Category: Plumbing

Water Leak Detection

Are you experiencing unexplained high water bills?

Water leaks can be difficult to find and are often in places which are either hard to get to or difficult to trace the source. Leaks can often occur behind walls or under slabs, in sewer pipes or stormwater drains, and can be the result of a blocked drain, burst pipe or faulty plumbing fixtures.

Types of water leaks

The fresh water coming into your home runs under pressure through the mains water pipe which means a burst pipe can quickly become a huge issue in your home. The waste water leaving your home through the sewer system (everything that goes down the sink, toilet, bath, shower, etc.) and the rainwater travelling through the stormwater drains is gravity fed which usually leads to slower leaks (unless it has been raining or your have a blocked drain)

With this in mind, there are generally 3 different types of water leaks:

Stormwater leak: Is this leak only occurring when it is raining? If so, it is likely a stormwater leak.

Sewer Leak: Does the leak have a bad odour? If so, it is commonly a sewer leak.

Water Supply: Does the water bubble up? If so, it is likely a water supply leak.

Finding the leak

Apart from high water expenses, there are many other signs to look out for that could indicate that your pipes have burst or you have a broken drain.

Checking the meter

Set aside a period where you won’t need water for at least two hours. Turn off all the taps throughout your property and home, and switch off any water using appliances (such as the dishwasher, washing machine and hot water system*). Take a note of the meter reading of your home’s water meter then re-read the meter after two hours. If the reading has changed you could have a leak in the mains water pipe.

 

Leak Detection

Have you noticed an unexpected rise in your water bill, but you don’t know why? Maybe your basement is flooded, or your wall is suddenly wet? You may have a leak you are not aware of, and you need experienced plumbers to determine the problem and conduct a prompt and efficient repair.

You can count on our leak detection Sydney to provide prompt and efficient plumbing service any time you need it. We will be at your place at the scheduled time to get your problem resolved. Our services are available 24 hours a day, so even if there is an emergency, you can be sure that we will be at your address as soon as possible.

Commercial Property Leak Detection

Pipelines in commercial properties may cause more problems than you can expect. Closing your company for a couple of days will cause you to lose valuable time and money. On the other side, if the leaks don’t surface immediately they can be hard to pinpoint, and you will have to pay the rising water bills.

Water and Gas Leak Detection

We have been working on different projects that included leak detection for water as well as gas pipelines. No matter if you started hearing noise from your water pipes, or you started smelling the gas, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

If left unsolved for a long time, water leaks can seriously damage your property, and there will be much more costly repairs, especially if it shows up near porous surfaces like carpets, wooden floors, drywalls, etc. Because of that, it is important to regularly check your pipelines and water utilities,

 

Leak Detection

Water Leak Testing, Leak Detection, and Pipe Leak Repairs

DFW Pipe & Plumbing & Plumbing specializes in under slab hot or cold water leak detection and location services. We are at the forefront of our industry and take pride that we can also offer our customers various types of repair options

The Signs of a Water Leak

These include the following:

Unexplained puddles of water appearing within a building or home

Wood floors that appear to be buckling

Warm spot on the floor

Standing water outside or even a soggy lawn

Unexplained hissing or a whooshing sound usually caused by water rapidly exiting at the leak location in the pressurized pipe

A steady or sudden rise in water usage and water bill increases

NOTE:

Due to pressure limitations within the pipe, the depth of the pipe and the surface above the leaking pipe, such as a concrete slab foundation or yard line, a homeowner may not hear or see the sign(s) of a water pipe or main line leak.

What Can a Homeowner Do…

To verify a possible water leak or just to make sure there isn’t one:

Ensure that all water is off in the home; such as: faucets & fixtures, dishwasher, washing machine, etc. etc.

Repair or shut off the angle stop where there are any dripping faucets and/or running toilets as this could also be a sign of a water leak

Inspect the gauge on the city water meter, movement on the gauge would indicate a water leak. Even if the city water meter gauge is not immediately moving, note the position and wait about 15 minutes and check the meter again, if it has moved, even the slightest, this could signify a very slow leak.

Water Leak Detection & Isolation

Plumbing will commence by verifying the existence of the suspected fresh water pipe leak(s) by performing a pressure test on the water system then proceed with pinpointing the location of the leak. Utilizing Electronic Line Tracing equipment ensures that a pipe is present and the path of the plumbing pipe is traced. Air is also introduced into the plumbing pipe (if needed), to aid in discovery. Then while operating Acoustic Leak Detection equipment where the sound is electronically amplified, we continue to track the amplification of the pipe leak while tracing the presence of the pipe in the slab to the location where the leak reverberates the loudest, pinpointing the location of the pipe and the under slab plumbing leak.

