FAQCommon questions
Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions
The questions Markham homeowners put to us most, answered plainly. If yours is missing, ring (289) 216-9245.
Hands selecting tools from a well-organized toolbox on a concrete surface.
- A plumber answers the phone, not a call centre
- The fix explained before the first wrench turns
- Floors protected and the work area cleaned
- Houses, plazas and kitchens from Cornell to Milliken
- Licensing details confirmed when you call
- Residential
- Commercial
- Markham & York Region
Getting help
Most questions are easier to answer once we know a little about your home, so feel free to call. The answers below cover the topics that keep coming up. For longer, step-by-step help, see our homeowner answers.
From the van: Smell gas? That is not a plumbing call first: get everyone outdoors, then phone Enbridge Gas or 911 once you are clear of the building.
Questions about this
Which problems count as urgent?
Water you cannot stop, sewage coming up, no supply at all, or a leak near wiring. Close the main valve and phone straight away.
Where would my main valve be?
Look downstairs beside the meter, on the pipe poking through the foundation wall. Our shut-off guide walks you to and test it.
What is the usual lifespan of a hot water tank?
Often somewhere near a decade, give or take, with hardness and upkeep making the difference. Our lifespan guide lists the warning signs.
My tank is rented. Can you still help?
Whoever owns a rented tank is normally the one who services it; read the contract first. We can explain the choices, including what a buyout usually involves.
Why did my basement take on water in a storm?
Usual suspects: a pump that failed or could not keep up, a sewer surcharge with no check valve, or downspouts and grading sending water at the wall. A visit narrows it down.
Is there city money toward a backwater valve?
Programs like that have run in the region, but details shift. Look on the City of Markham website for whatever is on offer now before you book.
Is a permit required for a new tank or an extra bathroom?
Many plumbing alterations in Ontario need one. Swapping a fixture for a matching one usually does not. We tell you before the job begins.
Can scale and hard water be dealt with?
Yes. A softener or filter cuts the crust on fixtures and inside the tank. We tell you honestly whether it pays off in your home.
Do you quote before starting?
Always. Diagnosis, options, agreed price, then work.
How do I keep pipes from freezing?
Wrap exposed runs, close and drain outdoor taps each fall, and keep heat on in rooms with plumbing. Our frozen pipes guide has more.
Are flushable wipes really flushable?
No. They hold together much longer than tissue does, and are a frequent cause of sewer blockages.
Do you take on condo work?
Yes, inside your unit. For shared risers and building systems we coordinate with the property manager.