5 Signs a Water Pipe Burst Inside Your Walls or Ceiling

Posted on October 4, 2016 by chad siemer

Worried that you might have a broken pipe inside your walls or ceiling? Knowing what to look for can help prevent costly water damage throughout your home, saving you thousands of dollars on extensive repair and remediation work.

Here are 5 signs you might have a burst water pipe inside the walls or ceiling of your home:

Blistering paint or wallpaper.If you’ve noticed unusual blisters, bubbles, or other odd damage developing on the wall coverings in your home, you could have a plumbing leak. When moisture gets between your walls and the layer of paint, the bond that keeps the paint on the walls is compromised and the paint begins detaching from the walls – same goes for wallpaper.
Unpleasant odors.Water leaks can really stink up your home, especially if they’ve been left for an extended period of time. The hidden water tends to get into your walls, where it becomes stagnant and smelly.
Ceiling stains.Patches of discoloration or staining on your ceiling can also indicate that there’s a problem with your water pipes, as is a sagging ceiling.
Low water pressure.If you’ve noticed a drop in water pressure in your bathroom, kitchen, or other area of your home, a burst water pipe could be the culprit.
Dripping or free-flowing water.Of course, if you ever spot a waterfall running down your walls, or a torrent of water coming through your ceiling, it’s a pretty sure bet that you’ve got a burst water pipe! If that happens, shut off the main water supply to your home and call us here at Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath and Beyond right away!

If you are concerned about a burst water pipe, trust the experts at Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath & Beyond who have been serving the Orlando community for more than 17 years. Call 407-751-1393 for your free estimate, or schedule online for 10% off your service.

Leaking Pipes? Burst Water Pipes? Call a Pro

Posted on May 10, 2016September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Pipe repair: DIY or Professional project?

When is DIY okay?

Homeowners occasionally try to undertake do it yourself (DIY) projects. For small projects that require little expertise such as repairing toilet hardware, replacing new faucets, or repairing a clogged drain, homeowners are safe and within their realm. In fact, being a smart and savvy homeowner includes knowing how to make minor fixes to your home. It is important, however, for a homeowner to know when attempting DIY project will cause more harm than good, and seek professional assistance.

Call in the Professionals!

A good rule of thumb to use when determining whether or not a plumber is needed is if you can’t see it, don’t try to fix it. For example, if you have a burst water pipe in your home, you cannot see the plumbing in the wall so it’s not a smart undertaking. Homeowners may also notice that their faucet or shower isn’t flowing as they should. It is okay to check if it’s a quick fix, however sometimes these problems are caused by internal plumbing issues that requires water pipe repair. If you are faced with any such situation, our professional licensed plumbing staff at Jeff’s Kitchen and Bath can assist. Our plumbers will actively listen as you describe the issue and propose the needed solution.

Burst water pipes in a home can be caused by many reasons, however, the most prevalent causes are outdated pipes, cold weather, and rust. Homeowners, especially those in older homes, are encouraged to have biannual inspections to prevent unwanted water pipe repair.

If you suspect that you have a burst water pipe in your home, contact Jeff’s Kitchen and Beyond at (407) 968-1801 for our free in home estimate. Our staff is available 24/7’s for your emergency plumbing needs.

Re-pipe With Pex Pipe In Orlando

Posted on April 9, 2013 by chad siemer

Repiping with Pex Pipe

Getting a property ready to sell typically involves cleaning, repairing minor items, and maybe some painting. However, if you live in Orlando, Florida, readying a property for sale can also mean that the property will have to be re-piped. The reason for this is that many properties built in Orlando in the early 80’s and 90’s contain polybutylene piping.

Twenty to thirty years ago, polybutylene was used in construction because it was cost effective and easy to install. The downside to polybutylene is that over time this piping will fail resulting in leakage and water damage. When it became apparent that polybutylene piping was failing, litigation ensued. As a result, properties containing this type of piping must now be re-piped in order to be sold.

There may be obvious and not so obvious signs that indicate that a property contains polybutylene piping. The piping itself is usually gray, blue, or black and has a diameter of an inch or less. Many property owners may not pay attention to the type of piping they have though. For them, the first sign of a problem is a rising water bill. Lower than normal water pressure may also indicate that a plumbing system is leaking. There may be soggy areas in the yard or higher than normal water runoff from the yard if part of the exterior system has failed. In the event of a major leak, substantial damage can occur to the interior of the property as well as to any personal items located within. Water spots on walls and ceilings and wet spots on flooring can also indicate possible problems. Furthermore, mold and mildew can also result from leakage and this can open the door for a host of health concerns as well.

