Andy Baker

You should always hire a professional plumbing service when dealing with either small leaks or massive plumbing issues. Learn the benefits before you DIY!

Did you know the average person uses around 100 gallons of water every single day? The reality is that something’s bound to go wrong eventually with so much water in such constant use.

There are many advantages of hiring a professional plumbing service, such as:

• Expert guidance
• Safety reasons
• Access to proper tools and supplies
• Emergency services
• Affordability

Plumbing services can provide much-needed special assistance by skilled technicians, including diagnosis, inspection, clearing clogged drains, fixing leaking pipes, and general repairs.

If you don’t have any serious problems yet but want to prevent bigger issues down the line, you can take advantage of full-service maintenance solutions to keep everything running smoothly. 

1. Expert Guidance

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a professional plumbing service is having the guidance of experts in the field.

While some people may have a little knowledge of the basics, no amateur can compare to the expertise of an experienced, skilled technician.

There’s no need to waste time trying to fix issues you aren’t sure how to resolve. There are plenty of plumbing technicians who are uniquely trained to fully handle every problem you’re encountering. 

It’s best to know when to leave it to the professionals.

2. Safety

Another great benefit to hiring a plumbing service is knowing that your problem can be safely resolved by a professional. There are real dangers to taking plumbing problems into your own hands if you don’t know what you’re doing, such as:

• Exposure to lead, sulfur dioxide, and other hazardous materials
• Exposure to flammable products
• Biohazard exposure
• Water damage
• Electrical hazards

One wrong move and you can make things even worse.

Why risk destroying your property and endangering yourself when you can hire a professional to safely fix everything? 

3. Tools

Having access to the right tools makes a world of difference.

Many times, plumbing issues can be best resolved with expensive, specialized tools that most people don’t have. Examples of the latest equipment include drain-cleaning machines and specially-designed, high-quality video cameras for close inspections. 

When you hire a professional plumbing service, you are paying for access to some of the best tools in the business.  

4. Emergencies

In an emergency, time is of the essence. 

Flooding, overflowing toilets, burst pipes, discolored water, or strange smells coming from your water can quickly wreak havoc on your property and cause serious health complications. A professional plumbing service has the appropriate labor force and know-how to meet your needs and act fast.

During a plumbing emergency, it’s always best to call a professional. 

5. Affordability

Wasting money on cheap fixes that are only temporary can add up. Even worse, sometimes delaying the problem can exacerbate the damage and increase the price tag.

Many professional plumbing services can offer you excellent financing options. Plumbing services are aimed at providing you with affordable, comprehensive, lasting solutions that can save you money in the long run.

Schedule Your Plumbing Service Today

Whether you have a serious problem or just need some minor maintenance, you can find a plumbing service that has a solution.

If you need assistance, let a family-owned team of professionals provide you with excellent plumbing service to save the day.

Connect with us and let us know how we can assist you.

If you found these tips useful, feel free to explore the rest of our site for more information about all of the services we can provide you.

Are you facing a leakage problem in the kitchen? Or do you need to remodel the bathroom? Get professional plumbing services to quickly fix the problem and have the fastest repair. Usually, it is not possible for a person to fix all the plumbing and heating problems – it requires expert technicians to do the things for you. Racineplumbingchicago offers the quality and fastest fixing solution.

Now, the question is how to find the best plumbing & heating solution to fix things. Here are some tips that will help to pick up the best services to fix the plumbing issues:

Check customer review

First of all, it is essential to check the online customer review. It helps to provide clear insight into the quality of the services. Moreover, you can get a better idea of whether the relevant one is good to pick or not. Almost every company has a website that offers transparent customer reviews – whether positive or negative. So, better to choose the one according to the reviews and rating.

Professional experience

Make sure the plumbing services provider has professional experience of working in the relevant field. Moreover, it is necessary to ask for their expertise and success stories in the relevant field. Only the professional plumber cannot just quickly find the problem but also offer a reliable solution. Furthermore, they consider it best for the new system installation and for the remodeling services as well.

