Drain Cleaning

March 26 2025

Simple Steps for Water Leak Repair

Have you noticed a plumbing leak in your home? It’s easy to ignore a leak when it hasn’t resulted in flooding.

However, even a small leak can waste upwards of 10,000 gallons of water within a year if not attended to. That’s a lot of water and money. It’s neither good for the environment nor your pocket.

Below, we share some tips for water leak repair to help you identify and fix leaks promptly.

Signs of a Water Leak

Water damage can occur right under your nose. Early detection of water leaks is crucial to avoid extensive damage and expensive repairs.

Below are some signs to look out for that indicate that you may be dealing with a leak.

Mold or mildew growth

A musty smell or dark spots are an indication of a mold infestation. This in turn is an indication of high moisture levels and a possible leak.

Pooling of water

Water puddles are an obvious sign of a leak.

Damp stains or discoloration of ceilings, walls, and floors

These are a sign of moisture seeping into the structure of your home.

Tips for Effective Plumbing Leak Repair

1. Identify the source of the leaking

The first step in repairing a leak is to identify exactly where the leak is located. Start by checking faucets, pipes, and toilets. Professionals use moisture meters to locate leaks within walls and other structures.

2. Turn off the water

This is important to not only stop further loss of water but also to facilitate the repairs. You may shut off the valve closest to the leak or close the main water supply to your property.

This depends on the design of your plumbing system as well as the location of the leak.

3. Clean and dry pipes

Clean the area to remove any dirt accumulated on the surface. Use the cloth to absorb excess water. Allow the area to dry completely. This will ensure proper adhesion of putty when applied to the surface.

4. Apply putty to the pipe

Use a plumbing putty to patch up the leaking area. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to activate and apply the putty. In general, apply a 0.5-inch thick layer of putty around the leaking area and press firmly. This will create a watertight seal.

5. Test and monitor

Turn the water back on and observe the area for any signs of leaks. Keep monitoring the area for leaks for the next few days. If you notice signs of leaking, it may be time to call in a professional.

Water Leak Repair Cost

The average cost of pipe leak repair ranges from $250 to $850. The actual cost of repair for your leak will depend on various factors including the severity of damage, the type of pipes, accessibility of the leaking area, the cost of labor in your area, and the cost of materials required for the project.

It is advisable to consult with at least three plumbing services and compare their quotations. This will ensure you get the best value for your money.

Contact Snofalls Plumbing for Professional Leak Repair North Bend Trusts

Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or a burst pipe, the best way to ensure your plumbing is functioning at optimum is by hiring a trusted plumber.

We at Snofalls Plumbing are trusted by the residents of North Bend to provide the best pipe leak repair services. We provide long-term solutions that will ensure you can enjoy optimal performance from your plumbing without worrying about leaks for a long time to come.

March 21 2025

How to Prevent Mold & Water Damage

Team

You come home and notice a damp musty smell. The smell is stronger right around the door leading to your basement. You open the door, make your way down the stairs, and step into a puddle of water. Cue ominous music.

Leaks and flooding are the stuff of nightmares for any homeowner. Even after getting rid of the water, you will have to deal with possible structural damage as well as mold. Below, we take a look at how to prevent water damage mold.

We also provide some tips on how you can avoid water damage in the first place.

How to Prevent A Mold Infestation after Water Damage in House

If you’ve discovered a leak or flooding in your home, take the following steps to avoid long-term issues resulting from the growth of mold.

Dry your home thoroughly

Your first priority should be to get rid of the water. This means much more than simply pumping out floor water or moping it up. It is important to ensure that you dry out the water completely. Moisture, in nooks and crannies especially, provides mold with the ideal conditions to grow and multiply.

After getting rid of standing water, be sure to get rid of lingering moisture. Mop wet areas dry and ventilate the area. Remove all soaked materials and keep the area well-ventilated until it is completely dry. You can use fans to speed up the drying process.

Get rid of affected furnishings and materials

Wet furnishings such as carpets and materials such as drywall can provide the perfect environment for mold growth. To eliminate this threat, you should get rid of all affected furnishings and materials. You can have items such as carpets deep cleaned. Items that can be dried out should be left in a well-ventilated area.

However, affected materials such as flooring pads and drywall would have to be discarded.

Install a dehumidifier

Even after drying out your home, if the humidity levels in your home are high, mold spores can germinate and spread. You can prevent a mold infestation by installing a dehumidifier. This will help to keep humidity levels in your home low.

Tips for Water Damage Prevention

How fast does mold grow? The answer is 24 to 48 hours. You could have a full-blown mold infestation long before you can search the internet for ‘signs of water damage in home.’ Prevention of water damage is therefore the best approach to take. Below, we share some of our top tips to prevent flooding and other water damage in the first place.

Repair and maintain your gutters

Your gutters are your home’s first line of defense against runoff from rain and molten snow. Ensure that there is proper drainage from your roof to prevent flooding in your home by investing in the repair and maintenance of your gutter system. Have your gutters cleaned at least twice a year to ensure that they are working optimally.

