A young neighbourhood getting older
Thornhill Woods streets went up mainly in the early 2000s, with brick two-storeys and townhouses around parks and schools. Many homes have finished basements and some have basement apartments. Supply is copper or PEX, drains ABS. Now that these houses are past twenty years old, the first generation of mechanical parts is at the end of its life.
What we see here
- Original sump pumps failing in spring
- Water heaters past their expected life
- Toilet fill valves and flappers worn out
- Builder-grade faucets leaking at cartridges
- Hose bibs damaged by frost
A good time for a plumbing check
If your house is around twenty years old and nothing has been replaced, it is worth having the water heater, sump pump, main shut-off and toilets looked at together. Planned replacement costs less than emergency calls.
Builders often installed rental water heaters in this era. Check your bill for a rental charge.
Typical services
See sump pump replacement, faucet repair and gas water heater replacement.
Basement apartments and extra fixtures
Some Thornhill Woods homes now have legal second units. Adding a kitchen and bathroom puts more load on drains and the water heater. If hot water runs out with two households sharing one tank, a larger heater or separate supply may be needed. Separate shut-offs make service easier.
Our basement walk-through in Thornhill Woods
- Main shut-off. We find it, turn it, and tell you if the wheel handle or ball valve still seals.
- Water heater. Read the date off the rating plate, look for rust at the fittings and test the relief valve.
- Floor drain and cleanout. Check the trap holds water and the cleanout cap comes off.
- Sump pit. Fill-test the pump and see where the discharge lands outside.
- Exposed supply. Note copper, PEX, poly-B or galvanized, and any green or white crust at the joints.