For those needing to re-pipe a property that contains polybutylene, the question then becomes what product should be used to re-pipe. There are options such as copper and CPVC piping. However, the best option is Pex piping installed by a professional plumber. Pex is an abbreviation for a product known as cross-linked polyethylene.

Using Pex piping results in numerous advantages. One of the biggest is the flexibility of the piping. Greater flexibility makes Pex easy to install. The increased flexibility also results in fewer sharp turns in piping which in turn leads to better water pressure. Pex is also less expensive than alternatives such as copper. With copper theft being at an all time high, some in the scrap metal market have been known to steal copper. Since Pex is not a scrap metal, it is not very attractive to thieves. Pex is also less likely to develop the leaks than can occur with other piping systems. Finally, Pex can be used in conjunction with other piping through the use of special fittings.

Selling a property in today’s market requires making sure that the property is attractive, well-maintained, and without any system issues. For those trying to sell in the Orlando area, one system issue can be a plumbing system consisting of polybutylene piping. For property owners in this situation, professionally installed Pex piping is a great choice.

Repiping done right with Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond, call today for a FREE estimate 407-968-1801. Save $200 off your entire repipe job by mentioning the coupon below.

Repiping Your Orlando Home With Pex Piping

Posted on April 4, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

The PEX piping that we use has several advantages over CPVC and copper piping. Also known as cross-linked polyethylene, PEX piping is reliable and safe.

Advantages of Using PEX Instead Of Copper

Cheaper

One of the main advantages that PEX piping has over piping made from copper is cost. In most cases, you will find that PEX piping is about a third of the cost of copper piping. For example, half-inch PEX will cost a third of the price of the same size copper piping.

However, PEX might require special tools that we need to install fittings, which can slightly offset the savings. In most situations, you can save a lot of money by choosing PEX piping over piping that is made from copper.

Faster Installation
When we install PEX piping, it’s normally much faster than installing copper. A PEX installation can be imagined as the process of installing a garden hose to a few different fixtures, which means it’s easy and fast. Regardless of the plumbing system, PEX connections are normally much easier than soldering various copper pipe connections.

No Corrosion
One of the biggest problems with copper piping is corrosion. Over time, acidic water can easily corrode copper piping. However, corrosion is a problem that simply doesn’t exist with PEX piping. Since PEX is not harmed by acidic water, it’s especially useful for areas that run on acidic water.

Advantages of Using PEX Instead Of CPVC
In terms of cost, CPVC and PEX are about the same. However, it’s very likely that PEX will still be a better option. Unlike CPVC, PEX piping does not require glue. Although this benefit is great for someone installing their own PEX, it makes our job much easier and safer.

Since PEX doesn’t require glue, we don’t have to wear a respirator or work in areas with superb ventilation. Also, if it ever freezes, PEX piping is not likely to burst. Once frozen, the chance of CPVC bursting is much more likely. PEX is also much easier to “fish” through walls because it’s very flexible. The fact that the PEX that we use is available in long lengths makes our job much easier.

How Reliable Is PEX?
In many countries, PEX has been used for decades. Many of the homes in these countries have PEX piping that is over 30 years old. Even after decades of use, the PEX piping in these homes continues to maintain strength.

The majority of PEX piping problems are caused by faulty fittings and sloppy installations. It’s not the tubing itself, but faulty installation practices that cause most of the problems that people have had with this type of piping.

Repiping done right with Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond, call today for a FREE estimate 407-968-1801. Save $200 off your entire repipe job by mentioning the coupon below.

Signs That You May Need A Repiping In Your Home

Posted on April 3, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

It might be time to repipe your home

Like most homeowners, you probably don’t give much thought to the pipes in your home as long as your faucets run when you turn them on and your toilets flush when you pull the levers. Modern plumbing is efficient and requires little routine maintenance, so it’s easy to forget about the network of pipes that runs throughout your home. However, failing pipes are a serious matter. Leaky pipes can cause serious damage to your home’s structure and allow the growth of dangerous mold. Unfortunately, because your pipes are concealed within your walls, problems can go undetected. Sometimes it can be hard to tell when your home needs a repiping.

Often, the first sign of trouble is an unusually large water bill. Because leaks often start small and get larger over time, compare your current water usage with last year’s bill. Unexplained increases in usage are a good indicator that you have one or more leaky or broken pipes. To be sure, make sure all of your plumbing fixtures and appliances, such as toilets, taps, washing machines and dishwashers, are not being used. Don’t forget about less obvious things such as yard sprinklers or ice makers. Then check your water meter. If the meter shows water use when you aren’t using any, you almost certainly have a leak somewhere.

