Tag: plumbing repair

Plumber Roles

Larissa Kirby Plumbing , , , , , , , , ,

Plumber Lawrenceville GA installs, repairs, and maintains plumbing systems. These systems include pipes, fixtures, and appliances like sinks, toilets, showers, and water heaters. Plumbers ensure that these systems provide safe, clean water and efficient drainage.

This career involves working on construction projects, interpreting blueprints and codes, and meeting with customers to discuss their plumbing needs. Some plumbers are also on-call for emergency services.

plumbing

Whether working at home or at a job site, plumbers work to install piping systems that deliver water and gas. They may also remove old or damaged pipes and fixtures and perform routine maintenance. For new construction, a plumber reads blueprints to determine where the pipe and fixture must go while adhering to building codes and regulations. A plumber can do this on his own or with help from a team of construction tradespeople, including carpenters and electricians.

Plumbing can be a physically demanding job, especially when working in cramped spaces and lifting heavy objects. However, most plumbers report high levels of job satisfaction due to the independence and flexibility of the profession. Many plumbers are self-employed, which allows them to set their own hours and choose which projects they want to take on. This can lead to higher earnings than employment as an employee of a large corporation or organization.

A plumbing professional must have a strong knowledge of math and problem-solving to properly assess and complete installation projects. Applicants typically undergo years of training as an apprentice before being granted their license. They must pass an exam to demonstrate their mastery of the skills of the trade. Plumbers often work with chemicals, sewage, and other hazardous materials, so they must take extra precautions to protect themselves.

During the rough-in stage of construction, a plumber measures and marks the location of all pipelines, including septic tanks and sewer lines. The plumber then cuts holes in the floors, walls, and ceiling to hang and attach pipes using power tools and soldering equipment. The plumber then tests the pipes for leaks and proper flow while also ensuring that the septic tank is the correct size. Once the plumbing is finished, a plumber covers the area with plastic sheeting to keep it clean and free of debris while the rest of the house is being constructed.

One of the most common repairs that plumbers make is fixing leaky pipes. Homeowners can often fix small leaks with repair sleeve or pipe tape, but plumbers are needed to repair large sections of damaged pipes and replace whole pipes altogether. Plumbers are able to do this because they have the tools, training, and experience necessary to perform the job correctly. In addition, plumbers understand how to prevent future leaks from occurring by making the proper adjustments.

Leaks are a serious problem that can cause water damage to the structure of your house and lead to expensive repairs down the road. To ensure that you are getting the most out of your home’s plumbing system, it is important to have any leaks fixed as soon as possible. This will help to lower your utility bills, avoid costly repairs and ensure that your home is safe and sound.

When a plumber arrives at your home, they will shut off the water so that they can work safely. They will then take a look at the damaged area and assess what the best course of action is for the repairs. Plumbers typically use a special camera to inspect the pipes, which allows them to see any problems that may be hard to detect with the naked eye. This camera also helps to show the plumber exactly where the leak is coming from so that they can repair it as efficiently as possible.

Before attempting any repairs, plumbers will usually remove any items in the vicinity of the leaky pipe. This is to avoid any further damage and to allow the plumber to access the pipe more easily. It is also crucial to dry the area around the pipe before trying any temporary fixes.

While the most common issue that plumbers deal with is repairing leaky pipes, they also work on clogged drains and poor water quality issues. Clogged drains are often the result of hair, food scraps and paper products being sent down the drain. These clogs can be difficult for homeowners to remove on their own, so it is always a good idea to call a professional.

Plumbers maintain and repair the systems that deliver water, gas, heat, and waste in residential and commercial buildings. Their duties include interpreting blueprints and plans, installing and connecting pipes, fixtures, and appliances, diagnosing problems, and testing for leaks and other issues. They use hand and power tools, soldering equipment, and pipe cutters to perform their job. Plumbers also must have strong knowledge of hydraulic systems and plumbing codes, and be able to adapt to changing technology and safety protocols.

The work environment for plumbers can vary depending on the type of building. In residential settings, plumbers install and repair pipes for toilets, bathtubs, showers, sinks, garbage disposals, and water heaters. They may also connect sewage systems to plumbing fixtures and drains. Plumbers working in large buildings, such as hospitals, schools, and office buildings, are more likely to work on larger-scale industrial plumbing equipment and complex systems that serve many occupants simultaneously.

