If you’re thinking about starting a home renovation project, you probably know that most of your projects will involve plumbing work. There are a few plumbing tips you should know before you start your home renovation. Here are 5 plumber tips before you start the work.
Consult a professional plumber during the planning phase
If something goes wrong, you don’t want to have to call a plumber after you’ve started your renovation. Having the advice of a professional plumber early in your renovation planning can not only help prevent a plumbing problem you didn’t anticipate, but it can also help you more accurately estimate your renovation budget. And a plumber will have the best tools for a job that involves plumbing.
Take advantage of your work to have your plumbing inspected
A plumbing renovation is a good time to tackle other projects that involve plumbing. By hiring a professional plumber, you may discover that you have a hidden problem that is best addressed at the same time as the renovation. This may include repairing a leak, replacing gray or blue poly pipes that are prone to cracking, replacing fixtures to make them more conservative, installing basement waterproofing, or installing a flood prevention system.
Know where the plumbing accesses are
Before you start your renovation, you’ll want to know which walls already have access to plumbing. This is especially important in bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room renovations. Moving a sink or toilet to a different wall may not be as easy as you think. A plumber will tell you if you’ll need to install new plumbing. If you’re planning on tearing out a wall, you’ll also want to know if there’s plumbing running through it. Some walls may not have the obvious plumbing fixture, but instead be a wall where pipes run to and from the fixtures.
Choose the right plumbing products
Do your research on the various plumbing materials and fixtures before you buy. There are many options, and you’ll want to know the differences in maintenance, energy, and conservation, in addition to the various features available. Also, if you’re selecting parts, you’ll want to confirm that all fixtures will be available when the renovation begins.
Also, when selecting paint or installing a subfloor, make sure to get materials that are adequate to withstand moisture. Some areas, such as bathrooms, will need more moisture-resistant materials to reduce the risk of mold.
Stick to your budget for plumbing
When a renovation budget gets out of control, your crazy expenses like a rain shower or underfloor heating may need to be adjusted. Make room for the must-have renovations first, then consider the extras once you know your project is going according to plan.
