If you’re interested in remodeling your kitchen or one of the bathrooms, it’s essential to carefully plan the remodel to stay within your budget. It’s a great idea to get your local certified plumber to inspect your plumbing to discover what’s lying under the surface. After all, most of the plumbing pipes will be exposed during the remodel, and this makes it an ideal time to repair or replace any damaged pipes or fixtures. Here are a couple of questions that you should ask your plumber about your plumbing system.
How Much of the Plumbing System Needs Replacement?
In an ideal world, all of the plumbing pipes will be in great shape, and your current system will easily mesh with the new additions or fixtures that you want to add. Many homeowners remodel to upgrade their kitchen or bathroom, and this includes adding those dream features that you always wanted or needed.
Unfortunately, this isn’t a typical situation, and it’s likely that your plumbing system will need some work to get it ready for the remodel. Some sections of the pipes may need to be repaired or even replaced due to damage, or they are out of date. These older plumbing systems may not be compatible with the new modern fixtures that you want in the remodel.
Replacing sections of pipe may be a cost effective alternative to a full replacement. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, but it’s worth asking your plumber if this is possible to help you stay within your remodeling budget.
What is the Best Plumbing Material to Use?
Copper is still one of the most common materials used for water pipes, and many homeowners prefer to use it when they remodel their kitchens or bathrooms. Because copper piping requires accurate soldering, it’s not a task that a typical DIY enthusiast should tackle. A professional local plumber will be needed to work with the copper piping if you want to get good quality workmanship and lasting results.
Another choice is to use PVC or PEX plastic water pipes that have many advantages over copper piping. These materials are more cost effective if you’re on a tighter remodeling budget because copper is relatively expensive, and the prices continue to rise. These types of pipes are code compliant, easy to work with, and they can be a better option in certain cases.
Many people have the mistaken belief that copper is more durable and long lasting than a PEX alternative. Under the right conditions, copper piping can last for 50-70 years, but copper pipes don’t resist corrosion well, and they can need more maintenance. A PEX water pipe can last for around 50 years, and it has none of the inherent problems associated with copper pipes.
In Conclusion
A remodeling project is a fun way to improve your home and add those dream features you always wanted. But, the plumbing infrastructure needs to be capable of supporting your vision, and a remodeling project is the ideal opportunity to get your plumbing system inspected. Finally, if you’re not sure about the material that you want to use for your water pipes, contact a
local certified plumber for expert help and advice.
By Giovanni Longo President Flood Brothers Plumbing
Giovanni Longo is a 3rd generation master plumber who has been practicing his craft and trade in the greater Los Angeles area for well over a decade and a half. A plumbing and hydraulics-engineering innovator, Giovanni’s particular world-class expertise focuses on dealing with challenging sewer system designs as well as resolving complex commercial and residential draining issues. As a certified Flood Mitigation expert, he is also well versed in a wide variety of water damage and remediation solution.
