How Plumbers Replace Bathroom and Kitchen Sink Faucets

If you are considering upgrading your bathroom and kitchen sink faucets, you have come to the right place. The following explanation will make your task much easier and will save your time as well.

However, before we start, make sure that you have following materials ready with you.

- New faucet assembly
- Basin wrench
- Adjustable wrenches
- Slip-joint pliers
- Scouring pad

Now follow these simple steps. (Assuming that you are replacing the old two-handled faucet with the more modern single-handled type)

Replacing Kitchen Sink Faucets 1. Before you start, go at the shut-off valves under the sink, and turn off the water.

2. Open the faucet so that it could drain any excess water.

3. The next step is to disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines from the shutoff valves. You can use a small adjustable-wrench to do this.

4. Reach up behind the faucet. You will find the coupling nuts that connect the supply tubes to the faucet. Unscrew the same using a basin wrench.

5. Behind the faucet, you will also find mounting nuts that hold the faucet in place. Remove these nuts using the same basin wrench.

6. Now that you have disconnected the mounting nuts, you can lift out the old faucet. Lifting it out, disconnect the sprayer hose from the assembly using an adjustable wrench.

7. Lift out the sprayer hose, and remove the faucet.

8. Once you have removed the faucet, clean the surface of the sink thoroughly with a scouring pad.

9. Remove the escutcheon cap and replace the same with the one that is included with your new faucet.

10. Now you are ready to make the new connection. Bring your new sprayer hose, and slip it down through the sprayer hole.

11. Feed the sprayer hose up through the center faucet hole, and connect the hose through the sprayer nipple using an adjustable wrench.

12. If the hot and cold supply tubes of the new faucet have a different length, attach flexible connectors to the fittings on the supply tubes. Hold the faucet fitting stationary with one wrench and tighten each connection with another wrench.

13. Insert and feed the supply lines and the connectors into the center hole, and then seat the faucet.

14. Now crawl up under the sink and in order to hold the faucet in place, install a washer and nut to the end bolts.

15. First, tighten the nuts by hand, and then with a basin wrench.

16. Connect the supply lines to the shutoff valves, and turn the water on.

17. Turn on the faucet and check for leaks.

Replacing Bathroom Sink Faucets 1. Go underneath the sink. Turn off the water. Loosen the collar nuts on the drainpipe.

2. Drain any excessive water, and then remove the drainpipe.

3. Loosen the nuts that hold the pop-up assembly in place under the sink using slip-joint pliers.

4. Unscrew the pop-up flange in order to free the assembly underneath the sink.

5. Remove the fittings that join the supply lines of the old faucet to the shutoff valves, using a wrench.

6. Repeat the steps 4-15 as explained above for replacing kitchen faucet.

7. Now, you have to install the pop-up assembly.

8. Push the pop-up rod down through the body of the faucet.

9. Attach the flat bar.

10. At the bottom of the new flange, use a little plumber's putty to hold the tailpiece so that the whole assembly protrudes up through the drain hole in the sink.

11. Spin the ring to position the same with the tailpiece under the sink.

12. In order to secure pop-up housing in place, tighten the nut on top of the tailpiece.

13. Hook up the pop-up lever onto the flat bar in order to secure it to the pop-up housing.

14. Drop the stopper into the drain hole.

15. Replace the drainpipe.

16. Tighten the collar nuts.

17. Turn on the faucet and check for leaks.

Hence, replacing a kitchen and a bathroom faucet is almost similar except for the work related to the pop-up assembly that is included with the bathroom sink.

Owen Walcher writes for the Best Plumber Resource which provides plumbing tips to consumer and helps people find quality plumbers in Georgia. plumbers.besthomeresource.com

Finding a Good Plumber

Plumbers in the UK take on a wide range of tasks for in both domestic and industrial settings. In domestic settings they repair, maintain and install hot and cold water supplies, toilet fittings and waste disposal fittings. A plumber may carry out a wide range of work or may specialise in a particular area such as drain clearance, bathroom installation or gas work. Any plumber who undertakes gas work in the UK must be registered with CORGI. CORGI is the Council for Registered Gas Installers.

Over the past few years, the press has run stories about a shortage of plumbers. In 2003, the British Plumbing Employer?s Council estimated that the plumbing industry would need to recruit 29,000 new entrants over the next 5 years. This led to reports of City workers leaving their jobs in the hope of earning ?70,000 a year as a plumber. More recently, however, there are accounts of workers with plumbing experience from Eastern Europe are filling vacancies on building sites and a surplus of trainees trying to find jobs.

For the householder, this means that finding someone to deal with plumbing jobs around the house is now easier but householders still need to take care to ensure that they have found a plumber who can provide them with a quality service.

Hot Hints on Finding a Plumber

? Ask for recommendations from family and friends.
? Follow up on references if the plumber has not been personally recommended to you.
? Be very clear about the work which you want doing.
? Obtain written quotes from more than at least three firms and, if the job is clearly defined, ask for a fixed quote. If the amount of work involved is genuinely uncertain then check that hourly rates and call out fees are clear and reasonable and ask for an estimate of the time which will be taken.
? Avoid paying plumbers for labour up front before a job has been completed.
? Ask your plumber about his or her experience including experience of the type of work which you need doing. Reputable tradesmen and women will be pleased to talk about their experience.
? Check that you have an address and contact details for the plumber so you get in touch if there is a problem after the job is finished.
? If the job involves gas work, check that your plumber is registered with CORGI. Registration numbers can be checked on CORGI?s website - www.corgi-gas-safety.com. Operatives working for a registered installer will also carry a card which can be checked by a householder.