Once the plumbing leak has been found, suitable repair option(s) can be recommended and estimate(s) are provided for each type of repair, where the homeowner can choose what is suitable for their situation. These pipe repair methods are mentioned below.

 

Electronic Leak Detection

Many homeowners are surprised to know that sound can be the key factor when trying to find a plumbing leak. When a faucet is turned on it will create a sound as the water travels through a pipe in the plumbing (very obvious sound when a fixture is turned on upstairs).

If there is a leak in a pipe, then sound will also be created when the water pours out of the leak, and this can occur even if the leak is only the size of a pinhole. Obviously with a tiny leak the sound will not be loud like an open faucet, so for us to hear the sound of water movement we use modern technology.

As long as we can isolate a system and pressure test it, then leaks can be detected using electronics. Of course the more accurately we can pinpoint a leak, the less damage required to access the leak which saves time and money.

Electronic Leak Detection Equipment

This type of plumbing service requires expert plumbing techs with years of experience in leak detection. Streamline Plumbing uses modern equipment that will amplify the sound of moving water using microphones, digital amplifiers, and filters, which allow the leaking pipe to be identified at your home.

Electronic Line Location

Locating your sewer line is no longer a guessing game because Streamline Plumbing uses the best modern equipment to locate the elusive sewer line in a very short time. Most older homes have the sewer lines buried underground and can be difficult to find

 

LEAK DETECTION AND REPAIR

If your home has a leak in a water pipe, drain, or main line, it’s important to call a professional plumber experienced in leak detection and repair right away. Water leaks can cause serious damage to your home and furnishings, and some can even cause health hazards.

Plumbing Detect Leaks?

Visual inspection— This is what we start with to see if there are any signs that point to the location of the leak.

Sewer camera inspection— A small camera on the end of a device like a plumber’s snake is pushed through the pipes to find out where the leaks are.

Electronic leak location — A low-voltage device picks up and amplifies the sounds that leaks make. We can use electronic detection to find even small pinhole leaks in pipes and lines.

Pressure test — This can be done on the whole water system and can also be used for detecting leaks in sewer lines and gas lines.

Plumbing Repair Leaks?

Spot repair — The site of the leak is exposed for spot repairs. This could be done by opening up the foundation slab, accessing the pipe through a wall, or digging up a spot in the yard.

Re-piping — If a whole pipe or line is in bad condition, it can be replaced entirely.

Epoxy pipe coating — We only recommend pipe coating in unique situations, like patching small leaks in yards where plumbing runs under retaining walls. This method involves using an epoxy resin to coat the inside of an existing pipe to patch it.  If the pipes are not in perfect alignment or if there is a low spot in the line, epoxy pipe coating usually isn’t a good choice.

Pipe Bursting — Pipe bursting is a method of repair where a pipe sleeve is placed in the pipe then pressed against the walls of the existing pipe by a balloon. Pipe bursting is only used in select instances.  Improper sloping of a pipe and pipes that are not in alignment cannot be repaired using this technique

The most effective repair method for yard leaks is to dig down to the pipe to replace the bad section.  If a leak is repaired by a skilled plumber who uses quality materials, you’re unlikely to have a problem again. No matter where the leak is, our policy is to use the best method of repair to fix the problem for the long-term, while keeping disruption of your life to a minimum.

How to Choose a Garbage Disposal

It’s hard to imagine getting by without a garbage disposal nowadays. Garbage disposals (sometimes called garbage disposers, depending on where you live) are strictly essential, but they save you quite a bit of dirty work and make cleaning dishes a lot more pleasant than it would otherwise be. If you’re building a new home, replacing a broken garbage disposal or simply want to upgrade your garbage disposal, you’ll want to know the different options that are available in today’s garbage disposals before you make your choice. Keep reading for some information on the options that are available and how you can choose a garbage disposal that works for your home.

Weigh the differences between types of garbage disposals.