Plumbers must be able to collaborate with other professionals in the construction of new buildings and ensure that plumbing is seamlessly integrated into the overall structure. They may also be on-call 24/7 to respond to emergency situations, such as burst pipes or clogged drains. Plumbers must be comfortable with physical labor, including climbing and working in small spaces.

To become a plumber, you typically need at least a high school diploma and some vocational training or on-the-job experience. Some trade schools offer certificate programs in plumbing, while others offer apprenticeships that last up to five years. During an apprenticeship, you learn the skills necessary to perform plumbing tasks under the supervision of a master plumber. After completing the apprenticeship, you must pass an exam to earn your license to practice as a plumber. Many plumbers also choose to become self-employed, which allows them more control over their work schedule and choice of projects. Self-employed plumbers usually need to carry liability insurance and must be familiar with local regulations and building codes. They must be able to estimate project costs and communicate effectively with customers.

Plumbing is a service industry, and plumbers often work directly with customers to address their concerns and answer their questions. They may also provide recommendations on plumbing solutions and cost estimates for their services. Customer service skills are important for plumbers to have, as they often interact with customers in stressful situations when they are experiencing problems with their home’s plumbing.

Plumbers install piping and fixtures for residential and commercial buildings. They follow blueprints and building codes to ensure that plumbing systems are installed correctly. This can include laying pipes, connecting appliances such as sinks and toilets, and installing water heaters. Plumbers may also be responsible for rerouting or repairing existing piping.

Plumbers maintain plumbing systems by repairing leaks and clogs. They use specialized tools to clear drains and inspect pipes for damage. They also troubleshoot issues such as low water pressure and temperature fluctuations. Plumbers are sometimes required to replace entire sections of piping, depending on the severity of the problem.

The work of a plumber is often physically demanding, as they may need to crawl through tight spaces or maneuver around furniture to access piping underneath floors and behind walls. They are also required to lift heavy equipment and tools. A career as a plumber can be very rewarding, as it allows for a good work-life balance and provides opportunities for advancement. The average American works well into their 60s, so a satisfying job is important for overall happiness.

What Causes Clogged Drains and What You Can Do About Them

Zain Haney Plumbing , , , , ,

Clogged drains are not only a nuisance, but they can cause damage to your pipes and cause costly wastewater backup. Ask On Point Plumbing & Heating what causes blocked drains and what you can do about them.

The most common reasons for clogged drains are hair in bathtubs and showers, food waste in sinks, “flushable” wipes, paper towels, toilet tampons, and mineral buildup from hard water that prevents drain lines from flowing properly. 

plumbing

FOGs, or fats, oils, and grease, are the main culprits of clogged drains. These villains can cause serious sewer blockages if they are improperly disposed of. Grease is a thick substance that can clog pipes if improperly washed away. When you pour cooking grease down the drain, it may liquefy and flow through the pipes. However, once it cools, it can solidify on the walls of the pipes. This can result in a large and hard-to-remove clog.

Many people will try to dissolve the clump of grease by pouring hot water down the drain. This may sometimes work, but there are more permanent solutions. It is also not safe for the pipes. Pouring boiling water down the drain can push the grease farther into the pipe, resulting in even bigger problems.

The best way to deal with grease clogs is to use commercial products specifically designed for this purpose. These products can be found at most hardware and grocery stores. You can also find these products online. There are also several home remedies that you can use to help with the problem. These include using Vinegar and baking soda.

Pouring a small amount of baking soda and Vinegar down the drain can produce a fizzing reaction that breaks up and liquefies grease. Baking soda is an excellent abrasive that can help break down clogs and remove them from the pipes.

Another great way to remove grease is using a caustic cleaner containing sodium hydroxide (NaOH). This can be purchased at most hardware and grocery stores. There are better solutions for small clogs, but they can be used on larger ones.

Another common cause of clogged sinks is using soaps that contain animal or vegetable fats. It is recommended to switch to soaps that are fat-free. There are several different types of fat-free soaps available. Call a professional plumber for assistance if you are dealing with a severe grease clog.

