When to Call an Emergency Plumber

When plumbing problems strike, you need a plumber who can respond immediately. Emergency Plumber Westminster is on call 24/7, and they have the tools, equipment, and training to tackle any situation.

Plumbing

Water damage can lead to mold, mildew, wood rot, and structural damage. Emergency repairs can reduce this damage, saving you money in repair costs.

When there’s no water coming into your home, it could be a sign of a major plumbing problem that needs immediate attention. If left untreated, it can lead to flooding, water damage, and even health risks like sewage backup. A skilled emergency plumber will be able to find the source of the issue and repair it before it gets out of hand.

Experiencing a lack of water can also be caused by frozen pipes (depending on the weather) or an undetected leak somewhere in your home. The best thing to do in this situation is turn off your water main so that it’s not continuously running, and then call a plumbing service as soon as possible.

While it might be tempting to call just any plumber that claims to offer emergency plumbing services, this isn’t always a good idea. Not all plumbing problems require immediate attention, and calling the right plumber will save you both time and money. Emergency plumbers are specially trained to handle a wide range of plumbing issues, so you can rest assured that they’ll be able to identify and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

Some signs that you should call an emergency plumber include an overflowing toilet, a sewer backup, or foul sewage smells. Sewage backups and clogged toilets can cause serious damage to your home, and they’ll need to be addressed immediately to prevent further issues. Emergency plumbers are specially trained to handle these situations, and they’ll be able to clean up the mess and restore your plumbing back to normal.

A flooded basement is another common reason to call an emergency plumber. This type of plumbing issue usually occurs as a result of a burst pipe or a severe clog. Depending on the extent of the flooding, it can affect one or more rooms in your home and lead to extensive water damage. If you have a flood alarm installed in your home, it will alert you to any issues so that you can take the proper steps to mitigate the damage and contact a plumbing service as soon as possible.

Sewage Backup

If you wake up to a toilet full of sewage, it’s time to call an emergency plumber. Sewage backups are dangerous and can cause severe water damage in your home. They also pose health risks because of the bacteria and waste they contain. Emergency plumbers can use specialized equipment to restore your sewer line and prevent future backups.

A sewer backup can be caused by many things, including a blocked drain or broken pipe. It could also be the result of tree root intrusion or a septic tank problem. Emergency plumbers can use specialized cameras to inspect your sewer lines and determine the source of the problem. They can then use trenchless or traditional excavation techniques to repair the line and restore function.

You may notice a smelly sewage backup if it occurs in your home. Other symptoms include gurgling noises from your drains, a clogged sink or tub, or wastewater that backs up into your shower or toilet. In the event of a sewage backup, it’s important to turn off your home’s water supply at the main valve. You should also shut off any electricity if the wastewater gets near electrical outlets. You can further protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves and boots, avoiding contact with the sewage, and leaving the cleanup to professionals.

Sewage backups can cause serious health problems, so they should never be ignored. If you experience one, it’s crucial to act quickly. First, take steps to contain the spill by using towels or blankets to create a barrier around the affected area. You should also shut off your home’s water and electricity if possible to keep the backup from escalating. Finally, make sure to hire a professional sewage cleanup service to clean up the mess and prevent long-term problems.

While a stubborn drain clog might not seem like an emergency, it’s best to get it fixed as soon as possible. A quick response from a 24-hour plumber can help you avoid more expensive repairs later on. In addition to traditional drain-clearing methods, an emergency plumber might use a cable or drain auger device to break up and remove the clog. In severe cases, they can even install a wireless camera to detect and fix problems in your pipes before they cause major issues.

Clogged Drains

Often, we take our plumbing for granted until something goes wrong. And when it does, the consequences can be severe. Knowing the signs that indicate it’s time to call an emergency plumber can help you save money, protect your property, and minimize damage.

Whether it’s an overflowing toilet, clogged drain, or backed-up sewer line, these issues can quickly turn into a nightmare. Emergency plumbers are available round the clock to tackle such problems, ensuring your home is safe and sound.

