree Roots are Interfering Your Underground Pipes

February 27th, 2020

signs tree roots are interfering your underground pipesTrees are a great addition to your lawn or compound. Their benefits range from increasing the aesthetic value of your home to holding the soil together and preventing erosion and providing natural shade. 

However, underneath the trees are roots that could cause problems to your underground pipes. Unlike the branches and leaves which can be monitored and trimmed before causing damage, roots are often left unattended. Their growth can damage your plumbing system and cause blockages. Our friends at Gilmore Heating and Air Conditioning, a residential ac company in Placerville, add that roots can also damage your heating and cooling system if they get out of hand.

Given that you cannot see roots, how can you tell that they are interfering with your underground pipes? Below are several different signs to look for. 

Repeated Toilet Backups

Your toilet drain transports waste material which is a great source of nutrients to plants. Since roots are always using nutrients, they can invade your drainage system in search of these nutrients. Initially, the small root hairs find weak spots in your drainage system and get through. But with time, the hairs grow thicker and bigger causing blockages. 

Such a situation unchecked can cost you a lot of money to replace the damaged drainage system. 

Other signs that indicate root interference with your drainage system include: 

  • Recurrent and unexplainable clogs 
  • Gurgling sounds 
  • Slow drainage 

Blocked Water Main

Your water main is also susceptible to damage from roots. The water main feeds water into your home for various uses. Therefore, any kind of interference from the roots will affect the amount of water you get. Some of the signs to be on the lookout for include: 

  • A gradual drop in water pressure
  • Banging and gurgling sounds

Since roots take time to grow, the effect might not be easily noticeable until very late. 

Broken Pipes or Sewer lines 

As roots grow bigger, they tend to crush or break underground pipes. This is especially the case in homes whose pipes are made of concrete or clay. You might not experience such effects on your pipes if they are made of PVC since they are impervious to roots. 

Some of the most telling signs of broken pipes and sewer lines include: 

  • Low water pressure
  • Abnormal sounds such as whistling and banging from the pipes
  • Increased water bills despite no change in water usage habits
  • Odors coming from your basement or yard
  • Water puddles in your yard. This could either be clean water being fed into your house or sewage coming from your house. 

The best way to determine whether your pipes are broken is through the use of a special camera that can be snaked through the pipe to detect issues. 

Prevent Tree Roots from Damaging your Underground Pipes 

Stopping tree roots from damaging your underground pipes will not only save you money but will also save you the trouble of having to damage your yard during repairs and replacements. You can do this through 

  • Considering your pipes and sewer lines before planting your tree. Avoid planting your trees around them. 
  • Find out what kind of roots your trees have. Avoid those with aggressive root systems. 

And if you have trees already, the best way to ensure that their roots do not interfere with your underground pipes in Appleton Wisconsin is by calling Tureks, your number one plumbing solution. Contact us today so we can inspect your roots and drains!

 

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