Garbage disposals come in two different basic designs: continuous feed garbage disposals and batch feed garbage disposals. Continuous feed disposals run as long as the switch is flipped, so you can funnel food into the disposal while it’s still on. Batch feed disposals only turn on when you put the disposal cover in place, so you run the disposal one batch at a time. Continuous feed sink disposals are the most common kind of disposal since they are convenient and relatively inexpensive. However, some people prefer batch feed sink disposals since they won’t turn on unless the cover is on, eliminating the risk of injury or flying particles.

Choose the level of horsepower you want for your garbage disposal.

The biggest difference between the least expensive and most expensive garbage disposal is horsepower. The most basic garbage disposals have as low as 1/4 horsepower motors, and the most powerful disposals have 1 horsepower motors; however, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the 1 horsepower models are the best garbage disposals available. If your household has few members and you don’t work your disposal very hard, then you can probably get away with a 1/4 horsepower or 1/3 horsepower model. Of course, if you want to be able to grind chicken bones and you have a larger family, a 1 horsepower garbage disposal may be a wise choice.

Consider how noisy you want your garbage disposal to be.

Sink garbage disposals are known for being noisy, but modern disposals have come a long way in terms of noise reduction. Many of the high-end sink garbage disposals have noise-dampening materials that significantly reduce the rumble that usually accompanies operating a disposal. If you want a quiet garbage disposal, you will have to pay extra. If noise is a key factor, look around for quiet garbage disposals. If saving money is more important, you can find plenty of garbage disposals that do a great, loud job

Decide whether you want a garbage disposal with stainless steel parts.

A garbage disposal repair often comes up when some piece or another inside the disposal becomes corroded after years of exposure to water and food. Garbage disposals made with stainless steel components can help you avoid these kinds of repairs. Since stainless steel resists corrosion, garbage disposals made with stainless steel grinders can last significantly longer than disposals made with other materials.

Garbage Disposal Buying Guide

Garbage disposals do double duty, meeting the often competing demands of convenience and conservation. They pulverize leftovers and other food waste—from peach pits to corn cobs to fish bones—so you can send them down the drain instead of hauling them into the trash, reducing waste and odors, and the critters they can attract.

Apart from convenience, washing food waste down the drain also means it doesn’t end up in landfills, where it can emit harmful greenhouse gases as it slowly breaks down. Instead, food waste ends up at a wastewater treatment plant (unless you have a septic system), where, when processed the right way, it’s even more environmentally friendly than composting.

How We Test Garbage Disposals

Consumer Reports tests garbage disposals on a number of factors. For our speed test, we grind pieces of beef rib bones for 1 minute with cold running water, then measure how much food is left in the disposal. The more food that’s left, the longer it takes to grind and the lower the score.

To see how well the disposals grind food, we toss a mix of bones and raw vegetable scraps into each model and run the resulting fragments through four different-sized sieves to gauge fineness. A garbage disposal that garners an Excellent rating turns out food particles fine enough to slip through most of the sieves. If bigger bits are left over, there’s a greater chance the kitchen sink drain will clog—and that model will receive a lower score in this test.

Are my pipes up to the task? Food debris might not present a problem in a newer home with slippery plastic drainpipes, but clog risks go up substantially if you have rugged old cast-iron drainpipes. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping became more commonplace in homes built after the mid-1970s. One general rule of thumb: If your pipes already clog fairly often, a disposal might not be for you.

How to Select a Garbage Disposal

To many of us, the garbage disposal is one of the best kitchen appliances. It not only saves you from having to scrape off every bit of food from each and every dish, but it also lets you do the dishes without worrying about small pieces of food clogging your sink drain.

Garbage disposals are pretty simple devices so you don’t have to spend a lot of time narrowing down what you want. You can quickly select the feed type, motor size, and a few other features that fit your use and your budget. You also don’t have to spend a lot to get solid performance, but it’s a good idea to buy a quality product ad to keep the disposal clean. Better disposers are more effective and last longer than cheaper models, which means you won’t have the expense and effort of replacing it as soon.

Components of Design

Invented in 1927 by John Hammes, the garbage disposal hasn’t changed much over the years. A classic version is little more than a plastic housing containing a motor connected to a metal grinding plate with two “teeth” (called impellers) that help break down the food waste. The plate is surrounded by a perforated metal ring called the grinding ring. As the waste is ground up, water flushes the particles through holes in the grinding ring, out through the discharge opening of the housing, and into the drain pipe. The impellers help the grinding process, but they aren’t sharp and they don’t cut up food as a blender does; rather, they and the spinning plate force the food against the grinding ring, which is stationary and has a textured surface that breaks down the material.

