New is always nice, and if you’ve recently moved into a new construction property, you’re probably still enjoying the many advantages that come with it. New construction has several advantages, like being the first people to live in it, with newly plastered and painted walls and a brand new kitchen.
However, there are sometimes additional challenges with new builds, and the issues might range from fractures in the walls to plumbing issues. New construction plumbing problems are all too common. Being aware of the pitfalls can help you avoid these ten problems and ensure your new home or building is off to a great start.
1. Leaky Pipes
Leaking pipes inside walls and under slabs don’t manifest until the drywall is installed and ceilings and walls are painted. This means that leaks will go undetected for weeks or months before you notice them.
2. No Pipe Stops
Why does this matter? A lack of pipe stops can mean that no water gets into your home when you turn off the water in the street. Without pipe stops on either side of the meter, water can just run out onto the street. Pipe stops are required by code in new construction homes in some areas, so be sure to check with local authorities if you have any doubts
3. Clogged Pipes
For various reasons, a clogged pipe or two might be inconvenient. Unfortunately, they’re frequently a precursor to future plumbing issues. Pipes can become clogged for a variety of reasons. It may seem unusual, but the environment could be causing your problem. Roots from neighboring trees can damage, clog, or ruin your system’s pipes.
It’s sometimes the result of poor installation or neglect on the part of the home builder. If your builder built other homes in your neighborhood, talk to your neighbors to find out if they have similar problems.
This is just one of the many reasons why a complete inspection by a certified plumber is essential before you agree to buy a home, even if it is newer. A comprehensive inspection might save you a lot of money in the long run.
4. Water Pressure Problems
Many homes in new construction areas have a problem with low pressure, which may be due to undersized pipes or inadequate water supply. Water main problems can also cause pressure issues.
Pressure loss in your plumbing system is more than just a nuisance; it’s a health hazard. Low flow rates can contribute to “back siphonage” when dirty water flows back into the clean water lines through drain traps. This condition causes unpleasant odors and can pose serious health risks from bacteria growth in stagnated piping systems.
5. Drain Blockages
If you have clogs in your plumbing pipes, you certainly have clogs in your drains. When pipes become clogged, the drain might become clogged as well. The water cannot flow as freely as it should because the drain is clogged. You must take care of this as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your drains and pipes.
6. Suddenly High Water Bills
If you notice a sudden spike in your water bills, there is a good chance there is a leak in your plumbing system. It could be that there is a leaky faucet, or perhaps something more serious has suddenly sprung a leak. Regardless of how it happens, if you suddenly see your bills going up, water is escaping from somewhere in the plumbing system and needs to be dealt with immediately.
7. Leaks Around Appliances
Pay attention to your appliances like your dishwasher and laundry machines. If you notice a small puddle of water every time you run your dishwasher or if your clothes take longer than usual to dry, it may indicate that something has sprung a leak or your builder did not install the appliance correctly.
If more than one appliance is leaking, it means that your appliances may not have been installed correctly or at all. This will need professional attention as soon as possible. Never use your appliances until they are correctly attached to the piping connections within your home because you could risk electrocution, shock, or other injuries related to faulty appliance installation. Get help from a qualified plumber.
8. Discovering Signs of Mold and Mildew
If you see mold and mildew growing somewhere in the plumbing system, such as behind your toilet (usually this area), then this could indicate that water is backing up into the walls. This means you have a severe blockage somewhere that must be dealt with immediately. You will need professional help with this problem because it can be dangerous if left unchecked.
9. Cloudy Water
If you flush the toilet and the water in your bowl becomes cloudy, this may indicate air in the pipes or a blockage somewhere. Backed-up waste can cause severe plumbing and health risks, so it’s vital to resolve this immediately.
10. Bad Odors
If you notice weird smells from nowhere, you may have a sewage problem that your builder did not remedy before they built your house. Rotting organic matter can produce some nasty odors, and if you’re smelling them in your home, it is a surefire sign that you have low water pressure in your drains or something is wrong with the septic tank.
Why Do Plumbing Problems Happen With New Construction?
There are numerous advantages to plumbing in new construction, including the assurance that everything is brand new and will last for many years. This is especially true of boilers and hot water cylinders, which are costly to replace, as well as any integrated plumbing appliances, such as a dishwasher that may have been included in your sale.
However, with new construction, you may not discover faults until you occupy the house, and because you’re the first to truly test the plumbing, you’ll be the one to deal with any issues.
Buying a home in new construction areas without having it inspected by an expert plumber before you buy could cost you thousands of dollars down the road. Preventative maintenance is always cheaper than correcting mistakes after you’ve moved in.
What If Your New Home Has a Plumbing Problem?
Please don’t freak out, but have them rectified as soon as possible. Some minor problems, such as a slow drain, may be resolved quickly. Cloudy water may indicate the presence of air in the pipes, which is a simple fix.
Foul odors can occur if there is a vent problem, which can occur during the house’s repair, or if something hasn’t been appropriately linked, resulting in the waste from your toilet not exiting your home as it should. You can resolve this, but you must do it as quickly as possible.
Some leaks are apparent, but others may be hidden behind a wall, with the only indication being a higher water bill. This could have happened because of a bad connection or a pipe breaking after installation in a new home, but your plumber can examine and try to locate and remedy the leak.
We Do It Right the First Time
Certified Plumbing of Brevard is a full-service plumbing contractor, providing quality plumbing services to homeowners and businesses in Brevard County for over 30 years. We are licensed and insured, and our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to meeting your every need.
We understand that finding the right plumbing contractor can be a daunting task. That’s why we offer a wide range of services, from new construction plumbing to repairs and maintenance, so you can rest assured that we have you covered. Plus, we are always here to answer any questions you may have – so please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact us today by calling (321) 676-0812 or clicking here. We’re excited to hear from you and happy to assist you with your needs today!
