Why SERVPRO? Your Plumbing Questions Answered

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

While leasing or renting a house or apartment can be a great source of extra income, maintenance can be a significant source of overhead expenses. The most effective cost-reducing measures are usually the most timely, so inspect and maintain your polybutylene plumbing and other water fixtures with the following advice.

1. Material Concerns

Polybutylene pipes are no longer permissible under the provisions of most United States building codes. While they were somewhat common in installations made from the 1970s to the 1990s due to their cost-effectiveness and flexibility, they tend to present leakage issues over time. This appears to occur due to various chlorine compounds that cause progressive damage, especially at joints. If you own a rental property ensure that any such plastic or resin pipe materials are in good condition.

2. Upkeep and Tenants

An overworked plumbing system can cause problems even if more standard materials such as copper or PVC were used in construction. Advise tenants only to flush biodegradable materials approved for your septic tank or city sewer. From time to time, plunging or chemical drain cleaning may be necessary due to the accumulation of non-soluble substances such as lipids or hair. Ideally, mechanical removal of clogs with a drain snake will lead to less damage than caustic cleaners. Enzyme-based drain cleaners are also available as an alternative.

3. Unavoidable Problems

Sometimes water damage comes from an external source, such as weather-induced basement flooding or invasive tree roots. In these cases, it may be prudent to contact a qualified flood restoration specialist once the source of the water leakage has been repaired. Professional services can help you dry sensitive materials affected by a flood and reduce the risk of mold problems in the future.

Legacy building materials like polybutylene don’t have to be a headache if properly inspected and maintained. Prevent costly downtime and keep tenants happy by remembering the above guidelines.