? Caroline Blatchford 2006

Listening Devices Aid Plumbers & Wild Life Lovers

There are all types of listening devices available on the market today. The can be as large as a twenty inch parabolic dish, as small as a wristwatch, or even as small as a matchstick lapel microphone.

Listening devices have many more uses than just surveillance work, too. Listening devices such as the Bionic Ear have been used for magnifying animal sounds for personal safety, recording bird calls for nature photography, and were even used during Desert Storm. You can even use listening devices with your recorder to make fantastic recordings as gifts.

Some listening devices can be added onto a camera or DVR system. Other devices can accurately pick up sound from as far as three hundred yards. Listening devices can increase sound up to thirty decibels and record with concert-hall quality sound. There are other listening devices called concrete microphones or electro-acoustic receivers that can pick up minute vibrations like those given off by a bomb, and professional plumbers can even use them to locate leaky pipes in the foundation of homes. Naturally, they can also be used to identify voice leakage and their sources in a room, as well. They can detect vibrations in virtually any solid surface whether it's steel, glass, concrete or wood.

One of the best uses for listening devices is to amplify sound for the hearing impaired. These listening devices can pick up sound from as far away as one hundred yards, and they are small enough to fit into a woman's purse or a man's shirt pocket. One of the best features about these listening devices is that they minimize feedback and scratchiness and weigh as little as three ounces.

To purchase Gps Products and Surveillance Products Read other related articles on our Spy products blog

Thawing Frozen Pipes Without a Plumber

After a hard long day, isn't it nice to wind down with a nice hot bath or shower? What happens in the winter though, when you go to turn on that water, only to find out that your pipes are frozen? Below are some tips on how to thaw those pipes and some tips on how to prevent them from freezing, without having to call a plumber.

Your first concern should whether or not pipes have or will crack or burst. As water freezes it expands, which could mean trouble for your pipes. Be sure to turn all faucets that are affected on. This will help to relieve pressure and also let you know as pipes become unfrozen. This may also help with the thawing process as moving water can help break up the ice - especially the hot water.

The next thing you need to do is locate that frozen pipe or pipes. Start by searching for any exposed piping, especially next to any uninsulated foundation walls or exterior walls. Also look under sink and vanity cabinets as they can be shut off from room heat. To limit potential damage (if the pipe has cracked), cut off the water supply to that pipe, either at a local valve or the main water supply.

Now to the act of thawing those pipes. Use of tools that require an electrical outlet can be used but exercise extreme caution - water and electricity is a dangerous combination. But such tools that can be employed are: hair dryers, heat lamps, electrical heat tapes and space heaters. What is most recommended is wrapping the pipes in towels soaked with hot water. Re-submerge the towels into hot water every few minutes or pour hot water over them every few minutes. Tools such as torches or heating guns are not recommended. They are a high fire hazard and can create an excess of steam in the pipe, causing it to burst.

To help prevent your pipes from freezing you can do a few things. You can go to your local hardware store and purchase electric-heating tape or insulation for your pipes. Also make sure all areas with exposed pipe are protected from freezing whether. This may entail sealing off any crawl spaces, making sure windows are not cracked or using a space heater in some areas which do not get good protection.

Best Plumbing Resource is your guide for plumbing tips and finding a plumber within your area.

An Elderly Plumber Demonstrates Why Too Many People Gamble

Several years ago I was chatting with an elderly plumber doing some work in my bathroom. I don't recall how we got started on gambling, but to my surprise, he turned out to be an avid slots player.

I don't recall exactly how I worded the question, but I asked him essentially what he got out of going to the casino. We know plumbers make good money, but I gathered that he didn't have a lot saved up, since he was still working at his age.

He explained it to me in a way that made it clear.

"I take my girlfriend to the Alton Belle and we make a night of it. We enjoy eating a good steak at their restaurant. Then we get our rolls of quarters and start playing.

"I play the **** machine and I love it when I hit the jackpot . . . "

At this point, he was standing with his knees bent and he bounced up and down and shook his hands in fists with excitement as he spoke. His voice was full of energy.

". . . the lights flash and the bells go off and it's the greatest excitement I've ever had."

Did you catch it? Maybe not, since reading about him in this email is a different experience than hearing him in person demonstrate how hitting a jackpot gives him a substitute org*sm.

He didn't use that word, of course -- but he seemed like he was almost having one just from telling me about the experience.

Since he was well over 65 years and did not look even capable of having an org*sm and was, after all, in the middle of a plumbing job in my bathroom, I hadn't thought of him in connection with s*x at all, until then. I wouldn't have even thought he had a girlfriend, let alone take her out to eat at a casino.

How about you? Are you playing slot machines as a substitute for s*x?

