Plumbers in Aurora Highlands

Homes in the Highlands

The area developed in stages, with much of the housing dating from the late twentieth century and newer construction added on former golf course lands nearby. Expect two-storey detached homes, often with three or more bathrooms, finished basements and mechanical rooms that have grown more crowded with each upgrade.

Since so many homes here were finished in the same few years, neighbours often see the same equipment reach the end of its life around the same time. When one street starts replacing water heaters or sump pumps, the next few houses are usually not far behind.

Sump pumps and grading

Rolling terrain gives the Highlands much of its character, and it also moves water. Houses on lower lots or near ravines can collect groundwater against their foundations in spring and after heavy rain. A working sump pump is the main line of defence.

• Every spring, empty a pail into the pit and watch the pump cycle.
• Make sure the discharge line outside is clear and directs water well away from the foundation.
• Check that the check valve does not slam or let water run back down.
• Consider a battery backup if the house sits low.

Downspouts and lot grading play a role too. A sump that runs constantly may be telling you about a drainage issue outside.

Water heaters for big households

Running two showers, the dishwasher and a laundry load at once is ordinary in a house this size. A standard tank can run short. Options include a larger tank, a high-recovery model, or a tankless unit that heats on demand. Electric units suit homes where gas is not convenient to the mechanical room. Our electric water heater installation page explains that route.

Bathroom renovations

Ensuite and main bath renovations are frequent requests here. Common items include replacing older shower valves with pressure-balancing ones, converting tubs to walk-in showers, and swapping single vanities for doubles. Busy kitchens also see their share of slow drains, and the kitchen drain cleaning page covers that.

Homes with exterior walls exposed to the north wind, especially bathrooms over garages, are prone to frozen pipes in cold snaps. Our frozen pipe prevention article covers the easy steps.

To the southwest, Hills of St. Andrew brings even larger lots and longer service lines.

Larger homes also mean more fixtures that can quietly leak. A toilet that runs in a little-used guest bath or a dripping laundry tub faucet can go unnoticed for months. A walk through every room each season, listening for running water and looking under sinks, catches most of it early.