Vaillancourt Plumbing & Drains

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Vaillancourt Plumbing & Drains

Vaillancourt Plumbing & Drains Limited has been serving residents and businesses throughout Durham Region, Ontario since 1955.

We're Durham Region's oldest plumbing company. Contact us for a job estimate today. As Durham Region's oldest plumbing company, Vaillancourt Plumbing & Drains has been serving the plumbing needs of residential and business customers since 1955 — a testament to our customer-centric approach to our business. As founder Ed Vaillancourt says "Service is our business!" Although daily operations have pa

ssed forward to Ed's son, Brian Vaillancourt, Ed still advises, drawing upon his many years of experience and expertise. We are committed to a high-level of quality workmanship and customer care when it comes to your plumbing needs. Our expertise, friendly service and competitive rates will ensure you receive the exact repairs you need.

05/28/2026

Buying a Home This Spring? Don’t Skip the Plumbing Review

Spring is one of the busiest times of year for homebuyers in Ontario, with more properties listed and showings in full swing. While many buyers focus on cosmetic updates, layouts and neighbourhood amenities, one crucial step that shouldn’t be overlooked is a plumbing review before you finalize your purchase.

Plumbing systems are often out of sight and out of mind — until a problem arises. Hidden issues such as slow drains, sewer line obstructions, low water pressure or outdated piping can lead to costly repairs down the road. A comprehensive plumbing review gives you insight into the condition of the home’s water and drainage systems so you can move forward with confidence.

A licensed plumbing professional from Vaillancourt Plumbing can assess key components such as drain lines, the water heater, shut-off valves and visible pipes. We can also perform advanced diagnostics like camera drain inspections to identify underground issues that a regular visual inspection might miss. Early detection can help you avoid unexpected surprises after closing.

Including a plumbing review in your home inspection checklist adds an important layer of protection to your investment. It can also give you leverage during negotiations if repairs are needed.

Before you make one of the biggest purchases of your life this spring, make sure the plumbing is checked — your future self will thank you.

05/21/2026

Pre-Listing Plumbing Inspections for Home Sellers

When you’re preparing to sell your home in Ontario, first impressions matter — and so does the condition of your plumbing. A pre-listing plumbing inspection can help identify potential issues before a buyer’s inspection reveals them, giving you the chance to make repairs on your terms and avoid surprises during negotiations.

Plumbing problems are among the most common concerns that come up in home inspections. Slow drains, leaking faucets, water heater issues, low water pressure or evidence of hidden leaks can all impact a buyer’s confidence and your sale price. By scheduling a pre-listing inspection, you get a clear picture of your home’s plumbing health and the opportunity to address issues proactively.

During a plumbing inspection, a licensed technician will assess your sewer lines, drain systems, fixtures, water heater, shut-off valves and visible piping for signs of wear, corrosion, blockages or leaks. Advanced services such as camera drain inspections can uncover underground or hidden problems before they become deal-breakers.

Having a clean inspection report to share with prospective buyers can support faster sales and smoother negotiations. It shows transparency and reassures buyers that your home has been well maintained.

05/14/2026

Planning a Basement Renovation? Plumbing Comes First

A basement renovation can transform underused space into a family room, home office, fitness area or guest suite — but before drywall and flooring are installed, the plumbing plan should come first. Proper design and installation ensure your finished basement is functional, comfortable and up to code.

Planning fixture placement early is essential. Deciding where you want a bathroom, wet bar, laundry area or sink determines how drain, vent and supply lines are run. Once framing and finishes are complete, relocating plumbing becomes costly and disruptive.

Basements present unique challenges, including lower ceilings, concrete slabs and gravity-based drainage. In some cases, drains below the main sewer line require solutions such as sewage ejection pumps to move waste efficiently. These systems must be properly sized and installed to prevent backups and long-term issues.

It’s also important to consider moisture control and drainage. Incorporating sump pumps, backwater valves and proper grading into your renovation plan helps protect your investment from water damage.

At Vaillancourt Plumbing, our experienced team works with homeowners and contractors to design and install basement plumbing correctly from the start — helping your renovation stay on schedule and avoiding expensive changes later.

05/07/2026

Backwater Valve Maintenance: What Homeowners Forget

During heavy spring rains and seasonal thaw, sewer systems can become overwhelmed — and if that happens, wastewater can flow back into your home.
That’s where a backwater valve plays a vital role. Installed on your sewer line, a backwater valve prevents sewage from backing up into your basement. But like any mechanical system, it needs regular maintenance to work when you need it most.