My FINANCIAL advice to you is -- have real s*x instead.

I'm not a prude or a moralist. It's up to you who you want to have it with. And when. And how. And how often.

And I don't mind if you first buy them a steak in a casino restaurant.

But if you need the excitement of more s*x in your life (and all of us need and want that), have real s*x.

c 2006 by Richard Stooker Richard will teach you the only real ways to win when you gamble: Take Charge Gambling for Winners

How Do You Install Your Own Plumbing And Drainage System?

The first thing that you will need to consider when undertaking any DIY plumbing and drainage are the regulations issued by your Local Authority or State Department covering these.

If you are altering your existing drainage, or installing a new drainage system you must always inform the local Building Control Department at your local council offices. You will almost certainly need to present detailed plans of the work that you intend to undertake and it will need to be inspected as the work progresses making sure that it complies with local building regulations. If you are simply replacing damaged sections, in most circumstances they do not need to be informed. However, if in any doubt – check it out. A simply phone call should suffice.

To begin with we will take a look at drainage systems.

These can be described as Foul Water systems and Surface Water systems. Foul water is anything that comes from bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms, car washing areas etc. Waste from these sources must always go to your foul water drain system.

Surface water is basically rainwater. This can discharged into a soakaway, watercourse, surface water sewer or, particularly in older properties, into the foul water drainage system. In a combined system, the rainwater pipes are discharged into the foul water drains via gully traps which stop foul air escaping from the drains. However, modern systems are designed to keep the foul water and the surface water apart. It is extremely important to ensure that you do not connect foul water to a surface water drainage system. If you are unsure about the drainage system around your house get advice from the Building Control Department before you start any work.

Remember – If in doubt – check it out!

Planning

Before you begin, you will need to plan the route of the waste pipes. The main things to consider when planning the route of a waste or soil pipe are to keep the route as straight and short as you can. You must avoid making your pipe runs too steep. A soil pipe is normally laid to a fall of 1:40. This won’t seem very much but it is plenty. The rule of thumb for pipe laying is ‘a touch on the bubble’. This means that the bubble on the spirit level has moved to the higher end, but part of the bubble is still contained between the level lines on the spirit level. Remember - this is only a ‘rule of thumb guide. You can calculate the fall of a drain over a distance using a surveyor’s site level. If you do not have one of these available, establish a datum point and use a hosepipe filled with water to establish levels and calculate the fall from the datum this way. (If a hosepipe is filled with water, the level of the water will equal out at each end, measure to the trench floor from the end away from the datum to enable your calculations.)

Your local authority will be able to give you the recommended falls for pipework. Putting in drainage:

Preparing the trench:

When installing your drain trench, you will need to make sure that you do not impair the stability of the building. If you are laying a drain run parallel to the building, you must ensure that any foundations are not undermined.

Do not dig the trench too long before laying the pipe when installing a new drainage system. Make sure that you get the pipes laid as quickly as possible and then backfill the trench as soon as the system has been inspected and tested. The trench may need to be supported depending on the depth and soil conditions. Do not take any risks. If in doubt – add support to the trench to prevent it from collapsing. Keep the trench as narrow as possible, but allow room to work in the trench - say the width of the pipe plus 150mm (6”) on each side. The base of the trench should be clean and even and free from protruding stones or bricks etc. You may need to import a suitable material for the base of the trench if the existing material is unsuitable. Your local inspector will advise you.

Never use bricks and/or other hard materials to support the pipe in the trench. This will damage the pipe and must never be used as temporary or permanent support. The bedding should be properly compacted with hollows made to accommodate the joints in the pipes. You will need to provide a continuous and uniform support for the complete length of the pipe. Once the laid pipes have been inspected, granular material should be evenly backfilled and compacted to a depth of at least 100mm above the pipe. 10 mm shingle has often been used as a backfill material as, not only is it a uniform medium but is also a visual warning to anyone excavating in the area of the drains that there are drainage pipes immediately below. Above the granular backfill material, the original dug material can be used to completely backfill the trench. This should be compacted in 300mm layers. Be sure not use heavy compactors until there is at least 300mm of cover. Light vibratory tampers could be used sensibly to help with the compaction.

You will need to protect any part of the drain system that is less than 600mm below a garden. This is because of potential damage from garden activities and gardening tools. A 50mm layer of lean concrete laid 100mm above the pipe will be adequate to do this. However you could use preformed concrete slabs as an alternative.

It is important that all parts of your drainage system are designed so that all parts of the pipework are accessible to a set of drain rods. Therefore, a run of drains should be as straight as possible between two points. As a general rule, any change in direction of the pipework should be provided with an inspection chamber to allow rodding access. This will also apply to changes in gradient, all drain junctions that are inaccessible to a set of drain rods, changes in pipe diameter and at the head of each run of drain. Where a junction between two drains does not have a manhole, access should be sited on the branch drain within 12 metres of the junction.

DIY plumbing and drainage is certainly within the bounds of most DIY enthusiasts. However, you must remember that it is important to follow local building control regulations and, as always, it is ‘hard graft’!

Remember if in doubt – check it out!

Whilst the author endeavors to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this article, you are reminded that this is only a guide and you should always check with local professional before undertaking any work based herein.

