Undertaking home repair projects on your own can seem like a great way to put your skills to the test while saving money at the same time. There are some minor issues that don’t require the attention of a plumber—but there are also some things that you should most definitely not try to fix on your own.
If you’re a homeowner, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with common plumbing issues but know how to recognise repairs you shouldn’t undertake alone.
When is it time to ask for a professional plumber?
In the process of maintaining your house, you’ll encounter DIY-able repair jobs such as waxing your floor or repainting your walls. Projects related to plumbing and electrical wiring, however, typically require more technical knowledge. When it comes to plumbing issues, it’s important to distinguish simple matters that you can fix from complex ones that require professional help.
In this article, we will go over four plumbing situations that require the aid of an expert.
1. Performing plumbing inspections
A plumbing inspection isn’t something a novice can do on their own. After all, it requires a professional understanding of your pipelines and enough experience to spot potential problems. If you aren’t a certified plumber yourself, you don’t have the qualifications to perform plumbing inspections on your own. A professional plumbing contractor will thoroughly assess your pipeline to detect potential problems so that you can avoid expensive repairs further down the track.
2. Replacing pipework
Although the replacement of a component such as a tap or a shower head may be an easy DIY job, overhauling parts of your pipework will require professional knowledge on proper plumbing technique. This is especially true when it comes to central heating systems, as these repairs require precision and expertise.
3. Rerouting and relocating pipes
Depending on the season, your home’s pipelines can be at greater risk of damage. One wrong move with a winter plumbing fix could cause your pipes to burst and cause damage to your home. You may even find yourself needing to reroute or relocate your water pipeline while repairs are ongoing.
Similar to replacing parts in your pipeline system, rerouting pipework or relocating pipes requires proper planning in considering building regulations. That is usually done to install things, such as an additional toilet, sink, or even just another tap.
Although it’s possible to do it on your own, you shouldn’t attempt to do it for permanent installations in your home. Improperly planning your pipeline without the right plumbing principles in check can lead to a vulnerable system that’s prone to leaking or bursting.
4. Conducting sewer work
Besides being a messy job for the average homeowners, sewer work is complex and involves not just dirty wastewater but also rigging the right pressure and connection to your local sewer systems. If you attempt to fix your sewer on your own, you might end up making a mistake that requires a professional plumber anyway. Call them beforehand and get the job done right!
Conclusion
As a homeowner, it does not hurt to have some basic plumbing abilities to address minor issues and detect damage to your home’s complex systems. No matter how many taps you change, though, your DIY skill can’t compare to that of a professional plumber.
Many people try to take on complicated repairs on their own and only manage to make it worse. If you don’t want to face a bigger and more expensive repair, it’s best to consult an expert who can get the job done right the first time.
Finding a reliable company you can lean on is a necessary step in making sure that your home is in good hands. Fantastic Plumbing offers plumbing services in Byron Bay for both commercial and residential customers. Get in touch with us today, and we’ll make sure to give a professional assessment and treatment of your plumbing concerns at affordable prices.
