We like to use a sanded caulk that matches the grout for that seam between the countertop and backsplash. The flexibility of the caulk allows it to expand and contract without cracking out like normal grout. It's not a forever fix and needs to be touched up occasionaly, but it's a much better solution than just grouting that joint.

Hi John, 

Turn on your sprinklers for the zone your leak is on and let it run. The area where the leak is will cause the ground around it to be soaked and water logged more so than any other area. There is your leak.

Good luck!

It all depends on the companies policy. Here we would of course be more than happy to come out and look at everything, and fix them for you, but we also do provide 10 year warranties to our customers, so it may be different for the company you worked with. I would definitely call and let them know when the work was done, everything seemed fine, until you had an attic inspection scheduled and they had informed you about how poorly the job was done. Most companies should be more than happy to fix mistakes on their end for any customer they've had! 

Good luck with everything, I hope it all works out and gets fixed for you!

Sorry to hear of your troubles.I would first start with calling the company; they might not know that the installation was not done correctly.Given the opportunity most contractors will correct the mistake.If that does not work then I would call the local Better Business Bureau. Also most states have a home improvement regulatory commission of some fashion. In our state, Maryland, contractors must be licensed by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.Dissatisfied homeowners can file a complaint to the commission for unsatisfactory work.

As with everything the BUYER MUST BEWARE. It is you the homeowners responsibility to do your homework BEFORE you buy. The home improvement industry is full of smooth talking salesmen that promise the world. Hire contractors that have a long history of reliable service. They usually are not the cheapest contractor in town; but high quality reliable service does not come cheap. In the long run they will be your cheapest option... considering the fact that now you have to do the same job twice!

If you are leaving the house, you definitely want to shut the water off to the house, in case the water line bursts. Otherwise, if you can find the frozen area, you can take a hair dryer to the spot to slowly thaw the pipes. Don't het the pipe quickly, as this will most likely cause the pipe to burst. Just always be ready to shut the water off to the entire house and have a bucket near. Good Luck.

What make & model is your new water heater?

The trick with caulking is to spray the wet caulking with Windex and then tool it with your finger.  For "rookies" you may want to use masking tape.  Here is a YouTube video that might help, too. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPGKdwnHhaE

First, clean out the existing caulk the best you can with a utility knife, flat razor or a putty knife.  To get it extra clean and depending on what type of caulk was there before, you can use baking soda and a rag to remove hard water build up and caulk residue.  Once you've done that, I recommend GE Silicone 2 or Dap Kitchen and bath caulk.  (I like the small hand tubes, not the kind that goes in a gun.)  Water based caulks are easier to work with, but silicone has it's advantages.  To apply silicone, clean and dry the area, apply a small bead, then spray the area with soapy water.  This will keep the silicone from spreading up the edge of the splash or onto the counter.  Then wipe once with your finger and your done.  The waterbased caulk can be applied in a small bead and then cleaned up/smoothed with a wet rag.

I agree that buying quality fixtures is the way to go.  We have had our best results using Moen, plus they carry a Lifetime Warranty.  There are many good models but we have had the most success with the Kingsley line for bathroom remodeling.  Not only is Moen Kingsley available in the most popular finishes of Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze but you can coordinate with matching fixtures for the entire bathroom including accessories like toilet paper holders, towel bars, robe hooks, etc.  Let's face it, you get what you pay for!

We use Culligan for our house and they install.  Hiring a plumber is not necessary.

Daniel, Gavigan Uses Tankless water heat ( Gas or LP) when ever possible. The industry and level of Quaity have surpassed common standards. Knowing how to check and possibly service the system is a a Must. The systems are low maintance although knowing Why and how to check if it's working is key incase of a power outage, freeze, or just need to know. 

PRO TIP: KNOW WHERE THE FLUSH Lever is and how to remedy in a freeze situation. See if you need a 7 or 9 Gallon system ( flow) 

Great comment! GAVIGAN HOMES GAVIGAN CONSTRUCTION 

Billy Gavigan