Install a smart leak detection system

If you’re like many people, you’ll be dealing with extensive water damage by the time you notice a leak. From a pipe burst in house to a slow leak in your plumbing system, smart leak detection systems will provide you with early warnings.

These systems monitor your water supply system for leaks and vulnerabilities. These systems detect everything from leaks and damage in pipes to moisture on the outside of pipes.

Conclusion

Preventing water damage is the best way to avoid mold infestations and other costly repairs. The team at Snofalls Plumbing offers a wide variety of solutions to help you avoid water damage and the long-term issues that may arise.

February 17 2025

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During Winter

Ken

A cup of steaming hot cocoa, a warm blanket, and a crackling fire are the only things many of us need for comfort when temperatures plummet. However, if you want true peace of mind, it’s important to ensure your property is ready for freezing temperatures. Winter-proofing your plumbing should be top on your list of priorities to avoid burst pipes and the resulting property damage. A burst pipe can result in thousands of dollars worth of property damage. If you want to avoid this and truly enjoy the comfort of your cozy fireplace, you should winter-proof your plumbing. Below, we explore how to keep pipes from freezing and what to do when you’re faced with frozen pipes.

How to Keep Pipes from Freezing

When water pipes freeze, the water within them turns to ice and expands. This can cause them to burst. The leaking water in turn can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of water damage. Below are some steps you can take to avoid frozen pipes.

Insulate your pipes

Pipes that are exposed to the outside environment should be insulated to prevent freezing. Insulation can be purchased at most local hardware stores. This insulation costs only a few pennies per linear foot but can save you thousands of dollars in property damage.

Insulate basements, attics, and crawl spaces

For long-term protection of your plumbing, it is best to insulate your home. Areas that are often forgotten such as attics and basements, contain services that can freeze. Insulate these spaces to maintain higher temperatures. You will have the bonus benefit of lower energy costs in your home in the long term.

Open bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors

This will allow warm air to circulate within the cabinets and around the plumbing. This is especially important for plumbing that is on the exterior walls. A bonus benefit of doing this is preventing the buildup of moist air in cabinets and thus avoiding mold infestations.

Let water run through the pipes

Keep water moving through the pipes, especially those that are on the exterior of the home. Keeping the water moving will help to prevent freezing.

How to Unfreeze Pipes

Are your pipes frozen? If you’ve turned on your faucet and only had a few drops of water come out, your pipes may be frozen. They may require thawing out. Be careful with unfreezing your pipes as they may already have burst and you may therefore cause your home to flood. Be sure to inspect the pipes for any signs of damage.

Wondering what to do if your pipes freeze? Below are some steps to take if you discover your pipes are frozen.

Turn on the faucet. This will allow water to flow through the pipes when the area that has frozen is melted.
Apply heat to the area that is frozen using a hair dryer. Keep heat away from any flammable materials. Continue to apply heat to the pipes until normal water pressure is restored.
Check the pipes for leaks or cracks. Check to see if pools of water collect around the area that was frozen.
Contact a plumber to check your pipes and help if you are unable to locate the frozen section or unfreeze it.

Get Help from a Licensed and Experienced Plumber

Frozen pipes can wreak havoc and cause extensive damage to your property. Whether you’re seeking help to prevent pipes from freezing or are already dealing with frozen plumbing, don’t hesitate to contact us at Snofalls Plumbing for help from a licensed plumber. We’ll have our qualified, skilled, and experienced plumber come to your location as soon as possible and help you resolve the issue. Contact us now to get the assistance you need.

What is hard water and how to deal with it

January 21 2025

The Impact of Hard Water on Your Plumbing System and How to Solve It

Ken

What is Hard Water and is it really that bad? These are questions we get asked a lot, especially by homeowners. Many homeowners only become aware that they have hard water when they begin to encounter issues with their plumbing and appliances. But hard water can also be harmful to your health. Taking a proactive approach is therefore vital for protecting not just your plumbing system and appliances but also your household’s health. Below, we take a look at exactly what this entails.

Is Hard Water Bad For You?

Before answering this question, it is important to understand exactly what hard water is. It can be defined generally as water that contains high concentrations of minerals. A high concentration of magnesium and calcium is of particular concern. Calcium is good for bone growth and development in the body. Magnesium is required for many processes in the body. However, drinking hard water frequently can cause digestive issues. It can also result in other health issues such as the development of kidney stones and problems with the nervous system.

Effects of Hard Water

Hard water can greatly impact the efficiency and lifespan of appliances. It causes scale buildup. This can cause clogging or damage to components in appliances. It can also result in decreased efficiency in performance and an increase in energy consumption. Below are some specific ways that water with high mineral concentrations can impact different appliances.

