When you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, need to install a dishwasher, or get a drainage pipe repaired, you’ll have to call in a plumbing contractor.
Not the same profession as a master plumber, a plumbing contractor is a licensed plumber who’s trained to repair, install, and assemble drainage and water pipes in buildings and properties.
They also provide services for installing gas pipes and are called in to service residential and commercial properties, including private businesses and public sector buildings, like schools.
Although master plumbers specialize in a specific area, it doesn’t mean that plumbing contractors needn’t complete training. Contractors have to get a license from their respective state authority, but before that, aspiring tradesmen need to complete an apprenticeship.
To begin with, aspiring plumbing contractors have to get a high school diploma before getting into a vocational school. Moreover, it’s desirable if they have proficiency in science and math-related subjects.
Potential plumbing contractors have to opt for vocational courses instead of a typical 4-year bachelor’s program. An apprenticeship can be combined with a vocational course since some schools offer it or it can be completed exclusively under the supervision of a licensed plumbing contractor.
This apprenticeship will be similar to on-the-job training, so students will be earning a minimal salary while they learn all the specifics about installations and repairs typically required in urban architecture.
Plumbing contractors get their license from the state or area they will be practicing in and have to renew it on a yearly basis.
Skills required from a plumbing contractor go beyond merely using drain cleaners and a plunger. In fact, most property owners call in a plumber for serious issues, like frozen pipes or septic tank drainage.
Although plumbing contractors should have training to resolve residential and commercial issues, they can choose to concentrate on certain issues, with the right experience.
It’s important that you have knowledge about how plumbing components work and which tools you need for a specific job. Reading blueprints, installing sinks, and performing pipe system tests for pressure are just some of the important tasks that plumbers will have to complete on the job.
Unlike a 9 to 5 job, plumbing contractors have to work in different conditions every day. They need to be able to work in tight spaces, like under kitchen sinks and laundry rooms, to install appliances and pipe systems.
They will need a certain degree of physical strength and precision to carry equipment while making welding changes, a factor that is developed over time while working with heavy equipment.
Just like in any other trade skill, plumbing contractors can work independently. However, this does come with a few challenges of its own.
For certain projects, plumbing contractors need to create plans and diagnose problems in a piping system. They also need to have the capability to calculate quotes and estimates for certain projects.
If they aim to work as individual contractors, they need to possess various business-related skills, like maintaining financial records, negotiating agreements, setting reasonable prices, and purchasing wholesale materials.
PHCEid.org is an advocate for Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Electrical contractors to properly identify their license status for public and customer awareness. Professional Contractors have a license or certification to work in commercial and residential properties.
A lack of proper certification or licensing for becoming a skilled trade professional compromises the integrity of the trade industry. Contractors listed on the PHCEid.org website are licensed and certified according to codes and laws set forth by each governing state and/or entity.
Licensed Contractors work in compliance with local and state codes set forth by their governing trade industry board. Get more information at PHCEid.org or call 844-954-2367 today!