24/7 emergency services

It is necessary to pick the one who offers round-the-clock services. No matter what the time is – if you need an emergency fixing solution then the service provider has to be at your doorstep. So, choose the one who operates with 24/7 emergency services in town. As well as they have to be pro-efficient in the reliable or quality fixing solution.

Cost-effectiveness

No doubt plumbing or heating services can cost a lot. It depends on the nature of the services you are required for the place. Like if you need to install a hot water heater, looking for leakage fixing or renovation regarding kitchen or bathroom fixtures – then choose the one that offers services within budget. You have to ask about the packages and discounts and choose by keeping the cost in
consideration.

Licensing

Do check the registration and licensing before hiring professional plumbing services. Make sure, the plumbing services company has the trained staff, latest techniques, and proper license to offer the heating and plumbing installation, repair, or maintenance services.

It is a critical thing to deal with the hot water heater, burner, and cooling system – so, make sure to get in contact with the professional services provider.

In the market, you can find multiple options related to plumbing services. But choosing the best one is time taking and a difficult job. But the tips may help to locate the most reliable services provider to do the job. Moreover, only a professional will offer a quick and reliable solution to keep you and your place safe for you.

Due to the high number of plumbing-related problems, the plumbing industry continues to offer different types of plumbing services.

This is to guarantee everyone they can cater to every problem that may arise. What are the different types of plumbing services? As of 2018, the top five plumbing services are for drainage, gas fitting, mechanical, and water supply.

What are the different types of plumbing?

1. Drainage Services

The most common plumbing problem that occurs in the drain is clogs. As much as everyone wishes to think that problems occur on drains only, it’s doesn’t. Flooding, recurring clogs, slow-moving and foul odors coming out from the drain are just some of the serious problems that a professional plumber needs to fix.

But you have nothing to worry about because there are professional plumbers that are trained and licensed to do the job. The drainage service’s scope of work is as follows, but not limited to:

• Drain cleaning, maintenance, and repair (residential and commercial)
• Sewer cleaning, maintenance, inspection and testing
• Underground drains clearing and repair
• Installation and removal of sewer treatment systems
• Kitchen, bathroom and basement plumbing
• Catch basin cleaning

2. Water Supply Services

This is the main problem of plumbing. Leakages on slabs, backflows, and blockages are just a few of the worse problems you can possibly encounter. Thankfully, in every problem, there is an effective solution. The solution is covered in the water supply services scope of work.

• Installation, maintenance, repair, inspection and testing of hot/cold water supply (kitchen and bathrooms)
• Installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and testing hot water systems (traditional option and solar)
• Connecting the rainwater tanks for flushing toilets and garden irrigation

3. Gas Plumbing Services

The good advantage of the plumbing field is they aren’t limited to installation, repair, and maintenance of water-related supply lines and pipes. They cover other jobs as well, like gas fitting.

Unfortunately, it is also the one element that can expose everyone to danger (e.g. inhalation of too much carbon monoxide and fire). Unlike with water-related plumbing problems, you can’t postpone the repair schedule of gas-related plumbing no matter how small the problem is.

Call a professional plumber that is certified and licensed for gas plumbing. The scope of work for this service are as follows, but not limited to:

• Installation, maintenance, repair, inspection and testing of barbecue grill, cooktops, hot water heater unit, and ovens
• Installation, inspection, and testing of natural gas fitting and LPG lines
• Installation and maintenance of gas fireplace

4. Mechanical Services

Heat, air ventilation, and cooling are the systems that complete the comfortable setting in every building. To ensure that you will enjoy the benefits they are providing, make sure to have it checked and maintained regularly. The mechanical services scope of work includes, but is not limited to:

• Installation, maintenance, repair, inspection and testing of heating units – ducted, hydronic, swamp coolers, space heater, and split systems
• Installation and fabrication of sheet metal ductwork
• Installation, maintenance, repair, inspection and testing of medical gas equipment for hospitals and clinics purposes

5. Emergency Plumbing Services

Since plumbing problems occur at any time, many aren’t so surprising anymore. Though many are aware of the possibility of plumbing-related emergencies, no one is prepared for the stress it can cause. To ensure you will never face it alone, call for the assistance of a professional plumber.  