Feed Type

Disposals come in two basic types: continuous feed and batch feed. Continuous feed disposals are the most common and generally the easiest to use. They are the open-mouth disposals that turn on and off with a wall switch. Batch feed disposals require you to fit a stopper lid into the mouth of the disposal to activate the unit. This makes it impossible to turn on the disposal while your hand is fishing down inside the unit. It also helps prevent accidental mishaps like turning on the disposal just as a fork is slipping into its mouth. Batch feed disposals can be more expensive than continuous feed and generally are less commonly available.

Motor Size

The motor size of a disposal is rated in horsepower (HP). Standard sizes include 1/3 HP, 1/2 HP, 3/4 HP, and 1 HP. For most households, 1/2 HP is plenty of power, but paying a bit more for a 3/4 to 1 HP motor can mean fewer jams and smoother operation, especially if you tend to be hard on your disposal. If you don’t want to worry about what goes into the disposal, lean toward a larger motor.

Garbage Disposal Buying Guide

Garbage disposals—sometimes called garbage disposers—are a cook’s best friend, grinding up and washing away kitchen refuse with the touch of a switch. If you are in the market for a new garbage disposal, this garbage disposal buying guide will show you that choosing one is a very simple process because your choices are limited

From an environmental point of view, garbage disposals have pluses and minuses. They help minimize the amount of garbage that is delivered to landfills, but, in doing so, they require using significantly more water and energy, and they can strain septic systems and sewage treatment facilities. A good compromise is to compost food scraps whenever possible and use a disposer when not.

All garbage disposals sold in the United States are made by only a few companies, though they are branded with several names. InSinkErator makes eight out of 10 of them, with consumer ratings favoring the Waste King and Kenmore models in their group

Disposal Grinding Power

Power, for example, makes a big difference both in performance and durability. At the low end, you can buy 1/3-horsepower units, but we recommend that you spend a little more to get a lot more.

Disposal Connections and Switches

Most garbage disposals interlock at the bottom of a sink’s standard drain outlet and are designed for easy connection. Various adapters and connection kits are available. They must be hard-wired or plugged into to a 120-volt receptacle with a 3- to 6-foot power cord that sometimes must be ordered separately. And they are connected to a drain pipe.

Tips for Choosing a Garbage Disposal

There’s no doubt that it’s very useful to have a garbage disposal in your kitchen. However, you need to be sure that you choose the right garbage disposal for your own specific requirements. When you look for a garbage disposal, you will find that there are many models available. Finding the right garbage disposal is quite easy once you know a little bit about them.

Regulations

The first thing to determine is whether local regulations allow you to actually have a garbage disposal. If you’re simply replacing an old model, this is unimportant. However, if you’re putting in a brand new unit where you haven’t had a garbage disposal before, remember to check beforehand. Not all areas allow for the installation of garbage disposals because of the increased strain they place on sewer lines.

Plumbing

Will your plumbing handle a garbage disposal? Not all existing plumbing will so take the time to check first. It’s also important to check your fixtures to discover what types of garbage disposal will be compatible with your current plumbing and sewer system.

Motor Size

Many small garbage disposals come with a motor that’s just 1/3 horsepower. While that may be fine if you’re a single person in an apartment, you need something more powerful for a family home where the garbage disposal will be used more. You should ideally look for a unit that has a 1/2 horsepower motor. With a big house and plenty of people, you might even want a 1 horsepower motor on your garbage disposal.

Stainless Steel

Look for a garbage disposal with stainless steel blades. These are harder and sharper and will not only last longer, but will grind up the food more finely so you won’t have to deal with clogs in the pipes. Cheaper units will use far less stainless steel in their construction and are likely to wear out sooner. Bear this in mind as you check out units.

Selecting the best leak detection equipment

Although I didnt have to resort to my third method, it consists of an ultrasonic leak detector like the type used to locate leaks in refrigerant or compressed gas systems. It requires you to pump compressed air or

Although I didn’t have to resort to my third method, it consists of an ultrasonic leak detector like the type used to locate leaks in refrigerant or compressed gas systems. It requires you to pump compressed air or another denser gas such as carbon dioxide into the system; this produces a high-pitched squeal when it escapes from the pipe

I have seen people using this method and a conventional engine-type stethoscope to locate leaks. You can spend a lot of time on your hands and knees for naught. Most of the new electronic leak detectors have extension handles on them to keep the operator in an upright and comfortable position

The only problem with this type of device is that you typically have 4 in. of sound-deadening concrete between you and the leak. While it doesn’t work perfectly in every case, it can come in handy as a backup method if all else fails.

