A practical guide for Boise homeowners who want reliable hot water—without guesswork
Hot water problems rarely show up at a convenient time—especially with busy households, early school mornings, and unpredictable Idaho weather swings. If you’re planning a water heater installation in Boise (or trying to decide whether your current unit can be repaired), the smartest move is to match the heater to your home’s demand, fuel type, and water quality—not just the sticker price.
Cloverdale Plumbing has served the Treasure Valley since 1953, and we’ve seen the same pattern again and again: the “wrong” water heater usually fails early, performs poorly, or costs more to operate than expected. This guide breaks down how to choose a system that fits your home and helps you know when it’s time to replace instead of patching another part.
Step 1: Know what type of water heater you’re replacing
Most Boise homes have one of these setups:
- Gas tank water heater (common in many neighborhoods): fast recovery, dependable, needs proper venting and safe combustion air.
- Electric tank water heater: simple and reliable, but may recover more slowly depending on element size and household usage.
- Tankless water heater (gas or electric): heats on demand, saves space, can require upgrades (especially gas line sizing or electrical capacity).
- Heat pump water heater (electric): highly efficient, but needs adequate space/airflow and works best in appropriate locations (garage/utility area), depending on the home.
If you’re not sure what you have, an easy clue is venting: metal vent pipe and a gas line typically indicate a gas unit; no vent and heavier electrical wiring usually indicates electric.
Quick comparison: what homeowners care about most
| Type | Best for | Watch-outs | Typical “surprise costs” |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Tank | Families with high hot-water demand and fast recovery needs | Venting/combustion air, gas safety, sediment and scale | Venting updates, gas line sizing, code-related access changes |
| Electric Tank | Smaller homes or moderate usage; straightforward replacement | Recovery rate, element/thermostat failures | Electrical updates if panel/circuit isn’t sized right |
| Tankless | Space-saving needs; long showers; “endless hot water” goals | Flow-rate limits, scaling in hard water, annual flushing | Gas line upsizing, venting changes, water conditioning needs |
| Heat Pump | Efficiency-focused households and long-term operating savings | Placement/airflow, noise, condensate management | Drain for condensate, space/clearances, electrical needs |
Step 2: Size it for real life (not just bedrooms and bathrooms)
The “right size” water heater depends on how your home actually uses hot water. Two households with the same square footage can have totally different hot-water demand based on:
- Back-to-back showers in the morning
- Laundry frequency (especially hot washes)
- Large soaking tubs or body-spray showers
- Dishwasher + shower running at the same time
Helpful rule of thumb: If your family “stacks” hot-water use (multiple showers, laundry, and dishes close together), prioritize a system with strong recovery (often gas tank) or correctly-sized tankless. The cheapest unit that “kind of works” is usually the most expensive one over time.
Step 3: Factor in Boise’s hard water (it matters more than most people think)
Much of the Treasure Valley deals with hard water, often cited in the range of roughly 8–15 grains per gallon depending on area and source. That mineral content can create scale buildup inside tank heaters and tankless heat exchangers, reducing efficiency and shortening equipment life.
If you’ve noticed any of these, hard water may already be affecting your plumbing system:
- White crusty buildup on faucets/showerheads
- Spots on dishes and glassware
- Hot water taking longer to heat or running out faster than it used to
For many Boise homeowners, pairing a new water heater with a water softener (or at minimum planning maintenance around scaling) is one of the best “quiet upgrades” you can make.
Related service: If you’re noticing scale, stiff laundry, or poor soap lather, consider a home water treatment approach.
Maintenance tie-in: If mineral buildup is also affecting drains and main lines, periodic professional cleaning can help reduce recurring clogs.
“Did you know?” fast facts Boise homeowners find useful
Sediment can sound like trouble. Rumbling, popping, or cracking noises are often linked to sediment/mineral buildup in tank-style heaters and can be an early warning sign that performance is dropping.
Efficiency rules are changing. Federal water heater efficiency standards have been updated, with major compliance milestones expected in 2029. If you’re replacing a unit soon, it’s worth discussing efficiency options that make sense now and still feel like a smart purchase long-term.
Access matters. In Boise, placement and access policies for water heaters can affect replacement logistics. If your heater is tucked behind permanent construction or hard-to-reach framing, it may need changes so it can be serviced or replaced safely later.