The emergency plumbing service scope of work includes inspection, installation, maintenance, repair, and testing of the following:

• All plumbing fixtures
• Sewer and stormwater drains
• Generator
• Skylights and vents in the roof

Plumbers encounter different problems every single day. Some are easy to troubleshoot, but there are some that need major replacement or repair. If you are doubtful of the problem’s complexity level, you can always seek a professional plumber for advice.

General tips on hiring a Plumber.

Below are specific questions and answers but first, it’s best to learn some general tips and suggestions for choosing the ‘right’ plumber for you. This is a significant decision that can bring you joy or heartache. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing a plumber.

• Consider only licensed plumbers, especially if your state requires licensing, as most US states do.
• Evaluate only plumbers who can deliver proof of insurance.
• Ask the plumber how long has he/she been in the plumbing industry. The more experience the plumber or company has, the better.
• After the professional analyzes your plumbing, he/she should be able to give you accurate estimates of what the charge should be for solving the plumbing problem.
• Ask about the guarantees (your satisfaction with his/her work) included in the pricing estimate, including new parts needed.
• Ask for a list of satisfied customer references—and check them out–before you hire the plumbing professional.

Now that you know the general tips, here are five critical questions you should ask every plumber before hiring them:

Are you considering hiring a contractor to solve a plumbing problem? We have the right questions that you need to ask the plumber before you do! The answers will help you choose a plumber who is qualified to solve both minor and major issues. They will also prevent you from hiring the wrong plumber – a mishap that could result in major plumbing issues that could cost you thousands.

1. What is the estimated total cost of fixing your plumbing problem?

Homeowners should be careful, if not skeptical, about quotes they receive over the phone. Good plumbers typically want to see and analyze your piping problem, before giving you an estimate of the total cost of finishing the repairs. Also, experienced professionals include the cost of any new parts needed to complete the repair. You can verify this issue by asking the plumber you’re considering if the price estimate includes both parts and labor costs.

2. Ask who will be doing the work?

If the plumber you speak with uses helpers or subcontractors, ask about the credentials and experience they have. You don’t want to risk having the person who is actually fixing the plumbing have less training or experience than the plumber you initially speak with.

3. Is the Plumber licensed?

If your state requires licensing, be sure your plumber has passed all tests to get a license. You can ask him/her to show evidence of his/her license. Be somewhat wary of newly licensed plumbers without much experience, but they also may provide a better rate than those with more years of experience.

4. Ask, “Are you bonded and insured?”

A “yes” answer should mean the plumber is prepared to give you evidence of his/her bonding and insurance. If asked, tell the plumber you don’t want to be legally responsible for plumber injuries while on the job or in your home fixing a plumbing issue. You have the right, if not the duty, to ask this question.

5. Is the rate hourly or fixed?

Clarify the estimate you receive to avoid unwelcome surprises when the repair job is finished. If the plumber tells you the rate is hourly, ask him/her, in the plumber’s experience, how long it should take to finish the repairs. The more experience the qualified plumber has the better because it will help the plumber give an accurate estimate of the time it typically takes to complete the repair, assuming the pipes are accessible.

Of course, everyone knows how crucial plumbing is in their buildings, and without it, a residential or commercial house is considered incomplete. Unfortunately, only a few people know the basic about plumbing systems. Only a handful of property owners try to understand the different types of plumbing systems. Plumbing as a whole is made up of various subsystems, parts, joints, fixtures, and pipes, which work together to make a system. Here is an overview of top plumbing systems.

