Five Common Summer Plumbing Problems
1. Toilet Issues
Everything gets more use when the kids are out of school for the summer, including the toilet. Because the use of the toilet increases, the probability of clogs also increases. Talk to everyone in the household about not using too much toilet paper and not putting other items in the toilet that don’t belong there.
2. Sprinklers
To prevent leaks, thoroughly clean the sprinkler system before turning it on. While cleaning, look for leaks or broken sprinkler heads. Also be careful of hitting the sprinkler heads with the lawn mower.
3. Sewer Clogs
Spring generally brings a lot of rain. This can cause the sewer line to back up easily. If homeowners notice any signs of sewer clogs or backups, they should call All Star Plumbing and Restoration immediately.
4. Clogged Disposals
With more food being eaten at home during the summer months, make sure children know what is and isn’t acceptable to put down the garbage disposal. Also, try to limit its use if it isn’t necessary. The more it is used, the easier it can get overworked and gummed up.
5. Washing Machine
During summer, more clothes get worn and dirty. More clothing means more loads of laundry, which can put stress on the washing machine. Keep an eye out for water leaks or problems with cycles.
Homeowners who find themselves dealing with any of the problems listed above, or other plumbing issues, call All Star Plumbing and Restoration. They’re available 24/7 for emergencies too.
Preventing Mold in the Shower
Mold loves to grow in damp places, which is why it is often found in the shower. It grows on tile grout, ceilings, walls, and shower curtains and can cause respiratory illnesses. To prevent mold and mildew from making themselves at home in the shower, follow these prevention steps:
1. Air Flow
When the shower is turned on, the ceiling fan should also be turned on. If the bathroom has a window, crack that open as well. This way, excess moisture moves out of the room, rather than condensing on the walls and tile. Leave the window open and the fan on for about 45 minutes after getting out of the shower as well.
2. Wipe Down
Immediately after getting out of the shower, wipe down the shower and tub with a squeegee or towel. Focus more on the corners and the tile grout, because these are the area where mold is most likely to start.
3. Washable Shower Curtain
Using a shower curtain that can be thrown in the washing machine makes keeping mold at bay a lot easier. They are easier to keep clean and require less maintenance. Look for one made of cotton, hemp, or nylon.
4. Wash the Mat
Many homeowners have non-slip shower mats. However, these are a breeding ground for mold because they’re constantly wet. Make sure to regularly wash the shower mat to reduce the chance of mold or mildew forming.
5. Clean the Shower
Use a non-toxic cleanser to clean the shower regularly. While cleaning the shower, check all of the crevices to see if mold is hiding in there. Clean the shower ceiling also if it needs it.
If the bathroom has sustained water damage from hot showers over time, All Star Plumbing and Restoration can help mitigate the damage.
Cracked Fiberglass Tubs
If a fiberglass bathtub cracks, it can cause a whole host of problems. Water can begin to leak and damage everything around it. The mold can creep in and make the bathroom smell musty. Why do fiberglass bathtubs crack? Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Improper Installation
When weight is placed on the fiberglass, if it doesn’t have adequate support, it will bend because of its flexible nature. When the bathtub is installed, it should be getting adequate support by being placed on top of mud, or a mixture of concrete and cement. If this isn’t done properly, excessive bending from everyday use can cause it to crack over time.
- Inadequate Support
If the bathtub was installed without a base to give it support, additional support can be added after a crack has developed. This can help make sure the bathtub won’t crack in the future. Generally additional support is added in the form of expanding polyurethane foam underneath the tub. It helps to fill the space between the subfloor and the bottom of the tub to prevent flexing.
- Manufacturing Mistakes
Sometimes during the manufacturing process, a mistake occurs. When creating a fiberglass bathtub, a gel coat is applied over a mold and chopped polyester resin and fiberglass are applied over it. Then, a laminator uses a roller to compact those two layers into the gel. Sometimes the laminator doesn’t roll over everything just right which can create weak areas that are prone to cracking.
- Cleaners
It is recommended not to use harsh cleaners on fiberglass tubs. The chemicals in these cleaners can weaken the tub and ruin the finish. Once it weakens, it will crack easier. Use a safer cleaner to lessen the chance of ruining the tubs finish and weakening it.
- Clumsiness
Bathtubs can be slick due to the soap and water used in them. This means people accidentally drop items. If the items are heavy enough, it could cause the bathtub to crack. Be careful using heavy objects in or around the shower to prevent accidents from happening.
If the bathtub or shower pan crack, give All Star Plumbing and Restoration a call. Their experts can evaluate the situation, repair any water damage that may be present and correct the problem so it does not reoccur.
Fun Bathroom Accessories
There is some pretty fun, unique, and inventive bathroom accessories and gadgets out there. For those looking to add a little fun and creativity to their bathroom, check out these bathroom accessories:
- Loogun
Instead of using that dirty, old toilet brush with a ton of germs, try the Loogun. It cleans the entire bowl with a blast of water. It’s more hygienic because it never has to actually touch the toilet bowl. It’s not available just yet, but it can be preordered.
- Potty Piano
Tired of reading books while using the bathroom? Get a Potty Piano! It sits below the toilet much like a mat, and lets people play music with their feet. It also comes with a song book!
- Night Light
Turning on the light in the middle of the night to go to the restroom can be jarring. With a motion-activated nightlight from IllumiBowl, there’s no need to flip on the light switch. The nightlight comes in nine colors and fits on any toilet.
- Aromatherapy Shower
Want to go to the spa without paying for it? Get an aromatherapy shower kit. It blends essential oils directly into the hot water through an adjustable arm that attaches to the shower head. Relax with a personal spa right in the shower!
- Toilet Paper Gentleman
Update that boring toilet paper holder by replacing it with a medieval knight. Chivalry isn’t dead with this nice crusader to hold that roll of toilet paper. Maybe it will inspire an entire medieval-themed bathroom.
Visit our All Star Plumbing Facebook page for links to these items!
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