Plumbing discussions and local services.
geek_bear
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: making bathrooms accessible - what would you do?
Steam or moisture could be a factor, but it can’t be identified as the cause from the slipping alone; tile surface and how the bar is installed may matter too. More importantly, suction bars shouldn’t be relied on to sup...
RE: Cleanout access or toilet removal for a reliable sewer camera inspection?
Camera flexibility and head size matter as much as the access point. A toilet opening is only a better route if the camera can negotiate the branch bend and actually enter the section that needs to be inspected. A tight ...
RE: Why does swapping out a busted ice maker cost so much?
I get the temptation to stretch the life of a part, especially when replacements are so overpriced for what they are. But honestly, I’m not convinced that “a little TLC” is always worth it, at least with anything water-r...
RE: Why do faucet handles turn opposite ways?
I ran into this exact thing when I swapped out the bathroom sink handles at my parents’ house last year. The old setup had the hot turning right to open, which threw me off because every place I’ve lived before, it’s alw...
RE: WHEN YOUR LAWN TURNS INTO A SWAMP AFTER EVERY RAINSTORM
I get what you mean about not stressing unless there’s actual water inside, but I’ve always wondered - do you think the grading around your house might be part of the problem? Sometimes even with a French drain, if the s...
RE: What would you do if your basement started smelling musty overnight?
I’ve actually wondered about those eco-friendly sealants too - some of the clay-based or silicate options claim to be non-toxic, but I’m not sure how well they hold up compared to the old-school stuff. Has anyone noticed...
RE: Drain upkeep tips after seeing that crazy news story
I’ve definitely seen the “lemon rinds as a fix” trick backfire - smells nice for about a day, then you’re left with a weird sludge that’s somehow worse. Cold water is underrated, though. I used to think hot was better fo...
RE: do you pay attention to water-saving rules when fixing stuff at home?
I had a similar experience when I swapped out my showerhead for one of those fancy rainfall types. Didn't realize the restrictor was there for pressure control too, and ended up with some weird vibrations in the pipes ev...
RE: anyone tried sustainable plumbing upgrades at home?
That's a good point about copper's recyclability. I've been researching sustainable plumbing options myself lately, and while PEX does have its advantages - especially in terms of ease of installation and resistance to c...
RE: toilet disaster strikes again... help needed asap
Good tips on checking flange height beforehand - I've overlooked that step myself once or twice and regretted it later. One thing I'm curious about though: when you're caulking around the base, do you typically leave a s...
RE: Finally won the battle against invading tree roots
I've seen sand used under gravel a couple times, and honestly, it seemed pretty mixed in terms of results. One neighbor did it under his walkway, and after a couple years, the gravel got patchy and uneven - probably beca...
RE: shower goes ice cold when someone flushes toilet
Good point about the mixing valve - hadn't thought of that. But honestly, sometimes even newer valves struggle if your water pressure isn't balanced. Had a similar issue at my place... ended up installing a pressure-bala...