Frequently Asked Questions

Bathroom Plumbing

What can I do if my toilet overflows?

First, remove the toilet tank lid and lift the float or fill valve to stop the water from refilling the tank. Then, turn off the water supply to the toilet – this is usually the pipe at the bottom of the toilet, and the valve is usually on the pipe itself. Finally, turn off your home’s main water and assess the issue. If the water continues to overflow after turning off the main water, the issue could be unusually serious. Either way, it’s best to call a plumber to get to the root cause of the issue after an overflow issue.

Why is the water in my shower suddenly flowing slow?

Unfortunately this is a lot like asking “why does my stomach hurt?” There are many potential culprits, all ranging from quick fixes to more serious problems. Here at Bud Matthews Services, we see a lot of scale buildup, poor overall water pressure, blocked pipes, and showerheads not up to the task. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem for certain.

Why isn’t my bathtub draining?

This could be due to a broken or rusted stopper, or the pipe itself may be blocked. First try pulling the stopper out and see if that fixes the problem. If not, you might have a real clog on your hands, which we recommend calling in the professionals to assess.

Bathroom Remodeling

How long does it typically take to remodel a bathroom?

This depends on the scope of work involved, but since the “it depends” answer drives us crazy too, here’s a sample timeline (an example ONLY) of a real full remodeling project that didn’t include moving taps and toilets around:

1. Design and concepting – 1 week
2. Scope finalization and contract agreement – 2 to 3 weeks
3. Material selection – 1 week
4. Material order and delivery process – 3 to 6 weeks
5. Project prep (demolition, removal, etc.) – 1 week
6. Project execution (installation, painting, flooring, electrical, etc.) – 2 to 3 weeks
7. Finishes and clean-up – 1 to 2 weeks

Should I remodel my bathroom before selling my house?

Data from Zillow indicates that over one quarter of US-based homeowners remodel their bathrooms before putting their homes on the market. Zillow data also indicates that bathroom remodels have an incredible return on investment. Even small cosmetic updates can yield as much as $1.71 in home value for ever $1 spent on the project.

Do I need to have the design all figured out before starting the process?

Having a general idea is helpful, but most remodeling services offer design and consultation services to help you refine your vision. Don’t let a creative block or lack of niche knowledge stop you from getting the bathroom of your dreams!

Indoor Air Quality

Is indoor air quality really a big deal?

Yes. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency ranks indoor air pollution one of the top five environmental hazards. Americans spend most of their time inside, and indoor air is often 2 to 5 times more polluted than typical outdoor air. Polluted indoor air can have serious effects on respiratory health, especially for those suffering from allergies, asthma, etc.

What are the most common indoor air pollutants?  

Some common indoor air pollutants include:

• Asbestos
• Dust
• Pet Dander
• Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Nitrogen
• Pesticides
• Radon
• Secondhand Smoke
• Volatile Organic Compounds

How can I keep tabs on my indoor air quality?

Improving ventilation and having a professional do routine annual maintenance on all your HVAC systems is important. You can also invest in an indoor air quality monitor or DIY home testing kits.

Air Filtration

How do I know if I need air filtration for my home?

Air filters are a standard feature found with any forced–air heating and air conditioning system. While some air filters can provide advanced protection against smaller particles that can lead to allergy symptoms or illness, it may take a separate indoor air quality system to do the trick in your home.

If your air filter does not seem to help relieve symptoms in your family members no matter how often you replace it (which should be once a month), it may be time for an upgrade.

What is the best air purifier for someone with asthma?

We recommend one that uses a HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter. The dual action there will remove solid particles and gases that can trigger asthma attacks.

How much does an air filtration system cost?

Annual costs range from between $200 to $900 depending on the make and model according to consumer reports. We can work with you to find the model that makes the most sense for your needs.

Construction Remodeling

Will remodeling make my home more energy-efficient?

Almost always, yes. Unless your home was built this year, it likely doesn’t use the most modern fixtures or water treatments. A well-planned remodel can have you saving money on energy and utility bills for years to come!

What should I be looking for in a remodeling contractor?

You’ll want to be sure they have years of experience with the type of remodeling you want. They should also be able to demonstrate their familiarity with the building codes in your locality, and be very clear and transparent on process and pricing.

What are the best remodeling projects for good return on investment?

According to a 2020 Cost vs. Value report from Remodeling Magazine, a well-respected trade publication, the most efficient construction remodeling projects in terms of ROI were:

• A minor kitchen remodel
• Siding replacement (fiber and vinyl)
• Wooden deck additions

Have more questions? Get in touch today!

Call us at 919-929-0203 or contact us online.