Repair vs. replace: a clear checklist
If you’re deciding whether to repair your current water heater or move forward with replacement, use this homeowner-friendly checklist:
| If you notice this… | Often points to… | Common next step |
|---|---|---|
| Water around the base of the tank | Possible tank leak or plumbing connection leak | Immediate inspection; tank leaks often mean replacement |
| Rumbling/popping noises | Sediment buildup, overheating at the bottom of the tank | Flush/maintenance evaluation; replace if tank is aged or severely scaled |
| Rusty or foul-smelling hot water | Corrosion, anode rod issues, or tank deterioration | Assess anode/tank condition; replacement may be more cost-effective |
| Inconsistent temperature (hot/cold swings) | Thermostat/element issues (electric) or control/burner issues (gas) | Repair if unit is in good overall condition; replace if multiple failures |
Safety note: If you ever smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide venting issues, leave the area and contact professionals right away. Water heater installation isn’t just a comfort upgrade—it’s a safety system.
A Boise-local angle: why “quick swaps” can turn into longer projects
Boise homes span decades of construction styles—from older neighborhoods with tighter utility spaces to newer builds with different venting and layout requirements. A water heater replacement that looks simple can require updates once the old unit comes out, including:
- Bringing venting and combustion air up to modern safety expectations
- Improving access/clearances so the heater can be serviced and replaced in the future
- Adjusting piping, shutoff valves, expansion tanks, or drain pans depending on location and risk
If your water heater is in a closet, finished basement, or a tight mechanical room, planning ahead prevents last-minute surprises.
Working on a remodel? It’s the best time to plan water heater placement, pipe routing, and fixture upgrades so everything works together.
Schedule your water heater installation with a Boise team that’s on-call when it matters
If your water heater is leaking, noisy, underperforming, or simply outdated, Cloverdale Plumbing can help you choose a system that matches your home’s needs—and install it safely and cleanly. We also offer 24/7 emergency support when hot water can’t wait.
FAQ: Water heater installation in Boise
How do I know if my water heater needs replacement instead of repair?
If you have recurring breakdowns, rumbling noises with poor performance, rusty/foul hot water, or visible leaking at/around the tank, replacement is often the safer and more cost-effective option. A technician can confirm whether the tank itself is compromised or if a component repair makes sense.
If you have recurring breakdowns, rumbling noises with poor performance, rusty/foul hot water, or visible leaking at/around the tank, replacement is often the safer and more cost-effective option. A technician can confirm whether the tank itself is compromised or if a component repair makes sense.
Is tankless a good fit for Boise homes?
Tankless can be an excellent option when it’s properly sized and installed. The big factors are household hot-water demand (simultaneous uses), gas or electrical capacity, venting requirements, and hard-water scaling. Many homeowners also plan for periodic flushing/maintenance to keep performance strong.
Tankless can be an excellent option when it’s properly sized and installed. The big factors are household hot-water demand (simultaneous uses), gas or electrical capacity, venting requirements, and hard-water scaling. Many homeowners also plan for periodic flushing/maintenance to keep performance strong.
Why is my water heater making popping or rumbling sounds?
That sound is commonly associated with sediment/mineral buildup—especially in areas with harder water. It can reduce efficiency and strain the tank over time. A professional evaluation will help determine whether flushing and maintenance is enough or if the unit is too scaled/aged to justify it.
That sound is commonly associated with sediment/mineral buildup—especially in areas with harder water. It can reduce efficiency and strain the tank over time. A professional evaluation will help determine whether flushing and maintenance is enough or if the unit is too scaled/aged to justify it.
Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in Boise?
Many replacements involve code and safety requirements (especially gas units). Permit needs can vary by project scope and jurisdiction. A licensed plumbing contractor can help navigate requirements and ensure the installation meets local policies (including access and safe placement).
Many replacements involve code and safety requirements (especially gas units). Permit needs can vary by project scope and jurisdiction. A licensed plumbing contractor can help navigate requirements and ensure the installation meets local policies (including access and safe placement).
Can hard water shorten the life of a new water heater?
Yes. Mineral scale can accumulate on heating surfaces and inside the tank, lowering efficiency and increasing wear. Water treatment (like softening) and planned maintenance can help protect your investment.