Septic and Sewage System

Septic and onsite sewage systems are different. Though their designs may differ, their role is to dispose or remove waste from a building. These wastes can be anything including human activities byproducts that flow through the pipes as gray water or sewage. The most common septic and sewage designs include full sewage systems, wastewater, and onsite wastewater. Experts recommend contacting professional plumbers for repair whenever there is an issue with a septic or sewage system. Plumbers are experienced and know the difference between full sewage, wastewater, and on-site drainage system. Plumbing professionals can detect and fix any issue that can make plumbing systems less efficient. On-site disposal systems use a leaching method to get rid of the effluent. The waste or effluent starts from the kitchen sink, toilet, or other facilities. It then flows through the pipes, septic tank, and then out to the leach drain. Contrary, the wastewater plumbing system is a network that connects commercial and residential homes’ wastewater with the community wastewater facility, which processes affluent. Wastewater sewerage systems work the same as a full sewage system. Septic and sewage systems are designed to remove wastewater from kitchen sinks, bathroom, and toilet from the building. Septic and drainage systems consist of a network of pipes that take fecal matter and human waste as well as laundry and cooking wastewater out of the building. Drainage systems are connected to a series of pipes that allow the entire system to operate at atmospheric pressure and venting of gases. It is the system that ultimately takes all wastewater from a building to the community sewer facility.

Water Supply System

A water supply system includes potable water and the supply of tap to the building. Water supply subsystems provide water to commercial and residential construction for cooking, washing clothes, drinking, bathing, and other functions. Your system should maintain ideal water pressure for it to pump water steadily into the facility. Experts recommend homeowners to contact a professional plumbing service such as Conrad Martens Plumbing when they notice a problem with their water supply system. A home may encounter several plumbing issues with their drainage and water supply systems. Leaking and drinking sinks and faucets are some of the costly plumbing problems that could rack up your monthly water bill. One of the causes of worn washers is a faucet leak, but homeowners can remedy them. Professional help may be required to detect and address a potential leak problem before it worsens. Kitchen sinks and clogged showers are other causes of plumbing problems. It happens when pipe systems and drains are not functioning correctly. Regular use of a water supply system could cause the soap and other materials to build up over time. However, homeowners can use their household products such as vinegar, baking soda, and elbow grease to unclog blocked pipes. However, a clogged pipe would in worst cases require the intervention of a professional plumber. Professional plumbing services can use tools such as pipe and sewer cameras to detect the cause of the blockage.

Venting or Drainage System

Vent and drainage systems are critical in diverting gases and wastewater from both commercial and residential buildings. Wastes produce gases, and letting them get trapped in the pipes could cause a problem to your drainage or venting system. The venting and drainage network is made up of several components, which could include a trap, pump, piping system as well as external and internal venting systems. The role of the venting system is to divert gases produced by wastewater from the building to the outside. Then a stack is used to disperse these gases in a roof. However, there should be enough water in the system for the drainage system to prevent sewer gases from getting back to the house. Of course, waste gases won’t divert out of the drainage system properly when vents are blocked, and that could cause safety and health issues to the occupants. However, a professional plumbing service could help a homeowner address any problem in their vent or drainage systems. Plumbers use different tools to detect and solve any problem with a drainage system. These tools can include pliers, pipe cutters, and cordless impact wrenches. Your plumber can also use highly specialized machines to solve a specific plumbing problem. A plumber can also use smart gadgets such as pipe and sewer cameras for high-quality image display of the duct system, drain, and the pipe.

Plumbers are relying on advanced technologies in sewer line replacement projects. One way to maintain your plumbing system is to ensure a regular checkup by a professional plumbing service. Your drainage and water system could over time experience various plumbing problems including contamination, blockage, clogging, and drainage leaks. However, regular cleanup and inspection of pipes could help detect potential problems and prevent expensive repairs down the road.

Stormwater Drainage System

It is the system that carries rainwater away from the roof to the storage tanks. Stormwater drainage systems in older structures take rain into the septic system but can move water from modern buildings into the community storm sewers. Gutters, pipes, drains, and storage tanks are some of the components of a stormwater drainage system.

