Remodeling the bathroom can be a simple or complicated chore depending on the type and amount of work you’re doing. A fresh coat of paint and some new fixtures is no big deal. But if you are gutting the bathroom and starting over, you’re taking on a much more complicated task. So much so that you might have to call a plumber.
There are certain plumbing concerns that come with bathroom remodels. Below are five of them. Utah’s Comfort Solutions reminds homeowners that it is always best to bring in professionals if your knowledge of plumbing is limited. Comfort Solutions plumbing services in West Haven and Sandy, Utah.
1. Permits and Inspections
The biggest concern is the first on our list because it needs to be addressed before any work is done. That concern is the need for permits and inspections. Some types of plumbing work don’t need local approval or inspection. But some does not mean all.
You could change the bathroom faucet without having to get a permit. Ditto for installing a new shower head. But if you are replacing the vanity, rerouting existing plumbing, or even replacing the tub with a model that requires plumbing changes, it’s likely your town or county requires a permit. Any and all permitted work must also be inspected upon completion.
2. System Upgrades
In-depth bathroom remodeling projects that ultimately expose older plumbing might dictate the need for system upgrades. For example, older pipes could be replaced with more durable and modern materials like PEX.
System upgrades are not always necessary. But when they make sense, it is wise to get them done while the plumbing is exposed. Trying to upgrade after everything has been put back together only makes the job harder.
3. Hidden Plumbing Problems
From a cost perspective, one of the biggest concerns in bathroom models is uncovering hidden plumbing problems during the demolition stage. Hidden problems need to be repaired before you can move on. And unfortunately, they almost always lead to cost overruns.
Some experts recommend building a buffer into your budget to account for repairing hidden problems. If no hidden problems are found, you have more money to spend on nicer fixtures, upgraded tiles, etc.
4. Water Efficiency
Remodeling the bathroom is a good reason to consider water efficiency. Fortunately, modern technology makes it possible to install water saving fixtures. Consider low-flow toilets, faucets, and shower heads. Dual-flush toilets and touchless faucets can also improve efficiency while adding a touch of class.
Just be sure to do some research before choosing efficient fixtures. Some don’t work as well as you might like, leaving you in a position of regretting your investment. You can avoid such regrets by reading online reviews, talking to friends and family members about their high-efficiency fixtures, and talking to team members at the local home improvement store.
5. Code Compliance
With this fifth and final concern, code compliance, we have come full circle. All plumbing work must comply with local codes regardless of how minor or major it might be. If the extent of your plumbing modifications goes no further then replacing a few fixtures, you should not have a problem. Fixtures sold at home improvement outlets should already be up to code. But for anything more extensive, be sure you know the code before you start.
Remodeling the bathroom raises concerns for the plumbing. Arm yourself with knowledge. If you don’t think you can do the work correctly, call in a plumber. It is better to pay for professional service than settling for a job that could potentially fail down the road.