Yes. Mineral scale can accumulate on heating surfaces and inside the tank, lowering efficiency and increasing wear. Water treatment (like softening) and planned maintenance can help protect your investment.
Glossary (plain-English plumbing terms)
Grains per gallon (gpg): A common way to measure water hardness. Higher numbers mean more dissolved minerals that can form scale.
Sediment: Mineral particles that settle in the bottom of a tank-style water heater, often leading to noise and reduced efficiency.
Recovery rate: How quickly a tank water heater can reheat a full tank after hot water has been used.
Heat exchanger (tankless): The component that transfers heat into your water. Hard-water scale can reduce performance if not managed.
Combustion air / venting (gas units): The air a gas burner needs to operate safely and the pathway that exhaust uses to exit the home. Proper venting is critical for safety.
Plumbing Remodels in Nampa, ID: A Homeowner’s Guide to Better Water Pressure, Smarter Layouts, and Fewer Leaks
October 20, 2026Planning a kitchen or bathroom update? Don’t let “hidden plumbing” become the surprise cost.
Plumbing remodels are where comfort and reliability are won (or lost). In Nampa, older supply lines, aging shutoff valves, hard-water scale, and undersized drains can quietly limit water pressure, shorten fixture life, and increase the risk of leaks behind walls. A good plumbing plan aligns your new layout with code, protects your home from water damage, and helps your remodel last for decades—not just look good on day one.
Cloverdale Plumbing has served the Treasure Valley since 1953, helping homeowners and businesses with remodeling, drain work, pipe repair, water heaters, and water treatment—plus 24/7 emergency service when something goes sideways mid-project.
What counts as a “plumbing remodel” (and why it matters)
A plumbing remodel is more than swapping a faucet. It usually involves changes to water supply lines, drain/vent piping, fixture locations, or equipment like water heaters and softeners. Even when you’re keeping the same footprint, opening a wall often reveals opportunities (and risks): corroded connections, outdated shutoffs, and pipe runs that don’t support modern fixtures.
Common plumbing remodel goals in Nampa homes
Improve shower pressure and temperature stability, add a second bathroom, relocate a kitchen sink or island, upgrade to a larger tub, add a gas line for appliances, reduce drain clogs, or install filtration/softening to address hard-water scale.
The hidden win
Remodeling is often the best time to modernize shutoff valves, replace brittle supply lines, correct venting issues, and clean or rehabilitate drains—work that’s hard (and expensive) once the new tile and cabinetry are installed.
Permits & code: what Nampa homeowners should know
Many plumbing changes require permits and inspections. The City of Nampa provides plumbing permit application guidance and notes that permit applications and payments should be submitted ahead of the first scheduled work, and that starting regulated work before permits can trigger additional fees. Keep your project smooth by confirming permit needs early—especially if you’re moving fixtures, altering drains/vents, or adding/relocating water heaters.
Idaho uses a state plumbing code framework based on the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), with state and local amendments. That’s why a local plumber who works in Canyon County every day is valuable: they plan the job to pass inspection and function well long after the remodel dust settles.
Step-by-step: how to plan a plumbing remodel that won’t bite back
1) Lock in the layout before you buy fixtures
A dream vanity can become a headache if supply and drain locations don’t align, or if a tub requires a different valve setup. Confirm rough-in dimensions, drain placement, and any framing constraints before purchasing.
2) Treat “access” like a feature, not an afterthought
When walls are open, it’s the ideal time to add accessible shutoff valves, update dishwasher/ice-maker supplies, and ensure cleanouts are reachable. Access saves money the first time a line needs service.
3) Decide if you’re “refreshing” pipes or replacing them
If pipes are nearing end-of-life, patchwork repairs can turn into repeat leaks. A remodel is often the most cost-effective moment to replace vulnerable sections—especially in bathrooms and kitchens where water damage is expensive.
4) Address drain performance (not just clogs)
Slow drains are often caused by buildup on pipe walls—grease, soap, hair, mineral scale—or root intrusion in sewer lines. Professional hot-water jetting (hydro jetting) can scour pipe walls and help reduce recurring backups, especially when buildup is the real culprit.
5) Plan for water quality and scale
Hard water can contribute to mineral scale inside fixtures, valves, and some water-heating equipment. If you’re already investing in a remodel, consider whether a water softener or filtration system makes sense for your household—especially for protecting showers, faucets, and the water heater.