Many people must refrain from throwing food scraps and leftovers into their kitchen drains, which can contribute to clogged pipes. Grease, oils, and fats are liquid when poured down the drain, but they solidify as they cool, resulting in greasy clogs that can be difficult to remove without professional help. Fibrous foods like eggshells, coffee grounds, and onion skins can also clog your pipes because they don’t dissolve easily in water.

Flour is another common household food item that can cause a drain clog. When mixed with water, flour forms a glue-like substance that can clog your pipes. To avoid this, brush your remaining flour into the trash rather than rinsing it down the drain.

Similarly, pasta and rice can clog your pipes because they absorb water, causing them to swell up and block the pipe. These foods can also contribute to clogs in your garbage disposal unit, so throwing small amounts into the drain is best.

One of the most overlooked causes of clogged drains is hair, which can quickly build up and become a major problem. Both human and pet hair can accumulate in your pipes and lead to a clogged drain, especially when it mixes with grease and soap residue.

In addition to hair, other food waste can also clog your drains. Coffee grounds and eggshells are non-biodegradable and can clog your pipes if disposed of improperly. It’s important to regularly clean your drains with homemade solutions or commercial products to prevent these substances from building up and clogging your drains.

In addition to preventing drain clogs, regular cleaning can help maintain the efficiency and longevity of your plumbing system. Pouring baking soda and Vinegar down your drains can create a chemical reaction that will dissolve most clogs, while running hot water afterward can help move the clog away from your pipes. However, if you are experiencing a serious clog, contacting a plumber for professional assistance is best. They can inspect your pipes and recommend the right solution for your home.

Hair is a leading cause of clogged drains, especially in bathrooms and bathtubs. We lose anywhere from 50 to 100 hairs a day, and those little strands end up in the drains, where they can mix with other debris to create a solid clog. If a hair clog isn’t addressed quickly, it can lead to a slow-draining shower or sink or a complete blockage.

Fortunately, it’s easy to clear hair clogs with the right technique. One option is to use a hook to fish the clump of hair out of the drain. This can be as simple as fashioning a hook out of a wire or a coat hanger, but you can also find special tools designed specifically for this purpose. Another option is using a chemical drain cleaner labeled safe for hair clogs. Follow the instructions on the bottle to apply the chemical safely and effectively.

Another effective way to remove hair from the drain is to brush it before stepping into the shower or tub. This can help prevent many tangled masses of hair from easily getting into your drains. You can also install a shower drain cover, which is relatively inexpensive and sits on top of your drain to catch hair before it goes down. These are available at most home improvement stores.

Plumbing pipes are a challenging system to keep in working order. Much of the sewer and house drains are underground or hidden from view, making it easier to spot problems once they’re well established. Keeping an eye out for warning signs of drain issues may help you nip problems in the bud before they become serious and costly.

Paper products are one of the biggest contributors to clogged toilets. While the only thing that should ever go down a toilet is toilet paper, many household and business items can end up in drains if you must be careful. Items like facial tissues, sales receipts, q-tips, and wipes (even those that claim to be flushable) can all cause bathroom blockages. They’re also not good for the environment or your pipes.

If you use these products regularly, consider investing in a disposal unit. They’ll save you time and money in the long run.

Other common causes of clogged drains include improper disposal of food particles, soap scum, foreign objects, and mineral buildup in areas with hard water.

Many of these problems can be resolved with a simple plunger or a snake, but in some cases, it’s necessary to call a plumber to remove a blocked pipe or replace a broken pipe. It’s also wise to avoid do-it-yourself drain cleaners, like vinegar and baking soda, as they can sometimes worsen a blockage.

A Guide to Traditional Plumbing

Bronwyn Carroll Plumbing , , , ,

We take plumbing for granted, but it’s been an important part of civilization for centuries. It was responsible for public baths, fountains, and sewage removal.

Traditional plumbing can also be messy, directly contacting plumbers with dirt and sewage. Plunger Plumber is quicker and more hygienic.

plumber

If you’re building a new home or remodeling an existing one, plumbing manifolds are an important part of your overall system design. These plumbing components act as crucial control mechanisms for hot and cold water circulation. They can be made of conventional copper, brass, bronze, or more technologically advanced materials such as PEX/cross-linked polyethylene. Regardless of the type of material used, they offer clear utility for any homeowner.

