Plumbing discussions and local services.
duke_frost
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: When your bathroom sink ends up off-center
I get where you’re coming from, but have you ever had a tenant yank on a solid PVC trap and snap it clean off? I’ve had more luck with flexible hoses in those situations - less likely to break if someone’s rough or store...
RE: Gravel or pipe? Weird things I learned about backyard drainage
Pipe holes up or down is one of those debates I never get a clear answer on either. I lean toward holes down, mainly because every time I’ve seen someone do it the other way, they end up with silt collecting in the pipe ...
RE: Finally won the battle against invading tree roots
I get where you’re coming from with the jetting and camera checks, but have you ever had a jetter actually crack an old clay pipe? I had that happen once in a rental - turned a small root issue into a total replacement j...
RE: When is it time to swap out old pipes?
Tried that once in a duplex - patched the worst spots, lined the rest. It bought maybe two years before leaks started popping up in places we hadn’t touched. In my experience, you’re just kicking the can down the road. I...
RE: WHEN YOUR LAWN TURNS INTO A SWAMP AFTER EVERY RAINSTORM
That’s the part folks miss every time. I always ask - where’s the water supposed to go after it leaves your yard? Seen too many “drains” just dump water right at the foundation. Ever check if your downspouts are actually...
RE: How much would you pay to fix water damage from a burst pipe?
I get where you’re coming from. I’ve had similar experiences - sometimes the meter says it’s dry, but you open up a wall and find a surprise. Still, like you said, “neither is ripping out perfectly good drywall just in c...
RE: Under sink vs. countertop filters: which is less hassle to install?
Leaks under the sink are my personal nightmare - seen too many tenants call in a panic over a “tiny drip” that turned into a warped cabinet. Ever tried to track down the source of a slow leak behind a pile of cleaning su...
RE: Keeping the sink monster happy: tricks for a smoother running disposal
I’ve always wondered about citrus peels too - some folks swear by them, but I’ve seen a few disposals get jammed up from tough rinds. Has anyone had long-term luck with that, or is it just a short-term fix for smells? Al...
RE: Half flush never seems to work right - am I missing something?
I hear what you’re saying, but I’ve had a few newer dual-flush units where the half flush still didn’t cut it, even after checking for buildup or flapper issues. Maybe, but in rentals, tenants don’t always use them as i...
RE: Plumbing pros weigh in: new app promises faster fixes and fewer headaches
Tell me about it... I once relabeled my shut-off valves three times before giving up on those cheap stickers. Have you tried writing directly on the pipes with a paint pen? Not the prettiest, but at least it doesn’t peel...
RE: Plumbing pros weigh in: new app promises faster fixes and fewer headaches
I’ve had a few close calls over the years - one tiny leak under a kitchen sink turned into a nightmare for the folks below. Even in smaller units, water finds its way into the weirdest places. I do wonder, though, how ma...
RE: Battle Of The Blocked Sink: Which Magic Potion Actually Works?
I totally get where you’re coming from on the baking soda and vinegar thing - it’s like, sure, it fizzes, but does it actually clear anything? I’ve had tenants swear by it, but when I check the trap, it’s still a mess. T...
RE: Need some advice on choosing new plumbing fixtures
That vinegar story hits close to home - had a tenant do the same thing and suddenly the “spotless” faucet was missing half its finish. Couldn’t agree more. Do you folks usually go for a softener right away, or just stic...
RE: Plumber emergency: DIY quick fixes or call the pros?
Totally agree with you on the deeper clogs - those can spiral into a mess real quick. Ever had a tenant try to DIY a pipe behind drywall? I have, and trust me, drywall repairs aren't cheap or fun. Even basic stuff can ge...
RE: Drain upkeep tips after seeing that crazy news story
Agreed on the drain snake, but does anyone else worry about boiling water potentially damaging older PVC pipes? I've always stuck to warm water and dish soap just to be safe...maybe I'm overly cautious?