A Homeowner's Guide To Bathtub Plumbing
There are many different types of bathtubs that you can buy that come with different performance and features, but they all have to be installed correctly
26/05/2022
Most homeowners know how to repair their kitchen plumbing, which professionals installed successfully. But on the other hand, the bathtub plumbing is a different story altogether. Due to improper installation, these pipes can break without giving you even a hint of warning. While there are many kinds of bathtubs that you can buy that come with different performance and features, they all have to be installed correctly.
When it comes to bathtub plumbing, you need to get everything right from the installation to maintenance and any repairs. It will help avoid clogged drains, slow water flow, water flow back, and other problems associated with plumbing. In the long run, it can help you prevent health complications and other house problems such as pest infestations that come with poor plumbing. So, it's crucial to know how to spot plumbing issues and know the simple repairs you can do as a homeowner.
It can be challenging at some point, but with the right guide like this below, bathtub plumbing can be manageable for every homeowner.
1. Hire A Reputable Contractor
The first thing you
should think about when you want a bathtub in
your home is to
contact a bathroom plumber. It
doesn't mean that you have to call just any
plumber, but a reputable plumber with years of
proven experience in bathtub plumbing. A good
plumber can save you money and headaches, but a
lousy plumber can cost you time, money, and even
your home.
When looking for a plumber, check
for proper licensing, insurance, and bonding if
required in your area. Look for previous
customers who can vouch for their workmanship.
Ask if they have any complaints against them
with any consumer protection agency. By hiring a
good contractor, you can ensure that the bathtub
will be installed well and there will be no
problem with water flow in your house.
2. Consider The Location
The bathtub location is crucial in any home as it will determine how easily the water flows in and out of the tub. Therefore, you should ensure that your tub is located where it will be easy to work on. Ensuring this will save time and money in the long run. If you have to move the tub to adjust some part of it, make sure that you do so with care and caution not to damage anything else in the room.
Moreover, if you're building a new home or putting in a tub in an existing home, make sure that you have enough space to install it on level ground so that there will be no risk of mold or mildew forming under the tub.
3. Clean The Surface Regularly
A bathtub is a high-traffic area, and it's essential to keep it clean so that you don't have to repair or replace it. The most appropriate trick to do this is regular cleaning and maintenance. Use a mild detergent and a nonabrasive sponge or scrubber to clean the surface of your tub. Avoid using corrosive chemicals or abrasives, as they can scratch and damage the surface of your tub.
If you have a pop-up drain, clean it out at least once every two weeks if you use your bathtub often or once a month if you don't use it very often. You can use an enzyme cleaner in the drain to help remove organic material that builds up over time. If you notice any stains on your tub, clean them immediately with an enzyme cleaner before they become permanent marks on your tub's surface.
4. Keep The Faucet On Tight
It's essential to keep everything in tip-top shape. Your tub sits at the center of your bathroom and is a focal point in any room. The most common problem with bathtubs is loose faucets. It can cause a leaky or drippy faucet, leading to flooding if not taken care of immediately. The fix is simple, tighten down the screws on the handle and make sure they have a tight fit. If you need help identifying why your faucet is leaking or dripping, you can seek the assistance of a professional.
5. Repair Cracks As Soon As Possible
The best way to extend your bathtub's life is to repair cracks as soon as possible. Cracks in the enamel allow water to seep into the wall behind it, which can eventually cause more stressful problems like mold growth or water damage. These are most common around drain openings, which can occur due to repeated use and exposure. Repairing cracks is easy and inexpensive, but fixing them in time is essential because they can grow larger and cause more expensive damage if left unattended.
Conclusion
Proper bathtub plumbing is essential in ensuring that it serves as intended and avoids clogging or flooding in your house. The process is easy, provided you have the right tools. You should also know when to call a plumber and when to do the repairs yourself. Ensure that you stay informed to prevent you from encountering more problems down the road.