6) Choose fixtures for real life (kids, guests, resale)
A family home needs durable, easy-to-clean finishes, scald protection where appropriate, and toilets and faucets that balance performance with water use. A plumber can also help confirm compatibility (valves, adapters, supply sizes) before install day.
Did you know? Quick facts that help remodel decisions
Hydro jetting is different than “snaking.” A cable can punch through a blockage, but jetting is designed to clean the inside pipe wall by blasting away residue like grease and scale (and in some cases roots with specialized nozzles).
Permits protect homeowners. Inspections help confirm safety, code compliance, and proper installation—especially for concealed work behind walls.
Shutoff valves are remodel MVPs. New fixtures are great, but the ability to isolate one bathroom or one sink without shutting down the whole house is what makes repairs less disruptive.
Remodel decision table: “Keep it cosmetic” vs. “Upgrade the plumbing while it’s open”
| Decision Point | Cosmetic-Only Approach | Plumbing-Forward Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Older shutoff valves | Leave as-is until they fail | Replace/upgrade while walls are accessible |
| Recurring slow drains | Hope new fixtures “solve it” | Camera/diagnose if needed; clean lines; address venting/grade |
| Hard-water scale | Replace fixtures more often | Consider softening/filtration to protect the investment |
| Moving fixtures | Higher risk of surprises mid-build | Plan rough-in early; permit correctly; verify drain/vent routing |
Tip: If you’ve had even one hidden leak in the last few years, it’s worth discussing proactive pipe repair or replacement in the remodel zone.
Local angle: what remodels in Nampa often run into
Nampa homeowners often want remodels that improve day-to-day function for families: better shower performance, more durable fixtures, and fewer drain issues. In the Treasure Valley, buildup in drains and sewer lines can be driven by a mix of grease, scale, and (in some neighborhoods) root intrusion—especially when mature landscaping meets older sewer laterals. If your kitchen sink or main line has a history of repeat clogs, adding a professional drain cleaning plan during the remodel is often cheaper than emergency calls after new floors and cabinetry go in.
If your remodel includes a water heater location change, capacity upgrade, or switching to tankless, plan it early so venting, clearances, and supply lines are handled correctly from the start.
Talk to a plumber before demo day
If you’re remodeling in Nampa and want clear options, straightforward communication, and workmanship that holds up, Cloverdale Plumbing can help you plan the plumbing scope, coordinate timing, and handle emergency needs without sending you to a call center.
Exploring service options? View all plumbing services.
FAQ: Plumbing remodels in Nampa, Idaho
Do I need a permit to remodel a bathroom or kitchen?
If you’re changing plumbing lines, moving fixtures, modifying drains/vents, or installing certain equipment, a permit is commonly required. For Nampa projects, verify with the City of Nampa Building Department early so inspection timing doesn’t delay drywall and tile.
What’s the biggest mistake homeowners make during a plumbing remodel?
Buying fixtures before confirming rough-in requirements and drain placement. A quick pre-demo planning visit can prevent “return trips” and last-minute layout compromises.
Is hydro jetting safe for pipes?
When used appropriately by a professional who evaluates the line condition, hydro jetting is a common method for removing buildup from drain and sewer lines. If a line is already compromised, your plumber may recommend alternate approaches or repairs first.
Should I replace pipes during a remodel even if they aren’t leaking?
Not always—but if the plumbing is aging, has a history of leaks, or you’re already opening walls, replacing high-risk sections can reduce the odds of future damage to brand-new finishes. A plumber can assess pipe material, condition, and prior repair history.
Can you remodel plumbing for a home addition or new construction project?
Yes. Plumbing planning for additions and new construction involves drain/vent design, supply sizing, fixture selection, and coordination with inspections and other trades. If your remodel is expanding the home’s footprint, bring your plumber in early.
Glossary (helpful terms you’ll hear during a remodel)
Rough-in
The stage where supply, drain, and vent lines are installed (or repositioned) before walls are closed and fixtures are set.
Drain/vent (DWV)
The system that removes wastewater (drain) and allows airflow (vent) to prevent siphoning of traps and sewer gas issues.