Although I’ve never personally used this last method, I understand that you can charge the system with a benign gas, such as helium, nitrogen or carbon dioxide. Using a gas-sniffing type of detector, you can locate the leak through the concrete. Since I’ve never used it, I’m not sure of the accuracy of this system.

HOW TO CHOOSE AN EXPERIENCED LEAK DETECTION SPECIALIST

Leak detection is a critical service that home and building owners can utilize to detect problems in their plumbing, HVAC systems, and sewer lines. An experienced leak detection specialist can specifically identify and isolate problems in your home without needing to completely excavate and damage your property, saving you time, headaches, and money.

On the other hand, taking a chance on a new or inexperienced leak detection service could end up costing you hundreds of dollars if they make a mistake. Taking a stethoscope to a wall is a far cry from a professional’s tool bag of high-tech thermal, smoke, and electronic leak detection devices. Ask about the company’s equipment and process or their strategy for finding your suspected type of leak.

Furthermore, an experienced specialist will have an extensive list of references that they’d be willing to share with you before starting service. Beware any service that hesitates to show you their references or testimonials. Companies that don’t provide them probably have bad references or are a brand new business without any notable experience.

Clearwater Leak Detection has extensive experience serving the entire Puget Sound region with the latest leak detection techniques and technology. With thermal imagery, smoke machine leak detectors, and the ability to fix most leaks on-site and in a timely fashion, we can get your problem solved and restore your property to normal status once again.

WATER LEAK DETECTION SERVICES AND SLAB LEAK REPAIR

Water leaks from pipes, plumbing fixtures and fittings are a significant source of wasted water for many households. Without early leak detection and leak repair, ongoing water leaks can cause significant water damage. Roto-Rooter specializes in water leak detection and water leak repairs. Our team has all the water leak detection and slab leak repair equipment necessary to perform accurate and timely electronic leak detection and repair. We can locate and diagnose the source of water leaks and advise homeowners on a variety of leak repair options. From leaks in your slab to leaks in your pipes, we’ve got you covered

Slab leak detection and repair requires an experienced plumbing expert and a careful, thorough process using modern tools like specialized leak detection equipment. Slab leak detection services are conducted by Roto-Rooter’s expert technicians, who will find and repair slab leaks with minimal destruction to your property.

A slab leak happens when the pipes in the water and sewer lines beneath your home break, crack or burst. The leak is not actually in the slab, but in the pipes beneath it. Because it is underground, the source of a slab leak is not visible to the naked eye

Rather, there are several common signs that suggest you have a slab leak in your home:

The sound of running water when all water is turned off

A spinning water meter, even though no water is running inside or outside your home

Cracks in your walls or flooring

Mildew or noticeable moisture under carpets or flooring

The smell of sewage could indicate a break in the sewer or a drain line

A recent bug problem due to added ground moisture

Higher-than-average water bills

Best water leak detectors for smart homes

Fire might be a homeowner’s greatest fear, but any insurance company will tell you that water is the far more common cause of property damage, even if you don’t live in an area subject to flooding. And it can come from many sources: A failing water heater, a burst pipe, a broken supply line under your sink, a clogged toilet, or even a split hose connected to your washing machine.

Just as it’s essential to have a smoke detector in each of your home’s bedrooms and common areas, you’d be wise to install leak detectors in places where water damage could start: The laundry room, water heater closet, the bathroom, under your kitchen sink, and so on. Leak alerts are arguably less important for renters, but it’s something landlords might want to consider—although that raises the issue of how the sensors would connect to the internet. More on that later.

In addition to detecting and nearly instantaneously alerting you to the presence of water in locations it shouldn’t be, this sensor will also monitor the relative humidity of the space around its installation (warning you of conditions with the potential to spur mold growth) and ambient temperature (prompting you to take action if cold weather might freeze your water pipes). If you have one installed, it will also trigger a Flo by Moen Smart Water Shutoff to turn off your main water supply to reduce the damage an uncontrolled leak can cause. It’s our new top pick in this category.

