Common Questions

Get answers to frequently asked questions about our services

How Can We Help You?

Find quick answers to the most common questions about our plumbing and carpentry services.

Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us or call (785) 742-1783 and we'll be happy to help!

General Information

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes, R. B. Plumbing & Carpentry is fully licensed and insured. We carry comprehensive liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage to protect both our customers and our team members. Our licenses are current and regularly renewed to ensure we meet all state and local requirements for plumbing and carpentry work in Kansas.

Do you offer free estimates?

Absolutely! We provide free, written estimates for all non-emergency services. Our estimates include detailed breakdowns of labor, materials, and any additional costs. For emergency services, there may be a small diagnostic fee that is applied toward the cost of repairs if you choose to proceed with our services.

What areas do you serve?

We proudly serve Kansas City, KS and surrounding areas within a 50-mile radius. This includes Overland Park, Olathe, Topeka, Lawrence, Shawnee, Lenexa, Leawood, and many other communities throughout Kansas. If you're unsure whether we serve your area, please give us a call and we'll let you know!

How quickly can you respond to service calls?

For emergency services, we typically respond within 1-2 hours, 24/7. For non-emergency appointments, we usually can schedule service within 24-48 hours, often the same day if you call early. We understand that plumbing and carpentry issues can be disruptive, so we prioritize quick response times.

Plumbing Services

What should I do if I have a plumbing emergency?

First, try to locate and shut off the main water valve to prevent further damage. Then call us immediately at (785) 742-1783. We're available 24/7 for emergencies. If possible, move valuable items away from the affected area and take photos for insurance purposes. Our emergency team will guide you through immediate steps over the phone while we dispatch a technician.

How much do your plumbing services cost?

Our plumbing services start at $125 for basic drain cleaning, $150 for pipe repairs, $175 for fixture installation, and $200 for water heater services. Final costs depend on the complexity of the job, materials needed, and time required. We provide detailed estimates before beginning work and never surprise you with hidden fees.

Do you work on all types of pipes?

Yes, our experienced plumbers work with all pipe materials including copper, PVC, PEX, CPVC, galvanized steel, and cast iron. We have the specialized tools and expertise to repair or replace any type of plumbing system, from modern installations to older homes with original plumbing.

Can you help me choose between a tank and tankless water heater?

Absolutely! We'll assess your household's hot water usage, available space, energy preferences, and budget to recommend the best option. Tank water heaters have lower upfront costs and are easier to maintain, while tankless units save space and provide endless hot water but cost more initially. We'll explain the pros and cons of each option for your specific situation.

How often should I have my drains cleaned?

We recommend professional drain cleaning every 18-24 months for most homes, or annually for homes with heavy usage, older pipes, or recurring clogs. Kitchen drains may need more frequent attention due to grease buildup. Regular maintenance prevents major blockages and extends the life of your plumbing system.

Carpentry Services

What types of custom carpentry do you offer?

We specialize in custom built-in shelving, entertainment centers, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, crown molding, trim work, wainscoting, closet organizers, home office built-ins, and custom storage solutions. We work with you to design pieces that perfectly fit your space and style preferences while maximizing functionality.

How long does a typical carpentry project take?

Project timelines vary based on complexity and size. Simple installations like trim work or floating shelves typically take 1-2 days. Custom built-ins and cabinets usually require 3-7 days. Large projects like decks can take 1-2 weeks. We provide detailed timelines with our estimates and keep you updated throughout the process.

Do you build outdoor decks and fences?

Yes! We design and build custom decks, fences, pergolas, and other outdoor structures. We work with both traditional wood and composite materials, depending on your preferences and budget. All our outdoor construction meets local building codes and is designed to withstand Kansas weather conditions.

What materials do you work with?

We work with a wide variety of materials including hardwoods (oak, maple, cherry), softwoods (pine, cedar), engineered materials (MDF, plywood), and composite materials for outdoor projects. We help you select the best materials for your project based on durability, appearance, and budget considerations.

Pricing & Payment

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). For larger projects, we also offer payment plans and can work with you to find a payment schedule that fits your budget.

Do you require payment upfront?

For small service calls and repairs, payment is due upon completion. For larger projects, we typically request a small deposit (usually 10-25%) to secure materials and scheduling, with the balance due upon completion. We never require full payment upfront and will work with you on payment arrangements.

Are there extra charges for emergency services?

Emergency services during nights, weekends, and holidays may include a small premium (typically $50-75) in addition to our regular rates. However, we believe in fair pricing and won't take advantage of emergency situations. The emergency fee covers our rapid response and after-hours availability.

Warranty & Guarantees

Do you guarantee your work?

Yes! We stand behind all our work with comprehensive warranties. Labor is guaranteed for 1 year on most services, and we honor manufacturer warranties on all parts and materials. If you experience any issues with our workmanship, we'll return and fix it at no charge.

What if I'm not satisfied with the work?

Customer satisfaction is our top priority. If you're not completely satisfied with our work, please contact us immediately. We'll work with you to address any concerns and make things right. In rare cases where we cannot resolve the issue to your satisfaction, we offer a full refund policy.

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Service Hours

Monday - Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sunday: Emergency Only

24/7 Emergency Service

Quick Tips From Our Experts

Helpful advice to maintain your plumbing and prevent issues

Prevent Clogged Drains

Never pour grease down the drain. Use drain strainers and flush with hot water weekly to prevent buildup.

Water Heater Maintenance

Flush your water heater annually and test the pressure relief valve to extend its lifespan and maintain efficiency.

Know Your Main Shutoff

Locate your main water shutoff valve and ensure everyone in your household knows how to turn it off in emergencies.