So, you have a leaky pipe and want to save some cash to fix it yourself. Every day, well-intentioned homeowners walk through the doors of home improvement stores armed with determination and the desire to prove their DIY skills. Unfortunately, when it comes to plumbing repairs, going the DIY route might prove full of obstacles and could become rather expensive. Check out the following DIY hazards and why calling for professional plumbing services is always recommended.
Do You Have the Right Tools?
You must have the correct tools for the job. 9 times out of 10, people attempt to fix a leaky toilet or repair a broken garbage disposal without having the proper tools. Using a butter knife as a flathead screwdriver just won't cut it—literally. When people compromise on the tools they use, they often end up with injuries such as cuts, broken appendages, and a host of other problems.
The bottom line? If you don't have the right tools, call a plumber.
Are You Relying on How-To Videos?
The Internet is filled with a lot of information and much more misinformation. People are well-meaning and want to help their fellow DIYers by uploading how to videos such as how to install a shower head. However, many times these videos don't tell the whole story. For example, the so-called DIY-homeowner might actually have a plumbing license and you don't. Take it from the pros. It's always better to rely on skill, expertise, and certified plumbing credentials when doing any sort of residential plumbing repair. If you don't have these skills, stick to watching funny cat videos and let local plumbers fix your plumbing.
Did You Budget for Emergency Plumbing Service?
The truth is that when people attempt to make repairs they aren't qualified to make, things happen. Pipes don't line up correctly and they leak. Toilets wobble because they weren't sealed properly and fall over and break. When instances like this happen, you need help right away. That's when you call for emergency plumbing repairs and that's when all the money you thought you were saving goes down the drain.
Are You Prepared for the Consequences?
DIY repairs come with several risks and they aren't something to joke about. Gas line installation and water heater repair are not plumbing jobs that non-plumbers should be doing. These are services that come with many potential threats, such as explosion, or the heavy appliance, in the case of the water heater, falling over onto you. For your safety and the health and welfare of the people in your home, please contact a plumber for these types of plumbing repairs and installations.
Professional Plumbing Services Cost Less and Protect More
There's a rumor that plumbing service is very expensive, but the truth is that the cost isn't as bad as you might imagine. Many plumbing companies offer special discounts and coupons for new customers. In some cases, preventive maintenance services like video camera inspection is done for free with drain cleaning services. Do yourself a favor and learn as much as you can about the DIY hazards of plumbing before you commit to a job you're not qualified to do.
