Plumbing
Bathtub, Shower Walls, Base, & Enclosure - Caulk/Grout missing
Report Description:
There are open joints observed in the shower walls or base. The inspector is unable to determine the condition of the underlying material. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
This statement indicates that there are gaps or open joints present in the shower walls or base. These gaps could be between tiles, along seams, or at the junction between the walls and the base of the shower. When water penetrates these gaps, it can lead to moisture damage, such as mold growth, deterioration of structural materials, and even water leakage to surrounding areas.
It's important to note that the condition of the underlying materials is unknown, which suggests that there could already be damage due to water penetration. Therefore, addressing the gaps promptly with caulk or grout is essential to prevent further deterioration and maintain the integrity of the shower structure.
What is the most common solution?
The recommended solution is to repair with caulk or grout to prevent water penetration into the underlying materials.
Repairing with caulk or grout involves filling in these gaps to create a watertight seal. Caulk is typically used for joints or gaps that are subject to movement or expansion, such as those between the shower base and walls, while grout is used for static joints between tiles.
To fix open joints in the shower walls or base, follow these steps:
Inspect and Clean: Begin by thoroughly inspecting the shower walls and base to identify any gaps or open joints where water could penetrate. Clean the areas around the joints to remove any dirt, grime, or old caulking or grout.
Choose the Right Material: Determine whether caulk or grout is more appropriate for the type of joint you are repairing. Caulk is typically used for joints that are subject to movement, such as where the walls meet the base, while grout is used for static joints between tiles.
Prepare the Surface: Ensure the joints are clean, dry, and free of any debris before applying caulk or grout. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the area and remove any remaining residue.
Apply Caulk or Grout: Load a caulk gun with silicone or acrylic caulk if you're using caulk, or mix grout according to the manufacturer's instructions if you're using grout. Apply the caulk or grout to the joint using steady pressure, ensuring it fills the gap completely.
Smooth the Surface: Use a caulk smoothing tool, a damp finger, or a grout float to smooth out the caulk or grout and remove any excess. Ensure the joint is filled evenly and there are no gaps or voids.
Allow to Cure: Let the caulk or grout dry and cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically takes several hours or overnight, depending on the product and environmental conditions.
Test for Waterproofing: Once the caulk or grout has cured, test the waterproofing by running water over the repaired joints. Check for any leaks or signs of water penetration. If necessary, apply additional caulk or grout to areas that may need reinforcement.
Monitor and Maintain: Regularly inspect the shower walls and base for signs of new gaps or deterioration in the caulk or grout. Repair any issues promptly to prevent water damage and maintain the integrity of the shower structure.
Sinks, Fixtures, Faucets, & Valves - Drain stopper observations
Report Description:
The drain stopper is in need of repair. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that the mechanism in the drain that typically stops water from flowing out is either absent or not functioning correctly. When you pull up or push down the stopper lever, it should block the drain to hold water in the sink or bathtub. However, in this case, it's either not there or doesn't work properly, so water might not stay in the fixture when you want it to.
What is the most common solution?
The solution would be to repair or replace the missing or malfunctioning drain stopper. This might involve installing a new stopper mechanism or ensuring that the existing one is properly connected and functioning as intended.
Sinks, Fixtures, Faucets, & Valves - Active leak under sink
Report Description:
There is an active leak found in the plumbing. Further evaluation and repair or replacement as needed by a qualified specialist is recommended.
What does it mean?
An active leak means that water is currently leaking from a pipe, fixture, or plumbing component. This could be due to a variety of reasons such as a damaged pipe, loose connection, or malfunctioning fixture. It requires immediate attention to prevent water damage and further plumbing issues.
What is the most common solution?
The solution for an active plumbing leak depends on its cause and location. Here are some general steps to address it:
Turn off water supply: Locate the main shut-off valve for your home's water supply and turn it off to stop the flow of water and prevent further leakage.
Identify the source: Determine where the leak is coming from. It could be a burst pipe, leaking fixture, or damaged plumbing component.
Repair or replace: Depending on the severity and type of leak, you may need to repair or replace the damaged section of plumbing. This could involve fixing a leaking joint, patching a hole, or replacing a broken pipe or fixture.
Dry affected areas: Clean up any water and moisture to prevent mold and water damage. Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove water, and use fans or dehumidifiers to dry out the area.
Seek professional help if needed: If the leak is significant or you're unsure how to fix it, it's best to call a licensed plumber to assess the situation and perform any necessary repairs. They have the expertise and tools to handle plumbing issues safely and effectively.
Sinks, Fixtures, Faucets, & Valves - Angle Stop Valve observations
Report Description:
The angle stop valves have been observed to one or more issues listed above. Please read more about angle stop valves in the plumbing informational section of the report. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
Angle stop valves are plumbing components that control the flow of water to specific fixtures, like sinks and toilets. When we say they have "one or more issues listed above," it means they may have problems like leaks, corrosion, or difficulty turning on and off. To understand these issues better, you can find more information about angle stop valves in the plumbing section of the report.