Cleanout
An access point on a drain line used to service clogs, camera the line, or perform jetting—important to keep reachable after remodel finishes.
Hydro jetting (hot-water jetting)
A professional drain-cleaning method that uses high-pressure water (often heated) to remove grease, mineral scale, and buildup from pipe walls.
Hard-water scale
Mineral deposits that can accumulate in fixtures and appliances, reducing performance and contributing to maintenance needs over time.
Plumbing Remodels in Meridian, ID: What to Plan Before You Open a Wall
October 16, 2026A smoother kitchen or bathroom remodel starts with the plumbing plan—not the tile.
Remodeling in Meridian is exciting—new layout, better storage, upgraded finishes. But the “behind-the-walls” plumbing is what determines whether your remodel feels effortless for years or becomes a cycle of slow drains, low pressure, and surprise leaks. At Cloverdale Plumbing, we’ve helped Treasure Valley homeowners plan plumbing remodels that function as beautifully as they look—without last-minute change orders or costly rework.
Why plumbing is the make-or-break part of a remodel
Paint and fixtures are easy to swap later. Plumbing is not. Once walls are closed and surfaces are finished, changing drain locations, venting, or supply lines often means cutting into new drywall, cabinets, or tile—turning a “small tweak” into a major disruption. That’s why the best remodels settle plumbing decisions early: layout, rough-in heights, drain routing, venting strategy, shutoffs, and access points.
Plumbing remodels in Meridian: what typically changes
Most kitchen and bathroom remodels involve at least one of these plumbing-impacting changes:
Fixture upgrades: toilets, faucets, tubs, shower valves, sinks, garbage disposals, dishwashers.
Layout changes: moving a sink, adding a second vanity, relocating a shower, adding a pot filler or fridge water line.
Drain/vent corrections: improving how a line vents, fixing recurring clogs, or replacing old piping.
Water quality add-ons: filtration, reverse osmosis, or a whole-home water softener to reduce scale buildup.
If you’re considering any relocation of fixtures, plan to involve a licensed plumber early. Even a “small move” can impact slope, venting, and how the system performs day-to-day.
Step-by-step: a practical plumbing plan for your remodel
1) Lock in your fixture selections early (or at least the specs)
Rough-in locations should match the actual products you’re installing—not just a generic “standard” assumption. Vanity depth, faucet reach, shower valve type, tub drain placement, and toilet rough-in distance all matter. When specs change late, the plumbing often has to move—and that’s when delays and extra costs appear.
2) Decide what must move—and what shouldn’t
Moving a fixture isn’t automatically “bad,” but it should be deliberate. Keeping a toilet, tub, or kitchen sink near existing drain and vent lines often reduces time, wall/floor demolition, and the risk of performance issues later. If the new layout requires relocation, your plumber can verify drain slope, venting routes, and structural constraints before framing closes.
3) Plan shutoff valves and access points like you’ll need them later (because you will)
A great remodel includes practical details: fixture shutoffs that are easy to reach, cleanouts where they’ll actually help, and service access for shower valves, tubs, and specialty drains. These choices don’t show up in photos—but they matter the first time you need a repair.
4) Don’t ignore venting (it affects odor, gurgling, and slow drains)
Homeowners often associate “drain problems” with blockages only. But poor venting can cause slow drainage, siphoned traps, or sewer odors. During a remodel, venting is one of the most important behind-the-wall checks—especially when adding a second sink, changing a shower location, or finishing a basement space.
5) Address “known issues” while walls are open
If you’ve had recurring clogs, a noisy water line, uneven hot water delivery, or signs of corrosion, a remodel is the ideal time to fix it. The same repair is often simpler and less invasive before finishes go in. This is also when services like hot water jetting or targeted pipe repairs can help reset drain performance.
6) Coordinate rough-in timing with your remodel schedule
“Rough-in” happens after demo/framing but before drywall and waterproofing. It’s the moment to confirm exact stub-out locations, valve heights, drain centering, and clearances with cabinets, niches, and tile layouts. A good rough-in reduces inspection issues and helps your remodel stay on track.