In most homes, shut-off valves for each fixture or appliance are located under or behind the units. Sink valves are often found inside vanities or sink base cabinets. Shut off all the valves, then check the meter again. If the meter is not running, the problem probably lies in one of your fixtures or appliances. Contact your plumbing professional for a quick resolution. If the meter shows that water is still flowing even with all the valves shut off, you probably have a more serious plumbing problem. Your home’s pipes will likely need to be repaired or replaced.

Other signs of failing pipes include damp or stale smells that indicate the growth of mold or mildew due to moisture from leaks. Chronic leaks may leave discolored areas on walls, especially in the corners and where the walls meet ceilings or floors. Water stains often have clear edges and may show streaks of gray or black. With a gloved finger, touch suspicious stains and look for the telltale shine of moisture on the latex. Black or colored spots or patches may indicate mold or mildew growth. Often, these signs hide in places you don’t often look, such as the insides of cabinets, closets and utility rooms.

When you need a reliable plumber to repipe your home, look no further than the Repiping pros at Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond. Give us a call today for free estimate. 407-968-1801

Considerations for an Efficient Commercial Repiping

Posted on March 23, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Apartment complex, condominium and commercial property owners in Orlando, FL need to plan out a repipe thoroughly and properly.

As we’re sure you are all aware, few things are more important to ease of business flow than efficiency. Efficiency means that the least time is taken for necessary tasks to be completed. Tenants in your complex, shoppers in your store, or employees in your business all need the days to flow by effortlessly in order for productivity to mount. There will be unhappiness and lag in business if problems come up which affect efficiency. Plumbing problems can happen at any time and these problems will put a huge damper on all efforts to maximize efficiency. This is why it is essential to find a local plumber who understands the idea of efficiency in order to perform the best job on the best allowable time slot, for the best price on commercial repipes available. Your plumber for the job is Jeff’s Kitchen Bath and Beyond.

Repiping can be massive challenged for complexes or businesses which rely on day flow and function of people. However, the need to repipe can come up from many instances. Especially for owners who have purchased an older property from pre-existing businesses, the plumbing in your building may be old or faulty – merely hanging on by a thread. In fact, piping may be so old it fails to pass local regulations. This can be a huge health and relation problem, not to mention a complicated one to solve if you are pressed for time. It is always best to have the plumbing inspected by a local commercial plumbing expert. Regular pipe leaks and drain clogs are good sing of some underlying issue which could warrant a repipe. Otherwise, these issues would be isolated and sporadic. Take the time to evaluate your systems as necessary to make appropriate repairs.

As stated previously, a repipe needs to be efficient especially if it is to be completed in a specific time frame while workflow continues. Only a time-tested experience plumber like Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath and Beyond know how to optimize the repipe job to give you the efficiency you need at the price you expect. We will confer with the business or property owner to ensure that a repiping will be necessary and establish a strict timeline to give you a high level of transparency without disregarding efficiency. It is best to handle the issue head on once it is discovered in order to successfully prevent sanitary health problems and more damages caused by water from leaking or bursting pipes.

Repiping is a good idea because of the lowered long term risk of plumbing problems. A commercial repipe will allow you to lower plumbing concerns on your already large priorities list. An updated plumbing system is easier to maintain, more efficient and function and will allow you peace of mind. Make sure that your current piping isn’t allowed to continue causing problems like wall and floor damage which could both present structural problems to your building and cause you to pay even more in alternative damages.

You need a plumbing expert who understands operational efficiency. You won’t find a plumber better equipped for a commercial repipe than Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath and Beyond. Call us today at (407) 968–1801 to ask about our pricing and expert service!

Everything you should know about slab leaks

Posted on February 19, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Slab leaks can be a serious issue if not dealt with promptly. If left untreated, slab leaks can eventually lead to erosion of the foundation itself. Slab leaks occur when the pipes within a home structure are corroded and start to leak. Usually these pipes are placed next to critical components of the home like flooring, supports or fixtures and this leaking poses a pretty big threat to your home if it affects these key components.

It is important for one to thoroughly look for signs of a slab leak before it’s too late. One of the most common signs for a slab leak is finding water seepage through the cement foundations of the home. There may also be a slight accumulation of flooding water. These are all signs that the pipes within a slab may have been ruptured and are currently leaking water. While it may take some time for symptoms to be seen from a slab leak, once they are noticed they should be repaired as soon as possible.

There may also be more noticeable signs of a slab leak such as low water pressure within the home lines and an increase in the water utility bill. Subtle hints like this should worry you enough to ask a professional for a thorough inspection of your pipes. Plumbing leaks and damages may be extensive without you even realizing. The longer you wait, the more you will spend in utility bills – all the while the problem is worsening with time.