Plumbing problems in your Sharpsburg, Maryland, home not only cause inconveniences. They can also have an impact on your family’s health. Some plumbing problems can promote harmful biological growth and spread bacteria and viruses that can lead to a variety of short-term and long-term health problems. Below are three plumbing problems that can raise health concerns.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains can lead to many problems, including unpleasant odors, flooding and property damage. In addition, they can pose significant health risks if you don’t have your clogged drains unclogged by a professional.

The bad smell that comes from blocked drains is likely the result of biological growth spreading through your plumbing system instead of being flushed away. Also, stagnant water in your drains may attract insects and other pests that can transmit diseases to your family members.

Leaky Pipes

It’s important to hire a professional plumber to look for damaged pipes and leaks throughout your home. Pipes that leak constantly can create dank spaces under sinks, beneath flooring and behind walls, where detrimental microorganisms grow and spread quickly. Soon, these microorganisms will circulate in your indoor air. As a result, your family will be more susceptible to allergic reactions and respiratory problems.

Damaged Sewage System

Sewage water contains bacteria, viruses and other contaminants that can contribute to a wide range of health issues. If your septic system isn’t properly maintained, these contaminants may spread to your drinking water. They’re so minuscule that they can pass through water filters. Hepatitis, salmonella and E. coli are contaminants that can pose health risks to your family if you have a damaged septic system.

Consuming or bathing with contaminated water from a poorly maintained or damaged plumbing system can result in health issues such as nausea, intestinal problems and immunity weakness. Also, any surfaces with contaminated water may spread diseases to your family members.

Don’t let these plumbing problems impact your family’s health. Contact Hagerstown Heating & Cooling to schedule a drain unclogging, leak detection or septic system repair service.

While every trade is different, some have different rules and regulations. More often than not, this on a state by state basis. For plumbers across the country, they should do their best to understand their local laws when it comes to licensing.

For plumbing pros in Illinois, you must have a license to do business. Here’s what you need to know about an Illinois plumbing business license.

Are you a plumber looking for more business in your area? Sign up with CraftJack today and start receiving leads from homeowners in your area.

Plumbing Licenses In Illinois

If you’re thinking about becoming a plumbing pro in Illinois, you must have a license to do any work in the state. After all, when you’re dealing with pipes and waste material. There are plenty of hazards that come along with it for both you and the homeowner.

For plumbers first starting out in their careers, an apprenticeship program is a much. For the State of Illinois, you must have at least 2,000 hours of hands-on training and at least 144 hours of classroom training. To begin with these first steps, you must obtain a license for a plumbing apprenticeship. You must also have an experienced and licensed plumber willing to sponsor you as you walk through an apprenticeship program.

Once you have all the necessary requirements, you can start to take the steps for your Illinois plumbing license. Requirements for your license include an exam, application and fee. To take the exam, you must complete an application at least 30 days before you plan to test, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. The application fee is $175. For plumbers registering in the City of Chicago or from out of state, the cost is $225.

Once you’ve passed your exam and have had your application approved, you should receive your license. Plumbers must display their licenses according to the Illinois Plumbing License Law. Plumbing licenses must be renewed annually by April 30 every year following.

Illinois Insurance Requirements

Not only do plumbers in Illinois need a license, but they also must carry insurance to get their license. Illinois requires that plumbers have at least general liability insurance. For plumbing contractors who own their own business, they must also have proof of workers compensation insurance.

Insurance is important regardless of what state you live in. By having insurance, you can rest assured your business will be protected if something were to happen. Additionally, customers are at ease hiring you for the job. To learn more, read A Guide To Insurance For Contractors.

Benefits Of A License

You may see some of this process as tedious, after all, you just want to get to work! But the truth is, getting a license to become a plumber in Illinois helps you provide the best possible service to your customers. Additionally, it’s the law if you plan on doing business in the state.

Carrying a license shows that you’ve taken the steps necessary to do your job well. It also requires you to have the best training to do your job well. Not every state requires plumbing pros to have a license, so if you’re moving to Illinois and don’t have one, make note that you will need one.