After many years working in the construction industry, Phil now teaches in the UK. He has written many articles for web sites like Householders Guide and http://ukhomeonline.co.uk. His wide knowledge of the Construction Industry and Housing Markets makes him a popular author on how to install drainage.

Is An Arizona Water Softener the Answer to Your Plumbing Woes?

If you live in the southwestern American desert, chances are you are no stranger to hard water and its irritating side effects. In fact, the Southwest has some of the worst hard water in the country. This nettlesome problem has plagued homeowners for years and can cause numerous and sometimes costly results including hard water stains, corroded valves and faucets, and lackluster hair and skin. Even worse, hard water causes limescale, a hard mineral deposit that is chalky and off-white in color.

Scale is typically found in kettles, hot-water boilers, hot-water central heating systems, and other elements that employ the use of water. Limescale can also clog pipes and damage plumbing systems, as we found out the hard way.

My husband and I discovered the extent of our hard water problem a little too late. The realtor apparently did not know (or forgot to mention) the “minor” problem of the clogged plumbing pipes which had been the result of limescale build up. As the pipes become more and more clogged, the water flow would become restricted, thus dramatically reducing water pressure throughout the house. Not only was this a headache to deal with (showering felt like standing outside in a light rain), it also caused serious and expensive damage to our plumbing and heating equipment. Scale had built up on the central heating unit, insulating the heater, which caused it to use far more energy than it should have, resulting in a premature burnout. Replacing the system as well as having a plumber fix all our pipes was a very costly endeavor (not to mention our high heating costs prior to the burnout) that probably could have been avoided.

After having dealt with this ordeal, we found the best solution was to have an Arizona water softener installed to avoid future problems with hard water. The cost to have one installed was a mere fraction of the costs the hard water incurred in the first place. Not only will a water softener reduce limescale and heating costs, your water-using appliances will last longer, your clothes and dishes will come out cleaner and brighter, and the domestic tap water even tastes better.

Must-Have Plumbing Tools For The Homeowner

Whether it is a leaking faucet you want to get fixed or a clogged drain, finding a good plumber at odd hours in an emergency situation is not always easy. But if you stock the most basic do-it-yourself plumbing tools at home, not only can you temporarily stave off the crisis till the plumber arrives, you may even learn to fix small problems on your own.

The basic homeowners plumbing tools kit must have the following essential tools:

Plumber's Pliers: Also called channel-lock pliers, plumber's pliers are a must-have for any kind of plumbing job. Compared to the conventional pliers, their serrated jaws open much wider to get around pipes of all sizes.

Crescent Wrench: Plumber's pliers when used on polished chrome fixtures tend to mar the finish. Conventional adjustable pliers, on the other hand, tend to slip off polished surfaces. A crescent wrench is less likely to mar the finish or slip off.

Pipe Wrench: This is a long-handled wrench meant for working on threaded connections. It is commonly used on thicker pipes requiring wider-opening jaws. When using the pipe wrench, make sure that the rear sides of the wrench's jaws come into contact with the pipe. This will ensure that loosening or tightening of the pipe does not damage the pipe or alter its shape.

Basin Wrench: Basin wrench is a long-handled wrench with adjustable spring-loaded jaws. It allows you to reach spots that are not easily accessible for tightening or loosening a connection, for example, underneath or behind the sink.

Pipe Dope/Teflon Tape: Threaded joints, i.e., joints that are screwed together rather than being soldered, need to be smeared with a material called joint compound or pipe dope before screwing them in order to guard against any leakage. The same purpose can also be achieved by wrapping a Teflon tape around the threads before screwing them.

Washers: It is advisable to stock an assortment of washers of different sizes at home because you never know when a faucet may need a new washer all of a sudden. That way you will always have the right-sized washer on hand when you need it.

These are the most essential do-it-yourself plumbing tools. However, if you intend to do a little more than the basic stuff yourself, sooner or later you are likely to require cutting and soldering of pipes. Then you would need to get additional tools like pipe cutter for cutting pipes, and soldering materials to join the pipes - such as pipe-cleaning tool or emery cloth, soldering flux, solder, torch, striker, and protective eyewear - all of which can be bought online at great prices.

For great deals on Tools check out the author's website at http://toolsseen.com

Tackling A DIY Plumbing Repair

When it comes to a plumbing repair, you have two ways to go – calling in a professional plumber to take on the job or tackling it yourself with a DIY plumbing repair. Taking on a plumbing repair yourself can save you quite a bit of money but you have to have the time and tools to complete the repair successfully.

When venturing into the world of do-it-yourself plumbing repairs it’s best to take it slowly. Begin with smaller projects such as simple installs and relatively easy repairs such as fixing a leak, replacing a valve, or insulating a pipe.

However, completing a plumbing repair successfully requires some fundamental knowledge and a comprehensive tool kit that will ensure your preparedness in any situation. Some basic tools to include in your plumbing repair kit are the basic varieties of wrenches, caulk, tape, nuts and bolts, and other basic household tools that you would use for any project.

Additionally, be sure to include a flashlight – with extra batteries – as part of your plumbing repair tool kit. Attending to a plumbing repair project often requires you to work in a dimly lit environment. A flashlight will ensure that you have all the necessary light in your workspace.