The plumbing manifold is an intersection point for all the pipes in your home or commercial facility. Cold and hot water enters the manifold via 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch branch lines that connect to various fixtures throughout your house. These tubing connections are also fitted with valves that allow you to shut off the water supply to specific institutions in case of a problem.

In traditional plumbing systems, a main artery — usually a large-diameter copper pipe — takes water to every room or fixture in your home before it branches off again to smaller, individual branches. The result could be more efficient energy and water use. Plumbing manifolds provide a more efficient alternative, allowing each fixture to get its dedicated supply of hot or cold water without the larger-diameter, long-run pipe requirements of traditional plumbing.

Depending on the type of system you have, your plumbing manifold may be outfitted with copper, PVC, or even PEX tubing. While these are all reliable, high-quality materials, PEX offers a few additional benefits that can make it the better choice for your manifold systems. For example, modern PEX plumbing systems feature safeguards that reduce the likelihood of pressure drop and require less components. They also resist freezing during the winter.

In addition to the obvious convenience of being able to turn off water to individual appliances, manifolds help plumbers by reducing the number of joints in the system. This is one of the most common places for leaks to occur. A single joint in a copper or PVC line can be difficult to repair and is vulnerable to corrosion over time. This is why fewer joints mean a more reliable plumbing system.

Like smartphones, TVs, watches and thermostats, home plumbing fixtures are now becoming smart. From water filtration systems to digital faucets, these smart technologies allow homeowners and property managers to connect their plumbing to the internet for better control and more efficiency. However, it’s important to choose the right system and install it properly for maximum benefits.

Incorporating smart technology into a plumbing system can help prevent expensive repairs due to water leaks and conserve resources in the process. These systems are designed to detect early warning signs of water leaks, alert users to high-usage habits, and provide data on water usage.

These devices can be installed in residential or commercial buildings to monitor and manage water consumption. They can be connected to a building’s plumbing infrastructure through sensors that are able to communicate with each other to identify any anomalies, such as a water leak or abnormal water usage. The data is transmitted to a central server, where it can be analyzed and delivered as real-time insights to the user. This allows plumbers and facility managers to predict maintenance needs, respond faster, save energy and water and improve occupants’ comfort and quality of life.

Among the most popular smart plumbing products are water filtration and monitoring systems, smart toilets, and connected showers. These technologies allow users to customize their settings, such as temperature and pressure, for a more personalized experience. Smart toilets can also be programmed to automatically flush after a certain amount of time, saving both water and money.

A key benefit of these products is that they can be controlled remotely through a smartphone application. Users can adjust the settings of their toilet, shower, or sink and even set schedules for appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers. They can also monitor their water usage and see how much they are using each month, allowing them to cut back on waste.

If you’re interested in integrating smart technology into your plumbing system, contact our licensed Cincinnati plumbers for more information on the best products to fit your home or business. We can help you find the perfect solutions that will keep you safe and comfortable while improving your home’s energy efficiency.

Green plumbing is the practice of installing eco-friendly systems in place of old and wasteful ones. The main allure of this type of system is its lowered impact on the environment, but it also saves you money on energy and water bills. It includes modifications such as low-flow toilets, high-pressure showerheads, usage meters and more. A more comprehensive green plumbing solution involves installing solar hot water systems, rainwater tanks and even tankless water heaters. These are more expensive upfront, but they pay for themselves in just a couple of years.

Green plumbers are trained to use new and innovative technologies that can help decrease your environmental footprint. They are skilled at finding low-flow suppliers and parts that can greatly lower your plumbing system’s overall energy consumption.

A common misconception is that using green plumbing will lead to higher utility bills, but this is not always the case. By reducing your water consumption, you will reduce the amount of energy it takes to heat and transport that water to your home or business. This will lead to lower energy costs in the long run, and you will still be able to enjoy all the water services you need.

In addition, green plumbing solutions can prevent damage to the environment and extend the lifespan of your appliances. For example, brain pipes are a green plumbing technology that works by constantly monitoring your water pressure. If there is any leakage or any other problem, the system will automatically shut off your water supply and alert you to the issue. This will prevent any water damage to your property and ensure that you have a safe and secure plumbing system.

With water shortages and climate change becoming a major concern for many people, it becomes everyone’s responsibility to protect the Earth’s natural resources in their own small way. Switching to green plumbing is one of the easiest ways to do this. Green plumbers have undergone extensive training to understand how to install eco-friendly systems and provide their customers with the best advice.