Dishwashers – The buildup of scale results in poor circulation of water. This means dishes won’t be cleaned properly. You may also notice streaks and spots on dishes. Clogging and scale build-up may also result in frequent breakdowns.
Washing machines – build of scale can cause clogging of the water inlet valve and decreased cleaning efficiency. You may also need to use more detergent and notice that your clothes are stiff, dingy, and have streaks.
Water heaters – scale build-up can result in reduced efficiency and higher energy bills. Your water heater may also break down more frequently.

Do I have Hard Water? Signs That You Have Hard Water

One of the easiest ways to tell if you have hard water is by checking your plumbing for scale build-up. You may notice a white or yellow powdery substance on your showerhead, spray nozzles, or around your faucets. You may also notice a white residue on your dishes, especially glass, after cleaning them.

What to do About Hard Water

The best way of dealing with hard water is by installing a water softener. These are designed to remove excessive minerals. A whole-home softener will remove minerals from all the water coming into your home. This means that you won’t have to worry about the effects of the minerals on your appliances and plumbing. These types of softeners must be installed by a professional plumbing company to ensure efficacy and safety.

Types of Water Softeners

Ion exchange

These softeners replace the calcium and magnesium ions in the water with sodium or potassium ions, hence the name. The systems have a brine tank where the salt formed as a result of the ion exchange is stored. The beads require occasional regeneration and a flushing cycle must be run to get rid of the salt. These systems are safe, simple, and effective.

Template-assisted crystallization (TAC) technology

These salt-free softeners work by causing the production of stable crystals that aren’t known to stick to surfaces. They thus prevent scale build-up. They are capable of reducing hardness by over 90% and there is no need for regeneration or backwashing. This makes them a better option for the environment.

Magnetic and electronic water conditioners

These use an energy field to prevent the precipitation of the minerals. The minerals therefore cannot attach to surfaces and pass through without causing damage.

If you’re looking for a solution to your hard water problem, contact us, at Sno Falls Plumbing. We’d be happy to help.

November 27 2024

A Plumber’s Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning and Unclogging Drains

Ken

It’s something we take for granted, but being able to pour out dirty water into our sinks or bathrooms and watch it drain away is one of the greatest conveniences of modern society. Many of us only appreciate this convenience when faced with a slow drain. It’s enough to drive you crazy when you realize that the water isn’t draining or is draining too slowly. Below, we share our expert plumbing tips for how to clean drains and unclog them so you can get back to your day to day activities.

Tips to Clean Sink Drains in Your Kitchen

If you want to avoid the inconvenience of a slow kitchen sink drain, we recommend pouring boiling hot water down the drain weekly. This will help to melt down any fatty build up. You can also pour a cup of vinegar down the drain. Allow this to sit for at least 30 minutes and then rinse with boiling hot water.

Another way to avoid clogging is by ensuring you scrape your pots, pans and dishes clean before you wash them. This removes as much grease and debris and helps minimize build up. Use cold water to rinse your dishes. This prevents grease from melting and getting into your drain where it cools and coats the inside of the pipes.

Tips for Blocked Drain Cleaning

You don’t need harsh chemicals to unclog your kitchen sink. In fact, these chemicals are more likely to damage your plumbing and will have a negative impact on the environment. The best way to clean drain pipes is by using hot water. Fill your sink with boiling hot water and allow this to stand for about two hours. The heat, weight and pressure of the water will help to clear the clogging. You can use a plunger to dislodge the blockage if it doesn’t clear on its own.

If you believe the clogging is due to a greasy build up, repeat the above steps with a mixture of boiling hot water and vinegar. This will help to melt and dislodge the blockage. You can also use a plunger if the blockage does not dislodge on its own. Repeat the steps above once more if the drain is still slow.

Tips for Bathroom Drain Cleaning and Unclogging

Just as with kitchen sinks it is also important to carry out routine maintenance of bathroom drains. Make sure to remove hair from the drains in the sink, bathtub or shower once a month. You can use a bent wire hanger or a tool known as the Drain Weasel. Straighten your coat hanger and bend one end into a hook. Push this end into the drain and fish out as much as you can. Run very hot water into the drain thereafter.

Clean pop-up stoppers in sinks, tubs and showers at least once a month. Lift them out of the drain and clear debris. Scrub them clean using a toothbrush and rinse before replacing them.

To unclog bathroom drains, start by removing any hair or debris in the drain using your wire hanger or Drain Weasel. Pour hot water down the drain. Allow the water to stand for an hour or two. If this doesn’t work, you will need to call a plumber to address the issue.

Deodorizing Drains

Have you noticed a funky smell coming from your drains? You can deal with this odor by pouring a half cup of baking soda into the drain. Follow this with two quarts of boiling hot water. This is effective for cleaning and deodorizing kitchen sink, bathroom sink, tubs and shower drains.

Professional Unclogging and Drain Cleaning in North Bend

Are you drains giving you a headache? Call SnoFalls Plumbing for professional cleaning and unclogging of drains. We’ll get your drains flowing as quickly as possible and ensure you don’t suffer the inconvenience of clogged drains in the long term.