Doing a bathroom remodel can, at first, seem like an easy job. However, there are many possible plumbing issues that can come up during a bathroom remodel. Whether the goal is to avoid these or to make sure you are doing it correctly so you won’t have to go back and fix things later on after you’re done, there are certain questions to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel. To help you make sure everything goes smoothly and you don’t miss anything, we have compiled this list of the most important ones.
How can I help/be involved?
The most beneficial of these questions to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel is whether and how you can help or be involved in the remodel. Being involved in the bathroom remodel benefits you and the plumber. First, it allows you to monitor the plumber’s work and always know how things are going and whether everything is done the way you wanted it to. Second, your plumber doesn’t just get your help; he can also always be sure that he’s doing exactly what you wanted and that there won’t be any problems further down the line.
An example of what your plumber might say after you ask him this is that he might request that you remove everything that could be cluttering up the space from the bathroom. In this case, the best course of action is to find a storage unit you can rent in the short term. If you decide to move to another part of your home, it might cause issues in your day-to-day life. Professionals from experienced storage companies such as NYC Mini Storage advise you to ask your plumber whether he can recommend a specific storage unit. You can count on his experience and expertise considering this.
Will I require a construction permit?
Most states have different regulations regarding construction and home renovation. While you can use the online resources your state offers (usually presented as forms you must fill out), these can often be not comprehensive enough, especially if you have little knowledge on the subject. It simply is much easier to consider this one of the questions to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel. Keep in mind that you should do this even if you’re planning to DIY the renovation. Just have a plumber come by and do a kind of inspection for you.
Do my pipes need replacing?
A bathroom remodel is the perfect time to find any hidden leaks and outdated pipework in your bathroom. Fixing any of these faults requires ripping up flooring, tiles, and fixtures, which you’ll be doing during the remodel anyway. This is why you should use this opportunity for any of the questions to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel. For instance, if you are adding multiple shower heads and body sprays, you will most likely need bigger supply pipes that could support enough water flow. If you are renovating an older home, you should know that this is an even more important question to ask your plumber. Many of the older homes in America have improper unregulated pipes. These can cause leaks and problems for you in the future.
Do I have the means to incorporate water-saving measures?
You should definitely use this opportunity to improve how your home consumes water. There are many modern techniques and gadgets which can significantly benefit the way you use your water supply. Sadly, not everyone can incorporate these. That is why it is important to ask your plumber for advice on this topic. Some bathrooms and piping aren’t equipped for that kind of update. This is mostly true for apartments and older houses. But, if you can, you absolutely should take advantage of this opportunity. This can be a big payoff in the long term. Not only is it good for the environment but also your financial stability. After all, the smaller your water usage is, the less money you need for bills.
How much space do I need?
If your plan is an indefinite bathroom extension, and you have the means for it, you won’t have to worry about space that much. In the case that it isn’t, one of the questions to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel is how much space you need for every single fixture you want to include. If you would like a double vanity, you’ll probably have to dedicate an entire wall. This isn’t just because it needs to be long; it is also because you will have to use part of the wall underneath to connect and conceal drainage pipes.
Another thing to remember is that not everything can go everywhere in a bathroom. You have to ask your plumber whether some things are possible. As an example, a big shower might be able to fit in one corner of your bathroom, but your drainage pipes and supply pipes cannot be connected over there.
If you did decide to rent short-term storage during the remodel, you should know your items are protected while it is going on. However, it might also be wise to extend the renting period a bit more. This is so you can have time to measure the size of your bathroom. Then you can see if some things are even worth bringing back. Of course, you should remember that there are questions to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel that go beyond this list. Anything you might be unsure of, you can ask your plumber.
Is my hot water supply sufficient?
You should keep your hot water supply in mind if you plan to install certain fixtures requiring more hot water, such as a soaking tub. This is a crucial question to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel because if you get this wrong, your house will not have enough hot water for living purposes. We sometimes forget how much hot water we use on a day-to-day basis – everything from washing machines to showers and baths in a tub to washing your face with warm water every morning. Don’t worry if your plumber says you currently don’t have enough hot water or a strong boiler. You can always ask for advice on how to increase the supply.
What are the latest smart home technologies that can be integrated during my bathroom remodel?
Technological advancements have made integrating smart home features into your bathroom increasingly popular. Ask your plumber about the possibility of installing smart showers, faucets, and toilets. These devices can control temperature, track water usage, and even analyze health metrics through waste. For instance, certain high-tech toilets can monitor nutrient levels and provide dietary recommendations. Including these features not only enhances convenience and functionality but also elevates the overall experience of your bathroom.
How can I ensure my remodel is environmentally friendly?
Discuss installing systems and fixtures that contribute to environmental sustainability with your plumber. Consider incorporating greywater systems, which reuse water from sinks and showers to flush toilets or water gardens. Another option is on-demand water heaters, which heat water instantly as needed, conserving energy and reducing utility bills. These installations not only help reduce your environmental footprint but also promote long-term savings.
Are there new materials or methods that could improve the longevity and sustainability of my plumbing?
Ask about the latest durable and eco-friendly materials that could enhance the sustainability of your plumbing. For example, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping is increasingly favored over traditional materials like copper due to its flexibility, resistance to corrosion, and reduced likelihood of leaks. Discussing these options with your plumber can lead to more efficient water use and fewer maintenance issues.
How can the layout of my bathroom be optimized for aging-in-place?
If you anticipate staying in your home into your later years, consider making your bathroom more accessible. Discuss with your plumber the installation of walk-in showers, higher toilets, and strategically placed grab bars to ensure safety and comfort as mobility decreases. These features make the bathroom more usable for all ages and add to the resale value of your home by making it appealing to a broader audience.
Can my existing plumbing system handle the increased load from new fixtures?
Before adding new fixtures, such as multiple showers or a luxurious soaking tub, verify that your current plumbing system can handle the increased demand. Your plumber can assess whether your system requires supply lines or drainage upgrades to accommodate these changes efficiently. Ensuring your plumbing can support these additions is crucial for avoiding issues post-remodel.
Don’t be afraid of any questions to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel which you come up with
Remember that these are only a few most important questions to ask your plumber before a bathroom remodel. Anything else which might come to mind or worry you, make sure to ask freely right away. There is absolutely no reason for shyness or embarrassment for not knowing something. After all, this is your plumber’s job, and skipping on any questions now will only be a problem later. A bathroom remodel is only worth it if you know you won’t have to do one again for a while.
