{"id":1291,"date":"2017-08-03T14:18:15","date_gmt":"2017-08-03T13:18:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page&p=1291"},"modified":"2020-11-16T09:10:50","modified_gmt":"2020-11-16T09:10:50","slug":"plumbing","status":"publish","type":"project_page","link":"https:\/\/www.local-quotes.co.uk\/advice\/guide\/plumbing\/plumbing\/","title":{"rendered":"Plumbing"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":1293,"parent":0,"template":"","meta":[],"tags":[],"tax_works":[31],"class_list":["post-1291","project_page","type-project_page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tax_works-plumbing"],"acf":{"testimonials":false,"inspirations":false,"faq":[1233,1235,1236,1234],"quote_link":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/quotes.html?keyword=bathroom-and-kitchen-plumbing&sqn=115897&spn=810","project_page_element_title":"Items Plumbers can Help you with","project_page_elements":[{"element_label":"Toilet","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1300,"post_author":"5","post_date":"2017-08-03 15:17:45","post_date_gmt":"2017-08-03 14:17:45","post_content":"For most of the time, your toilet will never suffer any faults. But it\u2019s worth knowing the basics about repairing your toilet in case something does happen.\r\n\r\nThe chances are you have a few toilets scattered around your home, in various bathrooms and ensuites, so it pays to be in the know.\r\n\r\nLet\u2019s take a look at three of the most common faults you can expect with your toilet, and tips on how to fix these.\r\n

How to replace the float<\/h3>\r\nInside the cistern of your toilet, you\u2019ll find a float. If water somehow gets itself inside this then it\u2019ll need replacing, otherwise the toilet won\u2019t function correctly. It\u2019s pretty easy to replace this float though and first you\u2019ll simply need to unscrew it from the arm. The replacement can then be screwed into its place. For your own information, it\u2019s worth knowing that the water level shouldn\u2019t be more than 12mm below the overflow pipe.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_336\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"300\"]\"toilet Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n

How to fix a non-flushing toilet<\/h3>\r\nIf your toilet bowl isn\u2019t emptying properly then one of the common issues is a blockage. However, this isn\u2019t always the reason so it\u2019s worth knowing other ways you can fix it.\r\n\r\nEnsure the main water supply is switched on and has the correct volume and water pressure. You may find a tap or knob located near the toilet which allows more or less water to flow through the pipes.\r\n\r\nAlso bear in mind that not all toilets are designed to completely empty the pan. If some water stays behind it might not necessarily be a problem, and it could simply be for economical purposes.\r\n

How to clear a blockage<\/h3>\r\nAs we have already mentioned, one of the reasons for a toilet fault could be from a blockage somewhere in the pipe network. Often an obstruction is found in the S bend where the base of the toilet connects to the stench or waste pipe. Using a plunger is one way to clear the blockage, but is only really successful with small obstructions.\r\n\r\nIf you suspect a larger blockage, then a high-pressure burst of air could be the solution. There are specialist tools that can do this, and you can also call out a plumber to help remove the blockage too.\r\n\r\n

How much will a plumber charge?<\/h4>\r\nIt depends on the problem with your toilet, but expect around \u00a360-\u00a3100 to fix most problems with your loo.\r\n\r\nNeed a plumber now? Click 'Start my Project'<\/a> to enter your details and get a plumber ASAP.\r\n","post_title":"Top Tips for Fixing your Toilet","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"top-tips-fixing-toilet","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2017-08-03 15:17:45","post_modified_gmt":"2017-08-03 14:17:45","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1300","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Sink","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1302,"post_author":"5","post_date":"2017-08-03 16:55:32","post_date_gmt":"2017-08-03 15:55:32","post_content":"It's a dreaded feeling when you realise that your sink or bath isn't draining as quickly as normal. You know that you're going to have to deal with it, but it feels better to put it off.\r\n\r\nBut you are going to have to tackle it eventually. You might opt for a drain unblocking gel, but the reality is that this will only work in the very short term.\r\n\r\nIf you leave your blocked sink or bath too long, it's only going to get worse. But luckily, it doesn't usually take a plumber to sort this problem out. \r\n\r\nFollow our tips on how to unblock a sink and you will have yours running back to normal in no time.\r\n\r\n

1. Use the right equipment<\/h4>\r\nSink unblocking chemicals won't get rid of the entire blockage, no matter how many times you run different products down your drain. You need to go old school.\r\n\r\nYou're going to need a plunger. They're simple to use as long as you know how. \r\n\r\n

2. Make sure your plunger is big enough<\/h4>\r\nNow is not the time to scrimp on quality. Make sure your plunger is big enough and flexible enough to withstand the exertion. You'll find a good quality plunger in any DIY store.\r\n\r\n

3. Run some water<\/h4>\r\nIf you're going to unblock a sink, you'll need to run some water into the sink to let it block. Then put the plunger over the plughole, making sure that there's some water still left in the sink. \r\n\r\n

4. Cover the overflow<\/h4>\r\nDon't forget this step. Block the overflow with a damp cloth to trap air. This will make the plunging action work.\r\n\r\n

5. Plunge<\/h4>\r\nNow plunge for a few minutes until the water drains away like normal. Eventually you should release the blockage and your drain will run like it should.\r\n\r\n

