Gurgle, Gurgle


I have a toilet on the first floor of my home that from time to time does not flush well. When it fails to do so, the water swirls and builds up but drains very slowly. As well, I hear this toilet gurgle when I drain the upstairs tub and or drain the kitchen sink. I had a person come and snake my toilet, but no fix was to be found. Could this be a result of a bad vent line, blocked or crushed main line going out to the street. Any insights and or suggestions would be helpful.
TIA

Categories: Plumbing
By brownman | 05/08/2009 9:49 AM | Comment

Bathroom Reno: Reality Check


A recent leak from the shower located on the 2nd floor of my wood frame Victorian is forcing me to face the reality of a full gut bathroom renovation (trust me it needs it). My question is, can this be done with a budget of $15k using a proper Architect, filing with the city and working with a honest/responsible contractor? If so, do any of you have any suggestions or recommendations for such a person who is proven and professional? My poor house has suffered so much from the hands of previous owners who would of done more by doing nothing. I would like to begin this project as soon as respectfully possible.

TIA

Categories: Renovation
By brownman | 02/27/2009 12:38 PM | Comment

Electrical Conundrum


I have a circuit panel rated for 100 amps and if I would like to add several more breakers that will exceed that amount, what is the best course of action and what would you think that will cost for a pro to do it?

Categories: Renovation
By brownman | 02/10/2009 9:05 PM | Comment

NEC, Right or Wrong


I opened up a wall that needs repair and I’ve come to find that the previous owner had used Romex instead of BX to wire a couple of electrical outlets. Does anyone know if the use of romex is code in an old wood frame house or should I replace it all with BX?
TIA

Categories: Restoration
By brownman | 02/03/2009 3:14 PM | Comment

Radiator Disharmony


A couple questions for Master Plumber and any one else. I have several radiators that emit an “shhhhhh” sound, like it’s telling me softly to be quiet. Is that normal or do you think I need to replace the air valves? And last, I have a radiator on the third floor that has a small leak from one of the section joints, along with a gurgle sound that is transmitted through the riser that runs through our bedroom, any thoughts on what I should do to get some peace at night? TIA

By brownman | 01/30/2009 6:06 AM | Comment

Oil tank


I have an oil tank in the basement, that is no longer being used since the house was converted to gas, does anyone have any suggestions for removal or insight in getting rid of one? TIA

Categories: Renovation
By brownman | 01/17/2009 4:36 PM | Comment

Abestos Removal


I have abestos on my boiler pipes in my basement, can anyone recommend a good licensed abestos removal company.

Categories: Renovation
By brownman | 01/16/2009 9:54 AM | Comment