In addition to your plumbing repair tool kit, you should also arm yourself with as much information as possible. Go online to learn step-by-step instructions for any do-it-yourself plumbing repair project. You can also visit your local home improvement store for the latest resources on plumbing repairs.

No matter what, you should always be sure to stay within your comfort zone. If you feel like a plumbing repair project is out of your league, do not hesitate to call in a professional plumber. Tackling a project that you are not prepared to handle will only cost you time and money in the long run.

But if you are successful in your plumbing repair you will have the added satisfaction of a job well done as well as cash saved in your pocket.

For easy to understand, in depth information about plumbing visit our ezGuide 2 Plumbing

What is Plumbing Consulting?

In just about every important thing we do in our lives, we look to find authorities that understand the intricacies of what we want to accomplish. If we want to build a building, we turn to an architect. For advice on how to grow a business we seek out marketing experts. It only makes sense that if we have a major project that involves plumbing, we would go for plumbing consulting.

Not often understood as the profession within a profession that it is, plumbing consulting is a task that is only undertaken by the most knowledgeable of persons in the plumbing field. There is not really a school to go to or a degree that can be obtained in the certification of plumbing consulting. Rather, proficiency in plumbing consulting is a result of years of training, practical experience, and good old-fashioned common sense.

In addition to requiring years of experience, consulting can be a highly lucrative choice of career. Because the cumulative knowledge of a plumbing consultant goes far beyond that of a typical plumber, a person who chooses to go into the field can be a great asset to any building project. Whether the project is the reworking of a plumbing network for an existing structure or creating a brand new one for a new one, competent consulting can result in huge net savings. Local municipalities may find plumbing consulting to be helpful as well. A professional consultant can save time and money when it comes to laying out new water systems or adding to an existing one.

Of course, it is fairly easy for anyone to claim to be proficient in plumbing consulting. Before hiring someone for your building project, check their credentials with your local and state plumbing associations. Make sure to get references and follow up on them. Verify their certification. Remember, a true professional will not only be happy to provide you with the information to do this, but will insist that you check them out before they contract with you.

Hazman is the owner of Plumbing Consulting, Do visit us to learn more about Plumbing, Plumbing Consulting, Plumbing Design, Plumbing Installation and Plumbing Supplies

Plumbing Schools Train for Lifelong Careers

Plumbers are not only those people who fit pipes and unclog drains in private homes, plumbers also are pipelayers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. Plumbing Schools train to install, maintain, and repair various types of pipe systems for various needs.

Plumbing Schools train in laying pipe systems that dispose of waste products; provide gas to stoves, heaters, and furnaces; and pipelines for cooling systems. Plumbing Schools also train in metal fabrication for applications in power plants, for pipes that convey steam that power turbines to produce electricity or heat. Plumbers apply their trade in manufacturing plants, laying pipes to move materials along production lines. Pharmaceutical and computer-chip manufacturing industries also provide occupations for plumbers.

Plumbing Schools prepare graduates with the theory and knowledge of plumbing for entry-level position in the plumbing industries. Plumbing Schools train for lifelong careers with practical skills, education, and real-world experience.

Pipefitting and Plumbing School programs prepare students with courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, safety, and industrial and plumbing codes. Students also learn to interpret blueprints, and get hands-on experience using components of various types of pipes and fittings. The tools used in the trade are also studied and applied in laboratory settings.

Graduates often enter into apprenticeship programs for approximately four years, though Plumbing Schools can provide skills that allow for obtaining a license, and entrance into employment in some areas of the plumbing field.

Plumbers may work in different areas of the field, such as gas installation, refrigeration, water supply, or pipe welding. Most programs focus on residential or commercial buildings, but some Plumbing Schools prepare students with competencies in sheet metal fabrication and soldering, as well as installation of hot water and heating systems.

Plumbers generally work in commercial and residential settings, installing and maintaining water and waste systems. Pipelayers with knowledge and expertise in fabrication build pipelines that transport gas, oil, and chemicals to supply stations. Pipefitters and steamfitters work in industrial and power plants environments.

Plumbing fields may sound like an unpleasant occupation, but they can be very lucrative. Pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters can be very well paid. Entry-level positions can net $30,000. Experience, education, and expertise in some fields of plumbing will earn several times that amount.

If you are interested in learning more about Plumbing Schools and other types of schools, please search our site for more information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Michael Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc. in association with SchoolsGalore.com. Find Schools, Colleges, Universities, Vocational Schools and Online Schools at SchoolsGalore.com; meeting your needs as your educational resource to locate schools.

DIY Bathroom Plumbing

Have been thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Wondering if it's a project you can handle yourself? Why not start with DIY bathroom plumbing and before you know it you'll be redoing the entire bathroom all by yourself.

You've got to start with a plan. What is it you want to do with your bathroom? DO you want to complete strip it out? Change out the fixtures? Or do you want to give it just a partial facelift? Once you decide you need to move fore ward to budget. For this article lets assume you are going to redo the entire bathroom from top to bottom.

A budget of $4000 wouldn't be unrealistic. Here's a rough list of what you might need to buy. Realize that the investment of $4000 is going to increase the value of your home substantially more.