Illinois Plumbing Trade Organizations

Once you are a licensed plumbing pro, you might want to connect with other like-minded professionals in your area. Joining a plumbing trade organization can really set you apart from the rest. They offer continuing education, resources and advertising that can truly benefit your business. If you’re a plumbing pro in Illinois, here are a few options for you.

Illinois Plumbing Heating & Cooling Contractors Association

As a nationally recognized organization, the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association provides Illinois contractors with local information as well as representation in Springfield when there are issues that need a voice. They also offer a safety tape library to use for employee viewing and vehicle lettering equipment, free with membership. You must apply online at the Illinois PHCC website to become a member.

Plumbing Contractors Association Midwest

Another regional chapter of a national organization, the Plumbing Contractors Association Midwest focuses on educating pros as well as their customers, representing their plumbing pros with new legislative issues and assisting with license renewals. They’re also working to promote the industry to the next generation of skilled workers.

At this time, membership is free through May 31, 2018. You must apply online to start your member benefits.

Conclusion

If you’re a plumbing contractor in Illinois, you must have a license to work in the state. If you’re moving to the state or considering beginning a career as a plumbing pro, you’ll need to complete the required application process to get your licensure. Don’t forget, you must renew your plumbing license annually.

It’s something you need to know before you need to make the call. A burst pipe under the sink doesn’t leave much time for deciding on who might be the best. If you’re planning on remodeling the bathroom, you want someone who knows their way around faucets, fixtures, and pipes.

When you need to find a plumber in your area, where do you start? What should you look for?

We help residents deal with water damage every day, so we see the difference it makes when you know who to call before a plumbing repair emergency. That same professional is your go-to tech for everything related to your home’s plumbing system. How do you find the best plumber in your area?

10 WAYS TO FIND THE BEST PLUMBERS IN CHICAGO

When customers ask us how to find a local plumber, we’re happy to share tips that can make the process a little easier. We’ve put together this list of pointers as a guide to locating the best local pros for your home or business.

1. SOMETIMES, OLDER IS BETTER

We applaud the shop that just opened its doors, but we’re more likely to recommend a company that’s been around for years. Santucci Plumbing in Northbrook is a great example of why good plumbers stay in business. Four generations and 35 years add up to experience you want when you need a plumber.

2. REAL PROS SHOW THEIR CREDENTIALS

Whether you stop by headquarters or greet the plumber at your doorstep, professionals always have their paperwork in order. Ask about liability insurance and license compliance. Established plumbing companies usually carry workman’s comp too. If a business won’t share this kind of information, be very cautious.

3. YOU CAN FIND OUT A LOT ONLINE

From Yelp to Home Advisor, online customer review sites help weed out the bad and spotlight the good. Take a look at a potential hire’s website. See how the company interacts with people on its Facebook page or Twitter feed. This kind of online detective work gives you a good feel for a plumber’s attitude towards customer service.

4. SIZE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Before you hire the biggest business on the block, compare their rates with other plumbers. A smaller shop can quote lower rates, but it might not offer extras like new plumbing installation, hydro jetting or pipe lining. A mid-sized company like Wilmette’s Lucke Plumbing is usually a budget-friendly choice offering a good range of services.

5. ASK OTHER TRADES FOR RECOMMENDATIONS

Local plumbers, electricians and HVAC technicians often know each other, and many of them work through the same general contractors. If you have a favorite handyman or trusted tech, ask him or her about recommendations for reliable plumbers who operate in your neighborhood. This network can be a great source for solid references.

6. KNOW WHAT YOU NEED

Do you need a plumber to fix a leaky pipe or replace a bad sewer line? Not all plumbing businesses handle big jobs, so be clear about what you expect. Look for a company like Reliance Plumbing with capabilities for handling all kinds of projects. They take care of residential and commercial properties in Skokie and the surrounding areas.

7. GET IT IN WRITING

We don’t give estimates for water damage restoration services over the phone. It’s very hard to accurately size up large projects without an on-site inspection. Think twice before hiring a plumber who gives you a quote with a phone call. Be cautious of handshake agreements. If it’s more than a quick repair job, get all the figures down on paper.