Drains are an essential part of your plumbing system, but over time, they can become blocked with hair, grease, food scraps, or mineral buildup. This can lead to slow drainage, unpleasant odors, and even water damage. Emergency plumbers use special tools and techniques to clear even the most stubborn drain blockages. They can also inspect your drains using video camera inspection to pinpoint the cause and recommend any necessary repairs.

Unpleasant odors wafting through your home can be a sign of a major problem with your sewer line or septic tank. Emergency plumbers can conduct thorough inspections and repair or replace your sewer lines as needed. They’re also equipped to handle septic tank pumping and cleaning to keep your home healthy and functional.

If you notice water pooling around your home’s foundation, this is a sign that your water pipes have corroded or ruptured. This can lead to serious structural damage and costly repairs. Emergency plumbers are trained to quickly diagnose and fix these types of issues, minimizing damage and saving you money.

If you’re looking for a trusted emergency plumber, look no further than 128 Plumbing. Our skilled technicians are available 24/7 and can be reached via phone, email, or website chat. We offer transparent pricing and guaranteed services to give you peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! We proudly serve residents of Glens Falls, NY, and surrounding areas.

Main Line Leaks

Your home’s main water line connects your plumbing system to the public water supply and carries freshwater into your house. Unfortunately, leaks can develop in this important line and lead to a host of problems for your home’s interior. If you’re concerned about a leak in your water line, look out for the warning signs and call an emergency plumber as soon as possible to take care of it.

Hissing, bubbling, or gurgling sounds coming from your pipes are a sure sign of a main line leak. These sounds indicate the presence of rust, debris, or other materials in your pipes that need to be removed before the leak can be repaired. If you hear these sounds, shut off your water and call an emergency plumber immediately.

Unexplained increases in your monthly water bill can also be a sign of a main line leak. This happens when a leak goes unnoticed for an extended period of time, causing water to escape underground and raise your water bill significantly. Having routine water line inspections can help prevent these unexpected spikes in your monthly water bill.

If you see puddles or wet spots in your yard, especially near your sprinkler systems, this is a good indication that your main water line has a leak. If the leak isn’t addressed quickly, it can cause damage to your landscape and even the foundation of your home.

A leaking water line can also attract pests like ants and rats. These pests love the moisture and will start to make their way into your home if you don’t act fast enough. In addition to the annoyance, these pests can also carry diseases and cause other health issues for you and your family.

Emergency plumbing services provide peace of mind by ensuring that you can always count on prompt and expert assistance with any urgent situation. They can handle anything from a burst pipe to a clogged drain. Their knowledge of the latest tools and techniques ensures that your problem will be fixed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Top Roofing Tips for Improving Durability and Energy Efficiency

Your roof plays a crucial role in protecting your home from the elements while also contributing significantly to overall energy efficiency. A well-maintained, thoughtfully designed roof can last for decades, reduce utility costs, and add value to your property. With growing awareness of sustainable living and long-term cost savings, homeowners and builders alike are seeking ways to enhance both the durability and energy performance of roofing systems.

Here are the top roofing tips that can help you achieve long-lasting protection and improved energy efficiency.

roofing

Choose Durable Roofing Materials

One of the most important factors in roof longevity is material selection. Different materials offer varying levels of strength, weather resistance, and expected lifespan.

For maximum durability:

  • Metal roofs are known for their longevity and resistance to fire, mold, and rot.
  • Clay or concrete tiles offer excellent lifespan and withstand harsh climates.
  • Slate is one of the most durable options, though it’s heavier and more expensive.
  • Architectural shingles provide better durability than standard asphalt.

Selecting a roofing material that suits your climate and home structure is the first step toward a roof that lasts and performs well.

Prioritize Proper Installation

No matter how high-quality your roofing materials are, improper installation can lead to premature wear, leaks, and inefficiencies. Poor craftsmanship may cause issues like loose shingles, poor ventilation, or inadequate sealing—all of which reduce the roof’s effectiveness and lifespan.