One of the most common things homeowners forget is routine testing. Over time, debris, grit and sediment can build up around the valve flap, preventing it from closing properly. If you haven’t checked the valve since installation, you might be surprised how much material has accumulated. At minimum, it’s good practice to inspect and test the valve twice a year, especially before spring and fall.

Another area often overlooked is cleaning the access cover and surrounding area. Leaves, lawn debris or even rodents can interfere with proper operation. A quick visual inspection ensures nothing obstructs the mechanism.

Many homeowners assume once a backwater valve is installed, no further action is needed — but valves can wear, seals can degrade, and mechanical parts can seize. Having a licensed plumber perform a professional inspection ensures the valve will respond correctly during heavy runoff or sewer stress.

04/30/2026

Sump Pump Checkup Guide Before Heavy Spring Rains

Spring in Ontario brings thawing ground, melting snow and heavy rainfall — conditions that can quickly overwhelm basements if your sump pump isn’t ready. A properly functioning sump pump is one of the best defences against basement flooding, making a spring checkup essential before rainstorms arrive.

Start by testing your sump pump: pour a bucket of water into the pit and ensure the pump activates and removes the water promptly. If it hesitates, runs continuously, or doesn’t clear the pit, your pump may need service or replacement. This simple spring test can reveal issues before heavy moisture puts your home at risk.

Check that the power source and backup systems are working. Spring storms can bring power disruptions, and a battery backup or water-powered backup can keep your pump running when you need it most. Also inspect the discharge line — it should be clear of debris, facing away from your foundation, and free from ice buildup.

Listen for unusual noises and inspect for rust, wear or excessive cycling. If your sump pump is more than five years old, consider speaking with a professional about newer, more reliable models designed for heavy spring runoff.

At Vaillancourt Plumbing, our experienced technicians can perform a full sump pump inspection and maintenance check so you’re prepared for seasonal rains. Protect your basement now, and avoid costly water damage later.

04/23/2026

Why Spring Is the Best Time for a Camera Drain Inspection

Spring is one of the best times of year to book a camera drain inspection for your home or business in Ontario. After a long winter of fluctuating temperatures, freeze-thaw cycles, and increased moisture, underground plumbing systems can experience stress that isn’t always visible from above ground.

A camera drain inspection uses a small, flexible video camera to travel through your sewer and drain lines, allowing a licensed technician to identify blockages, cracks, root intrusion, corrosion, and early signs of damage before they lead to backups or costly repairs. Winter shifts in soil and frost can create misalignments or stress on pipes that often go unnoticed until spring melt or rainstorms push systems past their limits.

By scheduling a camera inspection in spring, you can catch problems early — before heavy rainfall and the busier summer season. This is especially important in older neighbourhoods, homes with mature trees, or properties that have experienced slow drains in past years.

At Vaillancourt Plumbing, we use advanced inspection technology to give you a clear picture of your underground plumbing health. Whether you’re experiencing slow drains or just want peace of mind heading into spring, a camera drain inspection can save you time, money and stress down the road.

04/16/2026

Spring Thaw Plumbing Risks — What Happens Underground

As spring arrives in Ontario and temperatures begin to rise, the thaw can create plumbing challenges that many homeowners don’t expect. While most plumbing issues inside the home are obvious, what’s happening underground can be just as important — and often more serious.

During winter, water left in pipes and sewer lines can freeze and expand. Even though the earth provides some insulation, underground pipes can still be vulnerable — especially if they are shallow, poorly insulated, or near exposed areas.

When temperatures fluctuate during the spring thaw, that ice can begin to melt unevenly, potentially causing blockages, cracks or even pipe bursts beneath the surface. This can lead to slow drainage, sewer backups, and unexpected water damage once the ice finally gives way.

Spring thaw also means heavier rain and runoff. Excess water can put extra pressure on sewer lines and drainage systems, increasing the risk of clogs or overflows if the system is already stressed from winter conditions.

Being proactive during the spring transition helps reduce the risk of costly underground plumbing problems. A thorough inspection by a licensed professional can identify areas of concern before they become emergencies.

At Vaillancourt Plumbing, our experienced team can assess, diagnose and address underground issues — so your plumbing stays reliable through the thaw and into the warmer months.

04/09/2026

Why Hiring a Licensed Plumber Matters (Even for Small Jobs)

When plumbing issues arise, it can be tempting to hire the quickest or least expensive option — especially for what appears to be a small repair. However, working with a licensed plumber offers important protections and long-term value that go far beyond the immediate fix.