Shower kit and door $800
Tub $450
Shower faucet $200
Vanity & Top $800
Faucet for Vanity $100
Toilet $200
Water Resistant Drywall $50
Floor Tile $200
Grout $20
Pre-hung door $80
Light Fixture $100
Mirror $100
Paint and Wallpaper $100
Rough Plumbing $800

Total $4000

If you are going to need some serious movement of existing sewer and water lines then you'll need to hire a plumber and that will be an additional cost however if all the new pieces are going in the same place as the old ones lived you should be able to avert this cost. It's very room dependent.

When it comes to starting your project safety needs to come first. That means you need to take all the precautions - wearing gloves, goggles for your eyes, a mask, or any other safety equipment that is necessary. Now lets get started:

1. Spread out the builder's paper to help trap all the demolition material. It's not 100% but it sure does help keep things in one place.

2. If you are tearing out walls now is the time to get busy. Nothing neat here just fly at it.

3. Next you will need to pull the fixtures - tub, sink, and toilet. Dismantle it all!

4. Once you have everything stripped out of the room it's time to do your cleanup.

5. The sub floor will be the first to go in and then any replacement dry wall.

6. Once that's been taken care of it is time to start the fixture installations. The tub and shower installation can be a big one so you may need some additional help.

7. After all the fixtures are in place you'll have the finishing touches such as lighting, flooring, and paint and wall paper.

How much plumbing changes you will need to make will depend on what is occurring in your bathroom. If fixtures are in the same place as the old ones your biggest plumbing job will be hooking up the new taps and the toilet. But if you moved things around you may have to redo some basic plumbing. You can attempt this yourself if you like or hire an experienced plumber. There are some great books and online resources that can help you complete this.

DIY bathroom plumbing doesn't have to be that difficult as long as you follow the directions. And with so many terrific resources around finding step by step help shouldn't be difficult at all. And won't you feel great when that bathroom is finished and you can take full credit for the transformation?

Carl has been a professional plumber in a company he owns for more than 10 years not only is he experience in unclogging just about anything but also an expert in installing plumbing fixtures and installing new water lines. Carl will give you some helpful tips on plumbing installation when you visit http://www.alliedesolutions.com

DIY Bathroom Plumbing

Have been thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Wondering if it's a project you can handle yourself? Why not start with DIY bathroom plumbing and before you know it you'll be redoing the entire bathroom all by yourself.

You've got to start with a plan. What is it you want to do with your bathroom? DO you want to complete strip it out? Change out the fixtures? Or do you want to give it just a partial facelift? Once you decide you need to move fore ward to budget. For this article lets assume you are going to redo the entire bathroom from top to bottom.

A budget of $4000 wouldn't be unrealistic. Here's a rough list of what you might need to buy. Realize that the investment of $4000 is going to increase the value of your home substantially more.

Shower kit and door $800
Tub $450
Shower faucet $200
Vanity & Top $800
Faucet for Vanity $100
Toilet $200
Water Resistant Drywall $50
Floor Tile $200
Grout $20
Pre-hung door $80
Light Fixture $100
Mirror $100
Paint and Wallpaper $100
Rough Plumbing $800

Total $4000

If you are going to need some serious movement of existing sewer and water lines then you'll need to hire a plumber and that will be an additional cost however if all the new pieces are going in the same place as the old ones lived you should be able to avert this cost. It's very room dependent.

When it comes to starting your project safety needs to come first. That means you need to take all the precautions - wearing gloves, goggles for your eyes, a mask, or any other safety equipment that is necessary. Now lets get started:

1. Spread out the builder's paper to help trap all the demolition material. It's not 100% but it sure does help keep things in one place.

2. If you are tearing out walls now is the time to get busy. Nothing neat here just fly at it.

3. Next you will need to pull the fixtures - tub, sink, and toilet. Dismantle it all!

4. Once you have everything stripped out of the room it's time to do your cleanup.

5. The sub floor will be the first to go in and then any replacement dry wall.

6. Once that's been taken care of it is time to start the fixture installations. The tub and shower installation can be a big one so you may need some additional help.

7. After all the fixtures are in place you'll have the finishing touches such as lighting, flooring, and paint and wall paper.

How much plumbing changes you will need to make will depend on what is occurring in your bathroom. If fixtures are in the same place as the old ones your biggest plumbing job will be hooking up the new taps and the toilet. But if you moved things around you may have to redo some basic plumbing. You can attempt this yourself if you like or hire an experienced plumber. There are some great books and online resources that can help you complete this.

DIY bathroom plumbing doesn't have to be that difficult as long as you follow the directions. And with so many terrific resources around finding step by step help shouldn't be difficult at all. And won't you feel great when that bathroom is finished and you can take full credit for the transformation?

