What is Rooter Service and Why Should It Be Done Professionally?

Rooter service is a broad term used to describe locating and repairing sewage problems. The resident can usually repair simple clogs, but more complicated problems should be left to experienced sewer contractors. These five types of sewage repair will help explain when and why rooter service is needed.

Plunging - Using a hand plunger to remove minor clogs is easy enough. Place the plunger firmly into the toilet drain and pump the handle down and up vigorously a few times. If there is already a lot of water in the bowl, you will see the toilet drain when the clog has been removed. If there isn't much water in the bowl, flush the toilet after plunging.

Snaking - A plumber's snake is a long insert that can be used in sewer lines to remove moderate clogs. Never place a snake directly into a toilet bowl because inexperienced rotation and force can cause permanent scratching of porcelain and other molded surfaces. The best solution is to call a plumbing service if you are unable to remove the clog with a plunger. 

Tank Pumping - If your home has a private septic system, the tank should be pumped annually, or more often when necessary. Keep in mind, however, that having a septic tank pumped more often than 3 times in a year probably indicates a drain field problem. Continually pumping the tank may be an expensive stop-gap for symptoms of a more serious issue.

Drain Fields - When a drain field stops functioning correctly, it can prevent the septic tank from draining. Septic system drain fields will fail over time due to becoming clogged with material that hasn't properly biodegraded, tree roots, or accidentally driving across the drain field. 

Sewer Pipe Repair - Sewer pipes can become clogged, crushed, or broken for a variety of reasons. Your plumbing contractors can use trenchless or trenched sewer repair when that happens. Depending on your location and the available access to the sewer lines, your plumbing service provider can advise you on the most appropriate solution.

Hiring a great contractor takes more than dialing the first number you come across. You should always verify that you are working with a company that is both licensed and insured and that the company has the experience and staff to get the job done right the first time and without dragging out the project. Licensing is required by law in California and indicates that the company has proven its knowledge and ability as required by local law.

Residential Glass is More Than a Better View

If you are tired of looking at the world through windows that always seem to be dingy, it may be time to invest in residential glass. The good news is that installing window glass will do a lot more than give you a clear view, including reducing your energy costs, keeping the home quieter and more comfortable, and increasing the asking price when your home goes on the market.

Temperature Barriers

Installing new residential glass will help insulate your home against exterior heat and cold. As windows and their frames age, joints break down and sealant fails. Additionally, modern advances in window technology such as multi-paned glass provides a better barrier than older windows were ever designed to handle.

Noise Blockers

Replacing your old windows creates a renewed sound barrier as well. Annoying outside noises like traffic or the neighbor's pet are kept at bay with windows and frames that provide a solid seal. You will also notice fewer drafty areas, eliminating the whistling and hissing sounds of high winds blowing against old window panes.

Time Savers

Older windows become more difficult to keep clean as they age because of years of sand grains blasting against the glass and creating micro pockets for dirt and other contaminants to accumulate. Similarly replacing worn window frames eliminates the need to repaint the frames often and reduces gaps where mold and mildew often become a problem. Window cleaning can be a tedious job, but replacing your residential glass will make them easier and faster to clean while reducing the frequency of cleaning required.

Boost Home Value

New window glass will have a profound impact on your home's curb appeal. Just as you will enjoy a clear view of the outside world, people passing by will notice a sparkling new look, attracting interested buyers who are willing to pay more. New residential glass can have an even bigger effect on home value if you install a large bay window or tinted glass that helps block dangerous UV light without compromising the privacy of the residents.

There is a lot to be said for installing new window glass. By choosing from several types of window designs and considering options like tinted glass, or laminated panes, you can give the exterior of your home a makeover that will boost property value, increase privacy, and keep your family healthier. Because of the many benefits provided, replacing your residential glass is much more than just a better view from within.