What is the most common solution?
The solution would depend on the specific issues observed with the angle stop valves. For example, if there are leaks, they may need to be repaired or replaced. If there's corrosion, they may need cleaning or replacement. It's best to consult a qualified plumber to assess the situation and recommend the appropriate solution based on the specific issues identified.
Toilets - Loose toilet at the base
Report Description:
The toilet is in need of repair. Further evaluation and repair or replacement as needed by a qualified specialist is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that the toilet is not securely fixed to the floor and may wobble or move when used. To fix this issue, the toilet should be properly anchored to the floor using bolts or screws. This ensures stability and prevents leaks or damage to the flooring.
What is the most common solution?
To resolve this issue, the toilet needs to be securely attached to the floor. This involves tightening or replacing the bolts that secure the toilet base to the floor flange. Additionally, ensuring that the wax ring seal between the toilet and the floor flange is properly installed and sealed can help prevent leaks. If the floor is damaged or uneven, it may need to be repaired or leveled before reattaching the toilet.
Sinks, Fixtures, Faucets, & Valves - Faucet is loose
Report Description:
The faucet is in need of repair. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
When we say the faucet is loose, it means that it's not securely attached to the sink or countertop. This can lead to wobbling or movement when you turn the faucet on or off, and it may not function properly.
What is the most common solution?
The solution for a loose faucet is to tighten the mounting hardware or screws that hold it in place. This typically involves accessing the area under the sink and using a wrench or screwdriver to secure the faucet firmly to the countertop or sink surface. If the problem persists, it may require replacing worn or damaged parts or seeking professional assistance from a plumber.
Bathtub & Shower Plumbing - Shower diverter working improperly
Report Description:
The tub spout is in need of repair or replacement. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that the mechanism responsible for redirecting water between different fixtures in the shower or tub, such as the faucet and the shower head, is not functioning correctly. As a result, water may not flow properly to the shower head when the shower is turned on.
What is the most common solution?
The solution would involve repairing or replacing the shower diverter mechanism to ensure proper transfer of water between the fixtures in the shower or tub, allowing water to flow smoothly to the shower head when desired.
Sinks, Fixtures, Faucets, & Valves-Trap - Corroded
Report Description:
There was corrosion observed. This is generally an indication of a past problem with water leaking. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
When the drain trap is corroded, it means that the metal or material of the trap has been damaged or eaten away over time, often due to exposure to moisture. Corrosion in the drain trap can indicate that there has been leaking in the past or that there is a current leak present. Leaks can cause water damage and may lead to further deterioration of the plumbing system or surrounding structures if not addressed. It's important to have a plumber inspect the corroded drain trap to determine the extent of the damage and to repair or replace it as needed to prevent further issues.
What is the most common solution?
The solution for a corroded drain trap is to have a plumber inspect it to determine the extent of the damage. Depending on the severity of the corrosion and whether there are any active leaks, the plumber may recommend repairing or replacing the drain trap. This typically involves disassembling the affected section of the plumbing system, removing the corroded trap, and installing a new one. Additionally, if there are any leaks or damage to surrounding pipes or fixtures, those will also need to be addressed during the repair process. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help prevent further corrosion and water damage in the future.
Bathtub & Shower Plumbing - Tub spout loose
Report Description:
The tub spout is in need of repair or replacement. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that the tub's water spout isn't securely sealed to the wall, which could allow water to leak behind the wall.
What is the most common solution?
The solution would be to properly seal the tub spout against the wall to prevent water from leaking behind it.
Bathtub & Shower Plumbing - Tub spout caulking
Report Description:
The tub spout is in need of repair or replacement. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that the tub's water spout isn't securely sealed to the wall, which could allow water to leak behind the wall.
What is the most common solution?
The solution would be to properly seal the tub spout against the wall to prevent water from leaking behind it.
Bathtub & Shower Plumbing - Tub/shower spout leaking
Report Description:
The tub spout is in need of repair or replacement. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that water is dripping or leaking from the tub or shower spout when it's not supposed to, usually when the water is turned off. It's a sign of a plumbing issue that needs to be addressed to prevent water wastage and potential damage to the surrounding area.
What is the most common solution?
The solution would involve fixing or replacing the tub/shower spout to stop the leakage. This might require tightening connections, replacing seals, or installing a new spout altogether, depending on the cause of the leak. It's important to address this promptly to prevent further water damage and conserve water.
Toilets - Toilet loose at the tank
Report Description:
The toilet is in need of repair. Further evaluation and repair or replacement as needed by a qualified specialist is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that the connection between the toilet tank and the base is not secure, which could lead to potential leaks. To fix this issue, the toilet tank needs to be securely fastened to the base using appropriate hardware, such as bolts and washers. This ensures a tight seal and prevents water from leaking out of the tank.
What is the most common solution?