Carl has been a professional plumber in a company he owns for more than 10 years not only is he experience in unclogging just about anything but also an expert in installing plumbing fixtures and installing new water lines. Carl will give you some helpful tips on plumbing installation when you visit http://www.alliedesolutions.com

DIY Heating and Plumbing: The Best Ways to Learn

If you are interested in doing DIY heating and plumbing, you first have to learn how to do the heating and plumbing yourself. There are many ways that you can teach yourself how to do this so that you will not have to hire contractors to do it for you, or you can go to school and learn how to do this the right way as well. Maybe a community college in your are will teach you how to do heating and plumbing for your home, and then you could also do it for other people as well if this were a career that you were interested in pursuing. However, not everyone has the time or the money to go to school to learn how to keep up their own home. There are other ways to learn to do these things yourself, and they are listed below.

Learning DIY heating and plumbing can be as easy as searching on the internet to find instructions to do what you need to do. You will find that there are several website that offer DIY information and instructions, and you will have to make sure that you are getting accurate information to be sure that you are doing the job correct. The best way to be sure of this is to go to a website that you know and trust for this information, and you will not go wrong. Be sure to print out the instructions, as well as any pictures that might be crucial to your getting the job done as well.

You can also go to the library to learn DIY heating and plumbing. You will find that there are many books available on this subject, and you will be able to pick and choose the ones that apply to your job that you need to get done. Be sure that you check them out or make photocopies of the instructions that you will need so that you can refer back to them while you are in the middle of the job.

You can ask someone that does this for a living the best to get a DIY heating and plumbing job done yourself. Make sure that you ask someone that is good at what they do, so that you get accurate advice and to ensure that you get the job done yourself the right way in the first place. Or otherwise, you might be calling back the professional to get the job done for you.

There are several ways that you can learn the techniques to DIY heating and plumbing. You will find that everything that you learn will be valuable to you at one time or another, and you will be so glad that you took the time to do this job yourself.

Carl has been a professional plumber in a company he owns for more than 10 years not only is he experience in unclogging just about anything but also an expert in installing plumbing fixtures and installing new water lines. Carl will give you some helpful tips on plumbing installation when you visit http://www.alliedesolutions.com

Antique Plumbing Fixtures: For The Inside of Your Home

When you think of antique plumbing fixtures, you are probably thinking about pipes, and fittings that go under your home that are antique. However, there are so much more to fixtures than just what will go under your home, and lay in the ground. Sinks, bath tubs, faucets, and toilets can all be referred to as fixtures as well. There are so many different kinds as well as brands, you should be glad that you know of a great brand to choose from for your fixtures. You will find many styles to choose from, that will suit all different decor that you might have in your home. Choosing your fixtures will be a lot of fun, and you will have lots to choose from, but where are the best places that you should look to purchase these?

The first place that you can look for antique plumbing fixtures would be your local home improvement store. You will find that they sell fixtures in all shapes and sizes, no matter what it is that you might be looking for. You will get a great variety to choose from, and the color choices as well as finishes will blow you away. You should make sure that you know what you are looking for as far as design and colors when you go shopping sop that you will not feel over whelmed, and have to much to choose from.

Another great place to look for antique plumbing fixtures will be your local plumbing supply store. You will see that they will have the fixtures as well as the pipes and the fittings that you might need. You will find that there are many for you to choose from, and the variety here will be nice as well to choose from. You might even find that the prices are a little cheaper because a plumbing supply store does specialize in everything that you need for plumbing. This will mean that you might even come out with a great deal, and that would be nice to be able to cut some corners on your fixtures as well as the pipes and the fittings.

Searching online will bring you to many antique plumbing fixtures. However, when you buy something such as fixtures online, you will need to be sure to that sizes that you need. This will ensure that you get the right sizes that will fit your water works, and when you get the fixtures or parts in the mail from buying online, you will be able to use them.

As you can see, there are many places that you can find antique plumbing fixtures. Whatever kind you might be looking for, you are going to see that there are plenty to choose from and you should have no problems at all finding what it is that you will need.

Carl has been a professional plumber in a company he owns for more than 10 years not only is he experience in unclogging just about anything but also an expert in installing plumbing fixtures and installing new water lines. Carl will give you some helpful tips on plumbing installation when you visit http://www.alliedesolutions.com

Crane Plumbing

When it comes to plumbing manufacturers Crane Plumbing is one of the biggest in North America and they've got huge line of products that are manufactured.

There are more than 20 facilities throughout North America that are responsible for producing all the product lines and there are more than 3000 employees all with specialized training in the plumbing industry. So whether you are new to plumbing or an old pro they'll be able to assist you.

Crane has been producing quality fixtures for more than 130 years. That's an awfully long time! You'll find their products in the home, in hospitals, apartments, schools, hotels, and commercial places. And even if you don't see the Crane name chances are you've seen a Crane product because they market under a variety of brand names which include.
1. Crane Plumbing - Full line of fixtures and accessories
2. Universal Rundle - Full line of fixtures and accessories
3. Showerite - Full line of shower doors
4. Fiat Products - Specialty plumbing products
5. Sanymetal - Bathing compartments

Wait, there's more. They have plenty of product categories to choose from too.
1. Vitreous China - toilets, lavatories, urinals, flushometer, marine fixtures, penal fixtures, hospital fixtures, counter top sinks, pedestal sinks.
2. Enamel Steel - lavatories, bath tubs, kitchen sinks.
3. Plastic Wall Surrounds - Tubs and showers.
4. Acrylic & Gel Coated Fiberglass - whirlpools, soaker tubs, steamsuites, showers, tubs, physically challenged bathing units.
5. Cultured Marble - lavatories and vanity tops.
6. Molded Stone - service basins, laundry tubs, shower floors.
7. Commander - commercial showers, change stalls.
8. Terrazzo - commercial shower floors.