Best smart water leak detector

The Flo by Moen Smart Water Detector monitors for the presence water in locations it shouldn’t be (from a leaky supply line, appliance, or drain pipe), tracks ambient temperatures and can warn you of freezing conditions that could lead to a burst water pipe, and reports ambient humidity and raises an alarm if the air becomes so moist that it could lead to to the growth of mold. You’ll get the most benefit from the device if you also own the Flo by Moen Smart Water Shutoff, which can automatically turn off your water supply in an emergency, but it’s a great smart home device even if you don’t.

Runner-up

This was a tough call, because the Utilitech Water Leak Detector has some major downsides. Its battery life only lasts for a year, and the sensor must be mounted on a wall or other vertical surface, making setup a hassle and limiting your placement options.

Best HVAC Refrigerant Leak Detectors

Refrigerant leak detectors are an HVAC technician’s best friend. Your ability to diagnose and rectify a problem within a refrigeration system is a vital skill.  You will need the very best tools to accomplish one the challenging aspects of the job, detecting refrigerant leaks.

Leak Detection Methods

As an HVAC technician, you are probably aware of the several methods you can use for leak detection. Knowing which method to use in each set of circumstances is the making of a skilled technician.

Common Refrigeration Leak Detection Methods:

Simple soap and water – Applying soapy water to a suspected leak alerts you to the leak with the formation of bubbles. Simple and straightforward to use and no specialist tools required.

Ultraviolet Dyes – Adding a UV dye to a system and using UV light to look for leaks is ingenious. Should be used with care because the presence of UV dye may affect system performance.

Electronic Detection Methods – Use electronic tools correctly and in the right context and you are on your way to becoming a leak detection whizz.

How to Choose a Leak Detector

It is essential that you choose the best refrigerant leak detector that suits your requirements. But what are the qualities that you should look for before selecting a product?

Works Fast

A device that works fast is considered the best leak detector as it allows you to reach different locations to check on leaks quickly. You should look for detectors with little warm-up time, quality sensors, and instantaneous time response

Steps For Choosing The Best Roofing Contractor

A house is a safe haven which protects your family from harsh weather and provides security. Compromising your family with the use of poor quality roofing solutions can be costly and risky too. That’s why its advisable to use good quality roofing services and ensure you obtain good workmanship. Getting roofing repairs every now and then is a costly affair

Looking for a roofing contractor.

Word of mouth is always the best method of acquiring accurate details of a contractor. Friends, family & relatives, colleagues and neighbors can be a great source of information. Ask them about the roofing contractor they’ve used in the past. They will be more than willing to assist you.

License Verification

Check if he has a license and if yes, check whether its up-to-date. This can be done by contacting the license board. The contractors’ website is also another great source where you can check the type of licensing required for roofing contractors.

Ask for his identification documents

He should prove that he is legal by giving you his business address, tax identification number or his phone number.

Check if he has an Insurance cover

The insurance should include a worker’s compensation and liability coverage. Its not a good idea to hire an uninsured contractor.

Things to Look for in Picking a Roofer

A few tips for when you are looking to repair your roof

This past Sunday, much of Denton County was bombarded by high winds and hail stones. You may have experienced some roof damage after the storms. When picking a company to repair the damage to your house, make sure you pick a reputable company.

Here is a check list of eight questions you should ask before choosing a roofer:

1) Are they local or in the area?  Are they close enough to come back for follow ups?

2) How long have they been in business?  Do they have the experience to get the work done?  It takes several years in any business to be considered experienced.

3) Do you know them or have they worked for someone that you know?  Be familiar with the roofer and their clients.

4) Do their clients refer them?  Check their past track record with friends or acquaintances.  Was the work satisfactory?

5) Can they do the type of work you need?  Not all work is the same, your style of shingle, type of construction, pitch of the roof.  More unusual houses sometimes cost more.

6) Are they insured or bonded? This way, should something go wrong or the work is never completed, you are protected.

7) Don’t let price be the only determinant; but instead consider value which is a combination of price and all the other issues that need to be addressed.

8) Consider several options and check references. Get a few bids from different contractors. Going with the cheapest option is not necessarily the best option. Do a little research to check which bid also has the best references

Having a damaged roof can be stressful. However, rushing who you pick to do repairs can end up causing even more headaches. A little due diligence in choosing a contractor, can make a world of difference.

Mistakes When Choosing a Roofer

Do you need to replace your roof or have it repaired? Investing in your roof is a major expense. It’s important to make sure you do your research and choose a reputable, experienced contractor to complete the work.