To solve this issue, the loose toilet tank needs to be properly attached to the base. This typically involves tightening the bolts or screws that secure the tank to the base. Additionally, any damaged or worn-out hardware should be replaced to ensure a secure connection. Once properly secured, the toilet should be tested to ensure that it does not wobble or move, which helps prevent potential leaks.3
Bathtub & Shower Plumbing - Drain stopper inoperable
Report Description:
The drain stopper is in need of repair. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that the mechanism used to stop or allow water to drain from the sink or bathtub is not working correctly. It may not close fully, allowing water to leak or drain slowly, or it may not open fully, causing water to accumulate in the basin.
What is the most common solution?
The solution would typically involve repairing or replacing the drain stopper mechanism to ensure it functions properly. This might involve tightening or adjusting parts, cleaning out any debris that could be obstructing its movement, or replacing worn-out components. If it's beyond simple repair, replacing the entire stopper assembly might be necessary.
Bathtub & Shower Plumbing - Fixture Observations
Report Description:
The fixtures are in need of repair. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
This means that the components of the shower, like the handles or knobs used to control the water flow, are not firmly secured in place. They may move or wobble when touched.
What is the most common solution?
The solution would involve tightening or securing the shower fixtures to ensure they are stable and properly functioning. This might involve tightening screws or bolts that hold the fixtures in place or replacing any worn-out parts that are causing the looseness.
Sinks, Fixtures, Faucets, & Valves - Slow drain
Report Description:
There is a slow drain. Repair or replacement is recommended.
What does it mean?
A slow drain refers to a plumbing fixture, such as a sink, bathtub, or shower, that drains water more slowly than usual. This could indicate a partial blockage or obstruction somewhere in the plumbing system.
What is the most common solution?
The solution for a slow drain depends on the specific cause:
Blockage: Try using a plunger or drain snake to clear the blockage. Chemical drain cleaners may also help, but use them cautiously. For persistent blockages, consider calling a plumber.
Ventilation Issues: Clear any obstructions from plumbing vents on the roof. A plumber can assess and fix ventilation problems if needed.
Pipe Misalignment or Damage: Have a plumber inspect and repair any misaligned or damaged pipes.
Sediment Buildup: Flush the drain lines with hot water or a vinegar-baking soda mixture to remove sediment. Professional drain cleaning services may be needed for severe buildup.
Improper Installation: Consult a plumber to correct any improper installations or drainage issues.
Drain/Vent/waste plumbing - Aging Cast Iron/Galvanized
Report Description:
There are cast iron or galvanized drain lines present. These material types in this age range begin to become problematic. Budgeting for replacement or repair as leaks occur is recommended. It is recommended that an expert is contacted to visually scope the interior of the drain lines in order to visually observe the interior condition of the drain. If the lines have been scoped, evaluate the videos and follow the recommendations of the sewer inspection report.
What does it mean?
This statement indicates that the property has drain lines made of either cast iron or galvanized material. These materials, particularly in older properties, can start to deteriorate over time, leading to potential problems like leaks. The recommendation is to budget for the eventual replacement or repair of these drain lines as issues arise.
Here's a breakdown of the explanation:
Material Types: The drain lines in the property are made of either cast iron or galvanized material. These materials were commonly used in older construction but can become problematic as they age.
Age-Related Issues: Due to the age of the property and the materials used, these drain lines are prone to developing issues over time. This could include corrosion, rust, or deterioration of the piping, leading to leaks or other plumbing problems.
Budgeting for Replacement or Repair: It's advisable for the property owner to allocate funds for the eventual replacement or repair of these drain lines. This means setting aside money to address any leaks or plumbing issues that may arise due to the aging infrastructure.
Expert Assessment: It's recommended to have a plumbing expert visually inspect the interior condition of the drain lines. This can be done through a process called scoping, where a specialized camera is inserted into the drain lines to assess their condition. This visual inspection helps determine the extent of any damage or deterioration and informs decisions about repair or replacement.
In summary, the recommendation is to be proactive about addressing potential issues with the drain lines by budgeting for maintenance and seeking expert assessment when necessary. This approach can help prevent more significant problems and ensure the proper functioning of the property's plumbing system.
What is the most common solution?
The solution involves taking several steps:
Budgeting for Replacement or Repair: Allocate funds to address any issues that may arise with the drain lines. This could involve setting aside money specifically for plumbing repairs or including potential costs in the overall property maintenance budget.
Monitoring for Leaks: Regularly inspect the drain lines for signs of leaks or damage. Look for any water stains, dampness, or unusual odors that could indicate a problem with the plumbing.
Seeking Professional Assessment: Contact a plumbing expert to visually inspect the interior condition of the drain lines. This may involve using specialized equipment such as cameras to assess the extent of any damage or deterioration.
Addressing Issues Promptly: If any problems are identified during the inspection, take prompt action to repair or replace the affected drain lines. Delaying repairs could lead to further damage and potentially more costly repairs in the future.
Consider Upgrading to Modern Materials: Depending on the condition of the existing drain lines, it may be advisable to consider upgrading to modern materials that are more durable and less prone to corrosion. Discuss options with the plumbing expert to determine the best course of action for the property.