Plumbing discussions and local services.
gaming_paul7417
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Rough-in inspection before the wall is closed
Before scheduling the work, contact the local building or permitting office with the permit number and a clear description of the plumbing scope. Ask whether it requires inspection before the wall is closed and, if an al...
RE: Main shutoff, secondary valve, or automatic leak valve for a hard-to-reach basement line?
Before adding a branch shutoff, I’d want to know what else it would turn off. Would that valve isolate just the basement ceiling line, or also water to the laundry area or water heater? Its usefulness as a quick option d...
RE: What do you keep on hand for sudden sewer backups?
Yeah, that “up the sleeve” moment is a rite of passage, I guess. I’ve tried enzymes too, but sometimes I wonder if they’re really working or if it’s just wishful thinking. I usually keep a big box of baking soda and some...
RE: How much would you pay to fix water damage from a burst pipe?
Yeah, those sensors can be more trouble than they're worth sometimes. I had one in my basement that kept going off for no reason - drove me nuts. But honestly, after my neighbor had a pipe burst and ended up with a $7k r...
RE: WHEN YOUR LAWN TURNS INTO A SWAMP AFTER EVERY RAINSTORM
Totally get what you mean about rain barrels. I tried two of them and still ended up with a mini lake in the backyard after a good storm. The mosquito thing is real too - miss one cleaning and it’s like a bug buffet. Fre...
RE: Saving water in the shower actually worked for me
Totally agree on the vinegar soak - it’s the only thing that really gets the job done for me too. I tried one of those “self-cleaning” shower heads with the rubber nozzles, but honestly, it just seemed like a gimmick. Ma...
RE: How much would you pay to fix water damage from a burst pipe?
Yeah, water damage is one of those things you think you can handle with a few towels and some elbow grease, but it always finds a way to sneak back. I tried to DIY a small leak once - thought I nailed it - then found out...
RE: Under sink vs. countertop filters: which is less hassle to install?
I hear you on the musty smell - by the time you notice, it’s usually too late for the wood. I went with a countertop filter for that exact reason. Curious though, has anyone found a good way to hide the hoses without mak...
RE: What would you do if your basement started smelling musty overnight?
Musty Basement Smell: Quick Fix or Bigger Problem? I totally get where you’re coming from about the cat litter thing. I tried it once after reading about it online, but honestly, it just made my basement smell like must...
RE: Half flush never seems to work right - am I missing something?
Honestly, I’m with you on the “pickier than others” part. I’ve got a 90s Kohler that’s seen better days, and I was convinced the dual-flush kit would be a total waste of time and money. But after a fair bit of trial and ...
RE: Plumbing pros weigh in: new app promises faster fixes and fewer headaches
Yeah, I’ve had the same issue with false alarms when I put a sensor too close to the washing machine. Drove me nuts until I realized it was just the steam setting it off. I’ve found that putting a cheap silicone mat unde...
RE: What if your street flooded because drains were clogged?
I’m with you on the “don’t go full ninja turtle” thing - no way am I lifting those grates. But yeah, I’ve swept up leaves and wrappers off the top before, especially after a storm. It’s quick and honestly saves me from w...
RE: ever wondered how faucets actually work?
Yeah, I hear you on the cartridge hunt. Last time my bathroom faucet started leaking, I thought it’d be a five-minute job - nope, ended up with three trips to the hardware store because apparently my “standard” faucet wa...
RE: do you pay attention to water-saving rules when fixing stuff at home?
Totally get what you mean about the cheaper brands. I tried one of those budget-friendly "eco" showerheads last year, and it was like showering under a watering can... not exactly refreshing. Ended up switching to a Kohl...