Typically, a slab leak repair is accomplished by using a jackhammer to chip away at the foundation area that is need of repair. Once the slab has been cracked away at, the piping within the slab may then be repaired. It may also be necessary for one to have the water pipelines re-routed. While it may cost some money to repair a slab leak, these expenses are well worth it when compared to the potential damage costs an untreated leak could lead to. It is more beneficial for one to consult with a professional contracting company that specializes in slab leak matters to receive professional service from servicemen who are trained to repair these types of leaks.

Orlando, FL’s go-to plumber for slab leaks, piping repairs and residential plumbing maintenance is Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath & Beyond. Call us (407) 968-1801 at for our supreme residential plumbing service. We offer accurate pipe inspection at competitive pricing if you think your system is having problems.

Determine if your Home Needs Repiping

Posted on February 12, 2013September 28, 2021 by chad siemer

Having your home repiped is a big deal. It can be done all at once or in sections, room by room. Sometimes it will only be a bathroom or a kitchen that needs to be done. The most certain way to determine what needs done, is to have a plumber come and inspect. But this can cost money you may not need to spend. Here is a short list of things to look for, before you contact your local plumber.

1. Lack of temperature control – When you get scalding water through your shower head if somebody turns on the dishwasher, you might need new pipes. The problem here is differential pressure between hot and cold lines, and can be caused by worn, blocked, or leaking pipes.

2. Discolored water – If your water has taken on a rusty hue, your pipes may be corroding, rusting, or allowing contaminants into your water supply. Rusty, muddy, or metallic flakes are common indicators.

3. Reduced water pressure – Blocked or leaky pipes reduce water pressure. Even if you have always had low water pressure, this could have been the cause all along. Plumbing that supplies water needs to be a closed system to maintain proper pressure. Obviously, a clogged or blocked water supply will have reduced pressure, simply because there is a lack of unimpeded flow.

4. Age of the building – Older buildings may still have lead pipes, which can be a health hazard in themselves. Older copper water lines may have been joined with lead based solder. Older PVC lines may have slow leaks in the joints from a lack of preventive care. If your home is older, it really is necessary to have the pipes checked by a plumber, and not just a general contractor.

All of these problems are signs of rusty, blocked, leaky or corroding pipes. The only way to know for certain what the underlying cause is, and if you need repiping, is to contact your local plumber. As with any expense in home repair and improvement, you should try to get at least two opinions and estimates. The best Orlando, FL plumber for the job is Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond. Call us today at (407) 968-1801 for an affordable home plumbing evaluation and for the most competitive prices on home repiping.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes in Orlando

Posted on January 2, 2013 by chad siemer

Though Orlando rarely gets bitterly cold in the winter, burst pipes can be a risk even if the temperature dips into the 50s. The risk of the pipes bursting is even greater if the home is a vacation home that isn’t used year round. However, a plumber can easily help a homeowner winter proof their home.

The first thing the plumber would do is turn off the water at the meter, or even have the local water company turn off the water to the house. Then, starting at the top of the house, the plumber should open up every single faucet, even the ones that the household doesn’t use very often. This would include an underground sprinkler system or an outdoor spigot. The plumber will then switch off and drain the water heater. In the end, the entire plumbing system will be drained in order to prevent a burst pipe.

The plumber will then go through the house, take out all of the clean out plugs in the sinks, take out the bathroom traps, then empty and replace them. He’ll need to siphon the water from the washing machine and the dishwasher. Then, he’ll pour an antifreeze and water mixture down the drains. He’ll flush the toilets, pour the antifreeze into the toilet bowls, then flush them again. The plumber will then pour full strength antifreeze down the bathtubs. However, he won’t pour antifreeze into the fresh water pipes.

When it comes to refilling the system again, the plumber will turn off all the faucets, then have the water restored to the house if it was cut off by the local water company. Then, the plumber will slowly open the main water supply valve.

The plumber has several options to choose from if the pipes do freeze. The first thing he’ll do is open the faucet the pipe serves to allow whatever steam to escape, for the steam itself can cause the pipe to burst. He can wrap layers of cloth around the pipe and pour hot water over it or use a heat lamp, electric heat tape wrapped around the pipe or even a blow drier. He might even tell the homeowner that the best thing to do is turn on the heat in the house and simply wait. In Orlando, it shouldn’t take long for a pipe to thaw.

Just experienced a burst pipe? do not sit around and wait! By assessing the problem quickly you can avoid unnecessary costly repairs! Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond are your Orlando Plumbing burst pipe repair specialist! call us today at (407) 968-1801.