If you’re looking to reduce your environmental footprint and save money, a green plumbing solution can be the perfect choice for your home or business. Contact your local green plumber to learn more about the options available to you.

A traditional plumbing system consists of two subsystems: the one that brings fresh water in and the other that takes wastewater out. The water supply pipe that brings clean water in typically enters the house through a meter and is shut off when you are not using water. The main water shut-off valve is usually located near the meter. In an emergency, this can save your home from a flood or help you avoid costly damage from burst pipes.

In addition, plumbing systems typically use a series of straight sections called pipes or tubes to carry the water. Pipes can be made of a variety of materials, such as iron, copper, galvanized steel, and plastic. In general, pipes with thicker walls are welded or screwed together, while tubing is joined using methods like brazing, compression fitting, crimping, or for plastics, solvent welding. Pipes can also be fitted with a variety of valves, which allow you to control the flow and direction of water.

As the population grows and water becomes scarcer, it’s important to use less of this precious resource. This is why eco-friendly plumbing techniques are becoming so popular with homeowners and businesses alike. These techniques can be used to reduce your water usage without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

The most obvious way to reduce your water usage is by replacing older fixtures with high-efficiency models. A licensed green plumber can recommend and install a variety of energy-efficient fixtures. These devices can save you up to 30 percent in household water usage. This can lead to big savings on your water, sewer, and energy bills.

Another way to conserve water is by installing rainwater harvesting systems. These systems collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses, such as irrigating gardens or flushing toilets. Plumbing professionals can also help you design and implement greywater recycling systems, which are a great way to reuse wastewater from showers, sinks, washing machines, and dishwashers.

Water conservation is not a new concept, but it’s becoming increasingly popular and important as the world’s water resources are stretched to the limit. It is a simple way to help the environment by cutting down on waste and helping your local water utility company reduce demand for raw water.

Common Plumbing Repairs That Homeowners Can Do Theirself

Bronwyn Carroll Plumbing , , , , ,

From showers to toilets, faucets to water pipes, Platinum Plumbing repairs many different things. Some of these repairs are simple enough for a homeowner to handle with a bit of instruction and the right tools, while others require the expertise of a professional. Plumbing leaks are one of the most common problems that homeowners encounter. Leaks can be caused by pinhole leaks (which can often be fixed with a simple repair sleeve), old age, or damage from tree roots.

Water Heaters

plumbing repair

A conventional tank water heater heats incoming cold water using either an electric element or a gas burner. As the water heats, it rises to the top of the tank and is sent to your faucets via a hot-water pipe. Only a few things can go wrong with this system, including a pilot light that flickers out or a circuit breaker that trips. Depending on the type of water heater you have and what is wrong with it, a plumber may be needed to repair it.

If the pilot light on your gas water heater won’t stay lit, you can try to reignite it by following these steps: Turn off your gas at the main valve, open the hot-water faucets to relieve pressure, and then turn on the pilot light. If this doesn’t work, it is time to call in a professional, as the problem will likely be deeper than a flickering pilot light.

It’s also possible that you simply don’t have enough hot water. If everyone in your home uses hot water at the same time, it can quickly deplete your tank’s supply. Check to see if other people in your household are running the faucets at the same time, and then try turning on the heater again.

Your water heater should be drained at least twice a year to remove sediment that can cause it to malfunction or rust out. The procedure is simple, but a professional should do it to avoid safety hazards and maximize the life of your unit.

Water heaters can last up to 30 years, but they often fail sooner than that due to neglect. Consult with a plumber to establish an annual maintenance schedule for your water heater to keep it running efficiently and to prevent unexpected problems. It is a good idea to have the drain valve and temperature and pressure relief valve inspected and replaced as necessary. A professional plumber can help you choose a new water heater that will best suit your household’s needs. They can also install it for you, if desired.

Faucets

A leaky faucet is one of the most common signs that it’s time for some DIY plumbing repair. Sometimes only a few inexpensive O rings and washers are needed, but other times a main part—a cartridge, stem or ball, for example—needs to be replaced. Luckily, replacing these parts is usually relatively straightforward.

The first step is to shut off the water. Hopefully, whoever fitted your faucet thought to fit shut-off valves on the hot and cold supply lines that lead up to it. If not, turn off the water under the sink.