Licensed plumbers are trained to meet current building codes, safety standards, and local regulations. Even minor jobs such as replacing a valve, repairing a leak, or installing a fixture must be completed correctly to prevent water damage, pressure issues, or future failures. Improper work can lead to hidden leaks, mould growth, or voided insurance coverage.

Experience is another key factor. Licensed professionals understand how plumbing systems function as a whole, not just at the point of repair. This allows them to identify underlying issues — such as corrosion, excessive water pressure, or failing connections — that may not be obvious during a quick fix.

Hiring a licensed plumber also provides accountability and protection. Professional work is typically insured and backed by warranties, offering peace of mind that the repair meets industry standards. If issues arise later, there is clear responsibility and recourse.

Plumbing systems are critical to the safety and performance of a home. Choosing a licensed professional — even for small jobs — helps ensure repairs are done correctly, efficiently, and with long-term reliability in mind.

04/02/2026

DIY Plumbing Fixes That Often Make Things Worse

DIY plumbing fixes can seem like a quick, cost-effective solution, but certain repairs often cause more harm than good without proper tools or experience. What starts as a small issue can quickly escalate into water damage, costly repairs, or code violations.

One common mistake is using chemical drain cleaners. While they may provide temporary relief, these products can corrode pipes — especially in older systems — and often fail to remove buildup along pipe walls. Repeated use can weaken pipes and increase the risk of leaks.

Over-tightening fittings is another frequent issue. Too much force can crack fixtures, strip threads, or damage seals, leading to slow leaks behind walls or under sinks. Using the wrong materials — such as mismatched pipes or incorrect sealants — can also compromise joint integrity.

Temporary fixes like tape, putty, or sealants are often misused. While they may slow a leak, they rarely address the root cause and can hide underlying problems such as corrosion or pressure issues.

Understanding the limits of DIY work is essential. While basic maintenance has its place, plumbing systems are complex. Addressing problems correctly from the start helps protect your home and avoid preventable damage.

03/26/2026

Common Plumbing Problems in Older Homes

Older homes offer charm and character, but their plumbing systems often reflect the materials and standards of their time. As these systems age, certain issues become more common and can affect performance, safety, and efficiency if not addressed.

One frequent concern is ageing pipe materials. Galvanized steel and cast iron pipes, commonly used in older homes, are prone to corrosion and internal buildup. Over time, this can restrict water flow, reduce pressure, and increase the risk of leaks or pipe failure.

Another issue is outdated fixtures and valves. Older shut-off valves, faucets, and toilet components may wear out or become difficult to operate, increasing the likelihood of drips, running toilets, or sudden leaks. In some cases, replacement parts may be harder to source.

Hidden leaks are also more likely in older homes, particularly behind walls or under floors where pipes have weakened gradually. These leaks can lead to water damage, mould growth, and higher utility bills before they’re detected.

Drainage problems are another common challenge. Years of grease, soap residue, and mineral buildup can narrow pipes, causing slow drains or recurring clogs. Tree root intrusion is also more common in older sewer lines made of clay or cast iron.

Regular inspection and proactive maintenance help preserve plumbing performance in older homes, allowing homeowners to address issues early and reduce the risk of unexpected repairs.

03/19/2026

How Often Should You Have Your Drains Professionally Cleaned?

Professional drain cleaning is an important part of maintaining a healthy plumbing system, yet it’s often overlooked until a problem occurs. How often drains should be cleaned depends on usage, plumbing age, and daily activities in the home.

For most residential properties, professional drain cleaning every one to two years is sufficient to prevent buildup and maintain proper flow. Homes with frequent cooking, long hair, or older plumbing may benefit from more regular service. Kitchens are prone to grease accumulation, while bathroom drains collect hair, soap residue, and mineral deposits over time.

Recurring slow drains, gurgling sounds, unpleasant odours, or frequent clogs are signs that professional cleaning may be needed sooner. These symptoms often indicate buildup along pipe walls rather than a single blockage. Left untreated, residue can harden, restrict flow, and increase the risk of backups or pipe damage.

Professional methods such as snaking or hydro-jetting remove debris more thoroughly than household solutions. Unlike chemical cleaners, these techniques clear buildup without damaging pipes or leaving residue behind.

Routine drain cleaning extends the life of plumbing systems, reduces emergency repairs, and supports consistent drainage throughout the home. Addressing buildup early helps protect plumbing performance and long-term reliability.

Address

27 Warren Avenue
Oshawa, ON
L1J4E9

Website

https://www.vaillancourtplumbing.ca/

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