8. COMPARE QUOTES AND ASK QUESTIONS

Unless you’re facing a plumbing emergency, get bids from at least three different companies. Compare the numbers, but don’t assume the lower quote is a bargain. The plumber with a high estimate might be using better materials that last longer. Ask why the quote is higher, and reverse that strategy when you talk to the low bidder.

9. LOOK FOR HONESTY ABOUT HOURLY RATES

Small plumbing repair jobs are often priced by the hour based on an estimate of the time involved. Ask about exactly when hourly charges begin. Some plumbers start the clock when they leave their offices, so you could be paying for travel time that increases final costs.

10. EXPECT EMERGENCY CAPABILITIES

You want to connect with a plumber who takes care of routine repairs and emergency situations. Chicago’s Emergency Good Guys earn their name with 24/7 service that covers it all from burst pipes to foundation leaks. That kind of response makes a big difference in minimizing water damage to your property.

Once a stronghold of the middle class, labor unions have seen a steady decline in membership, particularly in the private sector — including in the construction industry.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, total union membership in 2015 was approximately 40 percent less than what it was in 1983, and the percentage of construction workers who are union members dropped 4 percent to 13.2 percent between 2002 and 2015.

Why have unions seen a downturn in recent years? And what factors should commercial plumbing contractors consider when deciding between union and nonunion labor?

LOOKING AT THE EXPENSE

The primary impetus behind this shift is the expense. Using union versus nonunion labor can mean a 20 percent reduction in profits, according to David MacPherson, professor of economics at Trinity University in San Antonio. “I cannot think of a single economic study that has not found that unions lower profits,” he says. “So unless union workers are at least 20 percent more productive, they’re going to hurt profits.”

Furthermore, the additional cost of using union labor can be as much as 33 percent but normally falls between 20 and 25 percent, notes Thomas Baylis, partner at the law firm Cullen and Dykman in New York, a market that still has a strong union presence. Baylis notes that virtually all the large projects like airport expansions, skyscrapers, wastewater treatment plants, and ground-up schools are still union in New York and certain other markets like Boston and Chicago. But he added that many markets, particularly smaller cities and more rural areas, have little or no union presence.Related: How to Keep Your Crew Fresh and Focused

A big part of why union wages are so high rests with the fringe benefits package that can be as expensive as the wage rate itself. While the package is lofty for members, it makes it virtually impossible to be competitive with such rates when competing against nonunion contractors.

DIFFERENT OPPORTUNITIES

The advantage of being a union plumbing contractor is it opens the door to take on projects that only other union contractors have access to. “To really grow and get involved with big projects in New York, you have to be a signatory (union) contractor,” says Mike Morena, director of purchasing at Cardoza Plumbing, a Westbury, New York-based union plumbing contractor.

The unions and unionized employers argue that union laborers are more skilled and safer than nonunion laborers and that it is far easier to mobilize large numbers of workers when they are organized.

Most plumbers unions have an apprentice program with a strong emphasis on training. The idea is for contractors to invest in individuals by having them partake in several years of trade-specific and safety training. Upon graduating from an apprentice program, which typically takes 4-5 years, the individual becomes a journeyman, who is paid significantly more than an apprentice. If, however, there’s a lull in work and the contractor must lay some labor off, that multiyear investment could be for naught if the worker accepts a position with a different contractor.

Collective bargaining agreements also spell out very specific guidelines in terms of what members can and cannot undertake. As Larry Haney, vice president at R.E. Robertson Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning in Annapolis, Maryland, notes, work ebbs and flows, and employee flexibility can mean the difference between holding on to someone and laying them off. “We have a very good core of professionals, and we do what we can to keep that intact,” Haney says. “That may mean a plumber helps out on a large AC project, or an HVAC guy may need to take on the role of delivery man for a day. When you’re a small business everyone needs to be mobile and wear multiple hats, so working within a defined set of rules simply wouldn’t work for a business like ours.”Related: Recognizing the Signs of Employee Burnout

Union contractors also have other commitments that are required under the agreements, like filing certified payrolls on a weekly basis.