Next, remove the faucet handle. You can do this with a flat head screwdriver or pliers. After the handle is removed, look under the faucet for a decorative cap covering a screw or hex bolt. If there is one, unscrew it and set it aside. If there’s no cap, grip the hex head of the valve stem assembly with pliers and unscrew counterclockwise to remove it.

If the faucet is a cartridge, ball or ceramic-disk type, what is exposed after removing the handle will be different. Cartridge faucets: Take out the small circular threaded piece (called a retaining clip) that holds the cartridge in place. This may require the use of needle nose pliers to carefully take it out without marring the cartridge. Ball and ceramic-disk faucets: Remove the escutcheon cap, which is a piece of rounded metal that covers the disk cylinder.

Once you have the parts to fix your leaky faucet, inspect them for damage and clean them as necessary. The valve seat usually has mineral buildup that can be cleaned with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Also, the neoprene seals on cartridges can be replaced as needed.

Before you reassemble your faucet, coat any parts that have moving parts in plumber’s grease to prevent them from seizing up and becoming hard to move. Put the faucet back together in reverse order, taking care not to mix up the parts you’ve removed. When finished, turn the water on and test your work. If there are still leaks, tighten or replace the appropriate parts until you find the source of the problem.

Toilets

Toilets are a common fixture that can be a source of frustration for homeowners when they are not working properly. A running toilet wastes water, adds to utility bills and can cause other problems in a home. A plumber can diagnose a toilet problem and fix it quickly and inexpensively. If you are comfortable with a little DIY, you can also make some simple repairs yourself.

Many parts can be replaced without disassembling the tank or removing the toilet. One of the most frequent problems is the water fill valve, which can be replaced by a complete assembly available at most home improvement centers and plumbing supply stores. Experts recommend replacing the fill valve about every five years as part of routine toilet maintenance.

Another common problem is a leaky drain flange. This can be fixed by removing the plastic caps that cover the bolts that hold the bowl to the floor and gradually tightening them. It may also be necessary to replace the wax ring that seals the drain flange.

A clogged toilet can be a real pain and often results in a sewer backup that requires a plumber’s attention. If the clog is caused by a large object, like a toy or a child’s diaper, try removing it with a drain snake. If you are unsuccessful, you should call a plumber for a more thorough cleaning.

Toilets are used in a variety of ways around the world, from flush toilets that sit by sitting or squatting to dry toilets like pit latrines. They are a critical part of a sanitation system that ensures that fecal matter is removed from the human body and does not contaminate waterways or groundwater supplies. In developing countries, improved toilets can reduce deaths due to diarrhea and other diseases caused by poor sanitation.

Drains

Drain lines are the pipes that carry waste water and sewage from all parts of your home to the sewer line. When these pipes break or clog, it can lead to wastewater backup and flooding in the home. This can also cause bad odors, mold, and bacteria. It is important to get these drain lines repaired as soon as possible to avoid extensive damage and high repair costs.

One of the most common causes of drain line breakage is tree roots. Tree roots are drawn to the warm, moist areas of drain lines and can cause them to crack or rupture. When this happens, the plumber will need to remove the damaged section of pipe and replace it. This can be expensive since the plumber will need to dig a trench to reach the broken pipe.

Another common cause of broken drain lines is poor installation. If the pipe was installed incorrectly, it may not be secure or strong enough to support the weight of the water and waste it carries. This can cause the drain line to collapse, which is expensive to repair.

If you suspect a drain line is leaking, it’s important to contact a plumber right away. Leaking drain lines can cause flooding and costly damage to your home’s structure and contents. The most effective way to fix a leaking drain pipe is to cut out the affected area of the pipe and replace it with a new piece. This is a more involved process than simply applying a rubber patch, but it is still within the scope of most DIYers who have some experience working with PVC.

In this Fix-It Guide on drain repairs, you will learn how a household drain system works, what often goes wrong with it, and how to recognize when your home needs a drain repair. The guide then provides simple, step-by-step instructions for how to clear a clogged sink or bathtub drain, how to adjust a bathroom sink stopper, and other basic plumbing repairs. It also explains how to use a plumbing auger and shows you how to repair a toilet drain leak with a simple, inexpensive method that doesn’t require the purchase of any special tools or skills.