Ensure your roof is installed according to industry standards and guidelines. Skilled labor and attention to detail during installation directly impact the long-term performance of your roof.

Use Reflective or Cool Roofing Options

Cool roofing materials are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofing. These materials help keep the home cooler, reduce the need for air conditioning, and lower energy bills—especially in warm climates.

Light-colored or specially coated roofing surfaces can significantly improve solar reflectance. Some materials are engineered with reflective granules or coatings that maintain their effectiveness over time.

Adding a cool roof can result in measurable energy savings, improved indoor comfort, and a longer roof lifespan due to reduced thermal expansion and contraction.

Install Adequate Roof Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential to maintaining a durable and energy-efficient roof. A well-ventilated roof system allows for consistent airflow, reducing heat buildup in the attic and preventing moisture accumulation.

Benefits of good ventilation include:

  • Lower attic temperatures in summer, reducing cooling costs
  • Prevention of condensation and mold in colder months
  • Reduced risk of ice dams in snowy climates
  • Longer life for roofing materials and insulation

Common ventilation systems include ridge vents, soffit vents, gable vents, and attic fans. The key is balancing intake and exhaust vents to promote effective airflow.

Ensure High-Quality Insulation Beneath the Roof

While ventilation removes hot air, insulation helps retain indoor temperatures. Proper insulation under your roof keeps heat out during summer and prevents warmth from escaping in winter.

Using insulation with a high R-value helps regulate indoor temperatures, reduces energy consumption, and lightens the load on HVAC systems. Inadequate insulation can lead to fluctuating temperatures, ice dam formation, and increased energy bills.

Combining ventilation and insulation is one of the most effective strategies for energy-efficient roofing.

Maintain Gutters and Drainage Systems

Gutters play a key role in protecting your roof by directing water away from the structure. When gutters are clogged or damaged, water can back up under the roofline, leading to rot, mold, and structural damage.

To maintain durability:

  • Clean gutters regularly, especially in the fall and after storms
  • Check for proper alignment and secure attachments
  • Ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation

Good drainage protects not only the roof but also the home’s walls and foundation from moisture damage.

Perform Routine Roof Inspections

Regular inspections help identify minor issues before they turn into costly problems. Inspect your roof at least twice a year—preferably in the spring and fall—and after major storms.

Things to look for include:

  • Cracked, curled, or missing shingles
  • Damaged flashing around vents and chimneys
  • Signs of mold, mildew, or algae growth
  • Sagging areas or signs of water pooling

Early detection of wear and tear allows for timely repairs that can significantly extend the roof’s life and maintain its energy efficiency.

Seal and Insulate Around Roof Penetrations

Roof penetrations, such as vents, chimneys, and skylights, are common sources of air leaks and moisture intrusion. Proper sealing and insulation around these areas are essential for maintaining the integrity and energy performance of your roof.

Use weather-resistant flashing and insulation materials designed for roofing applications. Regularly inspect these areas to ensure the seals remain intact and watertight.

Consider a Roof Coating for Added Protection

Roof coatings can be applied to certain types of roofs to enhance durability and energy performance. These coatings create a seamless, waterproof barrier that reflects sunlight and resists weathering.

Elastomeric and silicone coatings are popular for their flexibility, UV resistance, and ability to extend the life of existing roofing systems. They’re especially useful for flat or low-slope roofs.

Trim Overhanging Trees and Clear Debris

Overhanging tree branches can damage roofing materials during storms or shed leaves and debris that trap moisture. Moss and algae growth also accelerate roof deterioration.

Keep trees trimmed back to reduce the risk of damage and routinely clear off any debris from the roof surface. A clean roof lasts longer and performs better.

Improving your roof’s durability and energy efficiency doesn’t always require a complete overhaul. Many of the most effective solutions—like ventilation, insulation, regular inspections, and debris removal—are simple, affordable, and highly impactful.

Whether you’re building a new roof or maintaining an existing one, a proactive approach ensures that your home stays protected, energy-efficient, and comfortable for years to come. With the right strategies and ongoing care, your roof can be both a stylish and sustainable part of your home.