What happens if plunging doesn't work?<\/h3>\r\nAll is not lost yet. If plunging doesn't unblock your sink, there is something else you can try.\r\n\r\n

Unscrew the trap<\/h4>\r\nThis might get a bit grim, but it could work. Put a bowl or bucket under the trap of the sink, which is bowed part, and unscrew the pipe.\r\n\r\nAs the trap is bowed, you can end up with all sorts of things blocked in there. Think hair, bits of food and built up soap scum. It's probably going to be a bit yucky, but you'll probably just have to pull out a lump of all these things stuck together. \r\n\r\nOnce you've removed the blockage, simply screw the pipe back together and you should be good to go.\r\n\r\n

What happens if these don't work?<\/h3>\r\n\"unblockIf these methods don't help you unblock a sink, it might be time to call in the professionals. \r\n\r\nA plumber will be able to locate a blockage if it's further down your pipework. It's an easy job for them but it might take a little while longer to fix than a standard blockage. \r\n\r\nExpect to pay between \u00a335 and \u00a365<\/strong> for a plumber to unblock your sink.\r\n\r\nReady to give these tips a go with your sink or bath? Let us know how it goes by tweeting us @Quotatis<\/a>.\r\n\r\n","post_title":"How to Unblock a Sink Like a Pro","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"unblock-sink-like-pro","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2017-08-04 12:43:25","post_modified_gmt":"2017-08-04 11:43:25","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1302","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Taps and pipes","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1312,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-08-04 14:19:58","post_date_gmt":"2017-08-04 13:19:58","post_content":"If you have leaking taps or pipes in your home, you need to know about it. Water leaks can cause damp, structural damage and cost you hundreds of pounds in water bills. So it\u2019s important to fix them as soon as you can.\r\n\r\nHowever, a lot of the time it can be hard to tell if you have leaking taps or pipes in your home. This is because it might be a very small leak or it\u2019s hidden behind a fitting or wall. To help you detect any plumbing problems, we\u2019ve come up with 6 signs of leaking taps or pipes in your home.\r\n\r\n

1. Damaged wallpaper or paint<\/h4>\r\nHas your wallpaper or paint started to peel or become blotchy or bubbly? If you do, this could indicate that you have damp walls possibly caused by a water leak. To prevent this damage from escalating, call in a plumber as soon as you can.\r\n\r\n

2. Mildew and mould growth<\/h4>\r\nMildew and mould grow best in damp conditions. Even just a very small amount of moisture is enough to encourage it to develop. So if you notice any new mildew or mould in your home, there must be water coming from somewhere \u2013 and this could be leaking taps or pipes.\r\n\r\n

3. High water bills<\/h4>\r\nA water bill that\u2019s just slightly higher than normal isn\u2019t likely to be a sign of a water leak; you\u2019ve probably just used a bit more than normal. But if your water bill has got significantly higher for no apparent reason, it could be a sign of a leaking taps or pipes. To avoid escalating bills and damage to your home, speak to a plumber and ask them to take a look.\r\n\r\n\"\"

4. Cracked ceilings or walls<\/h4>\r\nWater can be very heavy in large amounts. If you have cracked ceilings or walls, this could be a sign of leaking water mounting up and damaging your home. Structural damage is extremely hazardous and needs to be fixed as soon as possible.\r\n\r\n

5. Warped flooring<\/h4>\r\nFlooring can warp if it\u2019s exposed to and absorbs too much moisture. So warped flooring could indicate that you have leaking taps or pipes. You should investigate as soon as you can to stop the problem getting worse.\r\n\r\n

6. The sound of running water<\/h4>\r\nSometimes you can\u2019t see a water leak but you can hear it. The sound of water dripping or running is a common sign of a water leak. Never ignore the sound of dripping water if you don\u2019t know where it\u2019s coming from \u2013 it might be damaging your home and costing you money.\r\n\r\nSo there are plenty of signs of leaking taps or pipes in your home. If you think you have a leak and need professional help, click \u2018Start my project\u2019<\/a> and complete our online form. We\u2019ll find you up to 4 plumbers in your area.","post_title":"6 Signs of Leaking Taps or Pipes in Your Home","post_excerpt":"It\u2019s important to fix leaking taps or pipes as soon as possible to prevent them from causing damage and costing you money.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-signs-leaking-taps-or-pipes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2017-08-04 14:19:58","post_modified_gmt":"2017-08-04 13:19:58","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1312","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}}],"standard_and_laws":[{"standard_and_laws_link":{"ID":1392,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-08-10 17:14:41","post_date_gmt":"2017-08-10 16:14:41","post_content":"There are a few plumbing regulations that you need to know about if you\u2019re doing any home improvement work. These are in place to prevent waste and make sure that your plumbing is safe.\r\n\r\nKeep reading to learn all you need to know about plumbing regulations.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Building regulations<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBuilding regulations exist to ensure structures are safe and accessible. The government writes them and local authorities enforce them. They cover plumbing work, so it\u2019s important to be aware of them if you want to do any pipe work.\r\n\r\nYou\u2019ll need to make sure you adhere to building regulations if you\u2019re altering existing or installing new plumbing. This could be in a bathroom, kitchen or as part of a new or altered heating system. Building regulations relate to a range of things, including:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n