For many homeowners, the options can seem daunting. Many individuals who call themselves professional roofers are actually “fly-by-night” contractors, swindling homeowners before disappearing. So how can you be sure you’re making the

right decision?

Location: Beware of door-to-door roofers. A legitimate, well-established roofing company will have a physical location out of which they operate. If they give you a PO box, make sure you follow up and request their actual address.

Read Customer Reviews: There’s no better barometer than the experiences of previous customers. Many residential roofing companies will post customer testimonials on their website, though you should also visit third-party sources like HomeStars.

Check out the Company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating: BBB’s database helps people find local, reputable businesses. A company’s BBB profile will include current and resolved complaints and customer reviews.

How To Choose The Best Roofer

Choosing the best roofer for a home should be a concentrated and intense search; after all, the average homeowner replaces his roof well, he never replaces it.   And his search is therefore not for a competent roofer, but for the best there is.  This is a lifetime investment hes deciding upon.   And surprisingly enough, the rules that usually apply to getting a good deal in other areas may not be the best ideas, or yield the best deal, in this case.

The first rule most people have whenever theyre buying anything is to buy it from whoever gives the cheapest price.  Statistically, however, the best roofers are not cheap.  The cheapest roofer isnt likely to do the best or most permanent job.  His business may be a novice one and just getting off the ground; the temptation that hits many new companies is to offer the cheapest bids on contractual jobs such as roofing.  How do they make the bid work?  They use the cheapest materials and cut corners, definitely not what one wants in a lifetime investment.

Since one doesnt want a new roofer to work at the homeowners expense, its best to shop around for a middle – of – the – road price range, and a roofer that has credentials, references and a portfolio (all of which should be on his website) showing that he does good, competent and long – lasting work.   Obviously the best roofers still want to stay in business, and that means offering competitive prices, but they still will do the job in the best and most competent way after all, their reputation follows them.

The second rule most people have is, local businesses are not as good as a national chain.  Again, not true.  Local roofers are usually the ones who have the inside information on permits and insurance for roofing.  For example, in a hurricane – prone area, the licenses, permits and insurance will be far different, and probably more expensive, than other areas of the country.  A local man will know the ins and outs of the business far more effectively than a national chain will

The third rule:  avoid family businesses, since they rip you off if youre not family.  This one is absolutely untrue; a generational roofing business is ideal to use.  It has been around for quite a while, no one employed there is a novice just learning his trade, and the business has, in all probability, a sterling reputation with the local community .  Theyve been at it long enough that they know what theyre good at, and so do their customers.

ADVICE ON CHOOSING A CONTRACTOR

When choosing a roofing contractor you should consider your choice very carefully and you are advised to check them out before employing them. If you employ a good reputable roofing contractor in terms of price, reliability and workmanship, the potential for problems will be greatly reduced.

ALSO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING POINTS:

Select up to three contractors to look at the job. If possible, obtain recommendations from family, friends, neighbours or a reputable trade association.

Ask each of them to give advice on which materials they would suggest using.

Invite quotes from each contractor but do not automatically take the cheapest option. Base your choice on the quality of the advice given and your confidence in the contractor. Also, if in doubt, consult your local NFRC Regional Manager.

Ask for a guarantee on new or refurbishment work. NFRC offers guarantee schemes which back up, but are independent of, the contractor’s own guarantee. Remember that even the best contractors can go out of business whereupon their own guarantees become worthless, so make sure you will be covered.

Ensure that the quote or estimate selected is given to you in writing – except possibly for small emergency repairs.

Bear in mind that ‘estimates’ for refurbishment work can change once the chosen contractor has removed the main covering (e.g. tiles/ slates) to expose the sub-structure underneath.

Agree payment terms before the work commences. Be careful on upfront payments ensure you know what you are getting for any upfront payment. It may be difficult to get monies back. Contractors offering cash / VAT-free deals are not easily tracked down if things go wrong.

Don’t expect to obtain free advice from contractors, unless you have a real intention to assign the contract to them.

Remember that a property owner is responsible for any planning permission that may be required on that property.

Please be aware that when carrying out refurbishment work to 50% or more of a roof’s area that either a CompetentRoofer (a Competent Person Scheme for roofing) must be employed or your Local Authority Building Control must be contacted prior to work starting. This is in order to confirm that the roof should be upgraded to meet thermal requirements of Part L of the current Building Regulations.