THE LABOR POOL

A key advantage to being a union contractor is the access to a large pool of labor. “If we get real busy and need to add some plumbers to cover all the work, all we need to do is pick up the phone and call the (union) hall,” Morena says. “If we’re not happy with a particular person, they can be easily replaced, and if things slow up, we have the ability to lay off some people.”

But all that jockeying of labor also requires tight management on the part of the contractor. Morena acknowledges that good foremen are necessary to ensure everyone remains productive on job sites.

In major urban areas, most union plumbing contractors are either large organizations that are well capitalized and have the horsepower to take on projects of all sizes or are niche contractors that focus on specific types of work that tends to be union, like hospital renovations or sewage projects. Union contractors generally agree that it’s important to carve out a well-crafted business plan before even considering becoming a signatory contractor.

“Signing a collective bargaining agreement is a major commitment,” Baylis says. “If you’re in a union-heavy market, can foster the right relationships, and know how to navigate the labor and paperwork, it can mean access to work with less competition,” he says.

The plumbing system of your home plays an important role in ensuring that you will enjoy the highest level of safety and convenience while using your kitchen and bathroom as the water will run smoothly inside and outside your property. but if there are any issues with this system, you should never attempt to do the repairs work yourself but hire professional plumbers Brandenton for helping you deal with this situation. For this, you will need to search for the most reliable and reputable plumbing company that offers the best plumbers for completing the work in a cost-effective manner. You should never compromise on the quality of plumbers that you hire for any plumbing job because it might cause a lot of damages to your property eventually leading to long-term loss. Therefore, it is important that you do proper research while hiring a plumber so that you can rest assured that you have hired someone who is skilled and qualified for this task.

There are many benefits of hiring professional plumbers Brandenton and the most important benefit is that you will have someone who has the skill and expertise for undertaking a wide variety of plumbing tasks. Moreover, you will get the best value for your money as these professionals will make use of the latest technology tools and equipment for completing the plumbing task in the best possible manner. Regardless of the severity of the plumbing issues, you should never attempt doing the repairs yourself because it might lead to damages to the pipes or any plumbing equipment. They have experience in handling all varieties of plumbing jobs so that you will get complete peace of mind that you don’t have to worry about anything. Moreover, you will not have to spend money on renting or buying tools for completing the plumbing repairs because these professionals are well equipped with the best tools and equipment. The training and knowledge of the professional plumbers make them the best person for resolving all kinds of plumbing issues within a short span of time so that any kind of inconvenience will be minimized. Thus, it is important that you call a plumber for assistance for any kind of plumbing problem so that it will not become a serious issue and you will be able to save a considerable amount of money. For this, you will need to look for the best plumbing company that has the best team of experts who will complete this plumbing task efficiently according to your requirements. These experts will be successful in tackling all kinds of work so that you will enjoy a smooth functioning system at your home and you will also get the best quality services from a reliable plumbing company.

Hiring plumbers in Bradenton means that you will have the assistance and guidance of experts who will work with the toughest of conditions which include the underground water supply lines or pipes. They have expertise in dealing with the pipes and drainage systems that are located behind the walls and underground so that the reason for the problem can be identified at the earliest. This will enable the plumbers to carry on the repairs and replacement work efficiently so that it does not lead to disasters inside your property. Hence the hiring of professional plumbers will help you to avoid the potential threats that might arise when you are ignorant of the plumbing issue or try to treat the issue yourself. These professionals will also be able to detect any gas leakage in the pipeline, connecting joints or connectors so that it does not cause any fire-related issues. They have specialized tools and equipment that are capable of undertaking this task in the best possible manner so that the issue can be fixed before it turns into potential threats. There are some plumbing problems that might be more serious than you can ever imagine and this is the reason why you need to hire someone who has the skills and knowledge for identifying and fixing the source of plumbing problems. You will get the highest quality services at the most affordable prices from a professional plumber who will fix the problem quickly before it turns into a major issue.