Quick comparison: DIY-friendly tasks vs. plumber-required work
| Remodel Task | Typically Homeowner-Manageable | Typically Plumber Territory | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selecting fixtures (sink, faucet, toilet) | Yes | Help recommended | Specs drive rough-in heights, clearances, and valve type. |
| Moving a sink/toilet/shower | No | Yes | Drain slope, vent routing, and code compliance affect long-term performance. |
| Replacing old shutoff valves | Sometimes | Often | A failed valve can mean emergency water shutoff and water damage. |
| Main drain performance / recurring clogs | No | Yes | Professional drain cleaning or jetting can prevent backups during remodel use. |
| Fixture installation (final set) | Some items | Common | Leaks often show up after cabinets/tile go in—best avoided. |
Tip: If your remodel includes new fixture locations, hidden drain work, or supply line reroutes, schedule a plumber before the cabinet order is finalized—cabinet dimensions and plumbing stub-outs must agree.
Did you know? (Remodel-saving facts)
Finishes can hide problems. A drain can “work” during a quick test but still drain poorly once the bathroom is in daily use—venting and proper slope matter as much as clearing the pipe.
Toilet flange height is a common remodel tripwire. When new flooring changes the finished height, the toilet connection may need adjustment to prevent rocking toilets or leaks.
Hot water wait time is cheapest to fix during a remodel. If you’re already opening walls, it’s the best moment to improve hot water delivery to a far bathroom or kitchen sink.
A local Meridian angle: water quality and remodel longevity
In the Treasure Valley, many homeowners deal with mineral-heavy water that leaves scale on fixtures, inside water heaters, and on aerators and showerheads over time. During a remodel—when you’re already investing in new finishes—it can be a smart time to talk about protecting that investment with a whole-home softener or targeted filtration. If you’re noticing spots on glass, stiff faucets, or frequent aerator clogs, consider reviewing water softening and treatment options as part of your plan.
Also, permit requirements can apply when plumbing work is part of a remodel, especially when new fixtures are installed or plumbing is altered. A licensed plumbing contractor helps keep the process clean—from rough-in to final.
Planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel in Meridian?
Get the plumbing plan right before the walls close. Cloverdale Plumbing can help with remodel rough-ins, fixture installs, drain performance (including jetting), pipe repairs, and water heater or water quality upgrades.
Need urgent help during a remodel? Visit our 24/7 emergency plumbing page for fast support.
FAQ: Plumbing remodels (Meridian, Idaho)
Do I need a plumber if I’m not moving any fixtures?
If nothing moves and you’re simply swapping like-for-like fixtures, you might not need major plumbing changes. But it’s still smart to have a plumber evaluate shutoff valves, drain condition, and whether the new fixtures match the existing rough-in—especially in older homes or if you’ve had slow drains or leaks.
What is “rough-in plumbing” during a remodel?
Rough-in is the behind-the-wall phase where supply lines, drain lines, vents, valves, and stub-outs are placed before drywall, waterproofing, and tile. It’s also when clearances and exact locations are confirmed so cabinets, countertops, and fixtures install without surprises.
When should I schedule plumbing work for a bathroom remodel?
Ideally, schedule plumbing planning before cabinet orders and before framing is finalized. Rough-in typically happens after demo and framing changes but before insulation, drywall, waterproofing, and tile. Final fixture setting happens after finishes are ready.
My drains are slow—should I handle that before or after the remodel?
Before is usually better. Remodel activity increases water usage and debris risk, and the last thing you want is a backup while the space is half finished. Professional drain cleaning (and, when appropriate, hot water jetting) can improve reliability and reduce emergency calls during construction.
Should I replace my water heater during a remodel?
If your water heater is aging, undersized, or showing signs of leakage/corrosion, a remodel can be a convenient time to replace or upgrade. It’s also a good moment to add servicing access, update shutoffs, or improve hot water delivery to new fixtures. Learn more on our water heater installation page.
Glossary (helpful remodel terms)
Rough-in: The stage where supply, drain, and vent piping (plus valve locations) are installed before walls and finishes are closed.
Stub-out: A pipe end that “stubs out” of a wall or floor, ready to connect to a fixture (like a sink supply line).
P-trap: The curved section of drain pipe under a sink/shower that holds water to block sewer gas from entering your home.
Cleanout: A capped access point on a drain line that allows clearing clogs without removing fixtures.
Jetting (hot water jetting): High-pressure water cleaning used to remove buildup (grease, scale, roots, sediment) from drain and sewer lines.