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Frequently Asked Questions

Get Answers to Common Plumbing Questions

Common Questions About Our Services

Find answers to frequently asked questions about plumbing, gas line, sewer, and water line services. Can't find what you're looking for? Give us a call at 412-728-1561.

General Questions

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes, DeMonte Contracting is fully licensed and insured for all plumbing, gas line, sewer, and water line services. We maintain all required certifications including DOT certification for gas line work and OSHA certification for safety compliance.

What areas do you serve?

We provide services throughout Allegheny County, Westmoreland County, and Butler County in Western Pennsylvania. This includes Pittsburgh, Butler, Greensburg, and all surrounding communities.

Do you offer emergency services?

Yes! We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing service for urgent issues like burst pipes, gas leaks, sewer backups, and other plumbing emergencies. Call our emergency line at 412-275-5702 for immediate assistance.

How much do your services cost?

We provide upfront pricing before starting any work. The cost varies depending on the specific service needed. Contact us for a free estimate on your project.

Plumbing Services

How long does a water heater last?

Traditional tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years, while tankless water heaters can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. If your water heater is approaching the end of its lifespan or showing signs of failure, we can help you choose and install a replacement.

What causes low water pressure?

Low water pressure can be caused by several issues including corroded pipes, leaks in your water line, undersized pipes, municipal supply issues, or problems with your pressure regulator. We can diagnose the cause and recommend the best solution.

How often should I have my drains cleaned?

For preventive maintenance, we recommend professional drain cleaning every 1-2 years. Commercial properties or homes with frequent issues may benefit from more frequent service.

Gas Line Services

What should I do if I smell gas?

If you smell gas: (1) Evacuate everyone from the building immediately, (2) Don't use phones, lights, or any electrical devices, (3) Once safely outside, call the gas company and call us at 412-275-5702 for emergency service. Never ignore a gas smell!

Can you install gas lines for outdoor kitchens?

Yes! We install gas lines for outdoor kitchens, grills, fire pits, and other outdoor gas appliances. All installations are properly sized, tested, and inspected to ensure safe operation.

How do I know if my gas line needs replacement?

Signs you may need gas line replacement include: corroded or rust-colored pipes, smell of gas, hissing sounds near gas lines, older pipes (especially black iron), or if you're adding new gas appliances that require larger capacity.

Sewer & Drain Services

What is video camera inspection?

Video camera inspection involves inserting a high-definition camera into your sewer or drain lines to visually inspect the interior. This allows us to accurately diagnose problems like blockages, tree roots, cracks, or collapsed pipes without guessing or unnecessary digging.

What is hydro-jetting?

Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water (up to 4000 PSI) to thoroughly clean drain and sewer lines. It removes grease, scale, roots, and buildup more effectively than traditional snaking, leaving your pipes clean and flowing freely.

Do tree roots really damage sewer lines?

Yes, tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line problems. Roots seek out moisture and can penetrate even small cracks in pipes, eventually causing major blockages or breaks. We can remove roots and recommend solutions to prevent future intrusion.

What is trenchless sewer repair?

Trenchless sewer repair uses modern technology to repair or replace sewer lines with minimal digging. Methods include pipe lining (creating a new pipe inside the old one) and pipe bursting (replacing the old pipe). Trenchless methods save time, reduce property damage, and often cost less overall.

Water Line Services

How do I know if I have a water line leak?

Signs of a water line leak include: unexplained increases in water bills, wet spots in your yard, loss of water pressure, sound of running water when nothing is on, foundation cracks, or discolored water. We use advanced leak detection technology to pinpoint leaks without extensive digging.

What causes frozen pipes?

Pipes freeze when temperatures drop below 32°F and pipes aren't adequately protected. Common problem areas include exposed pipes in crawl spaces, pipes against exterior walls, and outdoor faucets. We offer freeze prevention services and emergency thawing.

When should I replace my water line?

Consider water line replacement if you have: frequent leaks, corroded pipes, low water pressure throughout the home, discolored water, old galvanized or polybutylene pipes, or if you're experiencing ongoing problems despite repairs.

Excavation Services

What types of excavation services do you provide?

DeMonte Contracting provides comprehensive excavation services including utility line excavation for water, sewer, and gas lines; trenching for new installations; site preparation for construction; residential and commercial excavation projects; and emergency excavation for utility line failures.

How do you protect my property during excavation?

We use modern equipment including compact excavators for tight spaces, carefully mark and protect landscaping, remove and save topsoil for restoration, use proper shoring and safety barriers, coordinate utility locates through PA One Call, and perform professional restoration including grading and seeding after work is complete.

Do you handle permits and utility locates?

Yes, we handle all aspects of the excavation process including obtaining necessary permits from local municipalities, coordinating with PA One Call for utility locates, scheduling required inspections, and ensuring all work meets code requirements. We manage these details so you don't have to.

How long does a typical excavation project take?

Project duration varies based on scope and conditions. A simple utility line excavation may take 1-2 days, while larger projects like complete site preparation may take a week or more. We provide realistic timelines during our initial consultation and keep you informed throughout the project.

Utility Installation

What utility systems do you install?

We install complete utility systems including water service lines from the main to your property, sewer laterals connecting to municipal sewers, natural gas service lines and interior piping, drainage systems including French drains and storm water management, and all required connections, meters, and fixtures.

Do you work with new construction?

Yes, DeMonte Contracting specializes in utility installation for new construction projects. We coordinate with builders, municipalities, and utility companies to install all underground utilities properly before construction begins. We handle water service, sewer lateral, gas lines, and drainage systems for new homes and commercial buildings.

Can you upgrade existing utility systems?

Absolutely. We frequently upgrade aging utility systems with modern materials. Common upgrades include replacing old galvanized water lines with copper or HDPE, replacing clay sewer pipes with PVC, upgrading undersized gas lines, and adding drainage systems for wet basements. All upgrades are performed to current code requirements.

How do you ensure proper installation?

Quality installation is our priority. We use code-approved materials, install at proper depths below the frost line, maintain correct slopes for gravity flow, perform pressure testing before backfilling, coordinate required inspections with local authorities, and follow all manufacturer and code requirements for long-lasting, reliable utility systems.

Backflow Prevention

What is a backflow preventer and do I need one?

A backflow preventer is a safety device that prevents contaminated water from flowing backward into your clean water supply. You typically need one if you have an irrigation system, boiler, pool, commercial kitchen, or any situation where there's potential for contamination to enter your water supply. Check with your water authority for specific requirements.

How often does my backflow preventer need testing?

Most water authorities require annual backflow preventer testing by a certified tester. This testing ensures your device is functioning properly and protecting your water supply. We provide annual testing services, complete required documentation, and file reports with your water authority to keep you in compliance.

What happens if my backflow preventer fails testing?

If your device fails testing, we identify the problem and make necessary repairs. Common issues include worn check valves, faulty relief valves, or debris in the system. We stock common replacement parts and can often complete repairs the same day, retest, and get you back in compliance quickly.

Are your technicians certified for backflow testing?

Yes, our technicians hold current backflow prevention certification and are qualified to test and certify backflow prevention devices. We stay updated on testing procedures and local requirements to ensure your device meets all applicable standards and your property remains in compliance.

Still Have Questions?

Our friendly team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your plumbing needs.