If you don't believe how common Crane is have a look at the stamp on your toilet, or checkout the lavatory in your parent's home. You'll find the Crane stamp on more than 50% of the fixtures you check.

The warranty is excellent. Another reason to buy Crane. Of course it varies depending on the product but they range from anywhere from 1 year to 10 years depending on the item and there may be a few that are even longer. And warranty claims are handled professionally and with as minimal of hassle as possible.

Crane is well known not only for the quality products but also for the good prices and terrific selection. It's a great feeling to know you can hit one manufacturer and get everything you need without having to run all over the country.

It's even better when you can grab your comfy desk chair, turn on your computer, and let your fingers go shopping. In no time you can find exactly what you want and there is no looking for parking, and no running around town burning up gas and time.

The most important thing before you start shopping is to know what it is you really need. It's too easy to get caught up buying pieces that aren't necessary. Make your list and then stick to it. If you are looking at bigger items it also pays to set a budget and then to price compare online.

Crane Plumbing is a name you can trust in your home renovations.

Carl has been a professional plumber in a company he owns for more than 10 years not only is he experience in unclogging just about anything but also an expert in installing plumbing fixtures and installing new water lines. Carl will give you some helpful tips on plumbing installation when you visit http://www.alliedesolutions.com.

Discount Plumbing Supplies: Saving Money on Supplies

When you need a lot of plumbing supplies, you need discount plumbing supplies. This way you can get all of the supplies that you need for the job you have to do, but get them all at a discount. No one like to pay full price for anything, and getting something at a discount just makes it so much better. You will find that they are not hard to find, and you can find the supplies at a discount most anywhere if you know where to look.

The first place that you should look for discount plumbing supplies is your local discount plumbing supply store. You will see that they can offer part, pipes, and fittings at a lower price than your plumber might be selling them to you for. Going into a discount store like this is sure to pay off in the end if you are looking to buy a lot at one time. You will need to know what size fittings that you will need, as well as the right size of pipe for the most perfect fit that you can have. Some plumbing parts will have a standard size, and if you are not sure what size it is that you need for your plumbing, you can just buy the standard, and be sure that you will be able to use them in some project down the road that has to do with plumbing.

Many times plumbers will offer discount plumbing supplies if you have a large plumbing job for them to do. This is because they probably got the parts at a discount in the first place, and you can then get a discount from the plumber as well. If you have a plumber that will only charge you cost for the parts and supplies, that is a great deal. You know some plumbers make a lot of money off the supplies that they will use to get the job done. But to have plumber only charge their customers cost for the supplies is great. You will not find many plumbers that will do this, but if you have a plumber that is your friend, you just might get lucky in the money saving department.

If you can use used parts, you might be able to find many discount plumbing supplies that you will be able to use. While not every part that you might come across used, will be able to be reused, you might be able to save some money and cut some corners by using some used parts. This is a great help to anyone that is trying to get a plumbing job on a budget themselves, and you will be glad that you checked out the used parts as well when you were looking for a discount.

As you can see, there are many ways to get discount plumbing supplies that you need. Just because the piece is not brand new does not mean that you can not use it. Always be sure that your plumbing parts have a tight fit for the best results, and you will not go wrong.

Carl has been a professional plumber in a company he owns for more than 10 years not only is he experience in unclogging just about anything but also an expert in installing plumbing fixtures and installing new water lines. Carl will give you some helpful tips on plumbing installation when you visit http://www.alliedesolutions.com

Public Relation for Plumbing Company

Some industry sub-sectors have a difficult time in setting up public relations plans and strategies. Lets look at a plumbing company for instance, it is a company type that everyone thinks nothing of until they need a good plumber and then they are at the top of our list for solving a major if not catastrophic potential problem.

But what kinds of things can a plumbing company do to promote itself and increase its community standing and goodwill? Well why not join in a Neighborhood Mobile Watch Patrol in the town or city. Help take a bite out of crime? Great, but what does this have to do with plumbing you ask? Well consider if you will the following factors;

PLUMBING COMPANIES: Plumbers are highly paid individuals and tend to know all the income property owners of the town. These property owners are the movers and shakers who are also involved in all the philanthropic and political groups in the towns. Plumbers handle many emergencies and are some of the most randomly scheduled professionals. No one can predict when or where they will show up next, including themselves. A criminal planning a break in hates these types of wild cards. Like locksmiths called out to help with lock out problems, they can be anywhere at any time for anybody. A plumbing company with multiple trucks can be a great asset. A small company with one truck can also have just as many contacts around town. Both large and small plumbing companies will be more than happy to help your program.

You see all this makes a plumbing company a valuable asset to the safety of the community and thus helps rank them at the top of our list. Such goodwill and public relations are indeed difficult to come by these days. So, consider all this in 2006.

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/. Lance is a guest writer for Our Spokane Magazine in Spokane, Washington