A kitchen remodel is a great way to maximize the value of your home, but it does come with a few risks. The kitchen is a necessary hub for many utilities and the supply pipes that carry them. So, when you engage in any kitchen remodel, it’s important to protect those plumbing pipes and the other utility lines too. Let’s take a look at each utility supply in a little more detail and how they can affect your kitchen.
The Plumbing Lines
Let’s face it; without a supply of water, the modern kitchen is virtually useless. We need water for drinking, washing, cooking, and other tasks, and a compromised plumbing line can cause a great deal of water damage. Most modern kitchens have a plumbing line to the washer, dishwasher, fridge, sink, and garbage disposal. To make things even more complicated, the plumbing lines are also divided into hot and cold water supplies. Plumbing lines are easy to knock out of position during a kitchen remodel, and even an outright break can occur.
The Electric Supply
Every modern kitchen is filled with appliances and devices that need electrical energy to run. During a kitchen remodel, it’s important to learn where the power lines are located, and the outlets need to be working correctly. Another key factor is the kitchen lighting, one or two overhead lights will not cut it, and many choose multiple lighting systems. A modern kitchen may have recessed LED lights on the ceiling and directed lights at key working areas where good light is essential. If you have gas in your kitchen, great care needs to exercised to ensure that the electric and gas lines are kept separate.
The Gas Supply
If you already have pre-existing gas lines and your kitchen remodel is following the same basic layout, your gas lines may not need to be altered. If you’re adding gas to your home or are making radical changes, you will have to consider where the gas lines are going to be located. Many people are now switching to a gas powered stove for an improved cooking experience and/or to boost the value of their home. This can have a dramatic effect on the new kitchen layout, and the gas supply line needs to be protected during and after the remodel.
Choosing Professionals
Planning, installing, and protecting utility lines before and during a kitchen remodel can be a challenging experience. Many people want to save money on their kitchen remodel by using their DIY skills. This is admirable, but it’s not the best option when it comes to utility lines, and it’s a better idea to hire a professional. They have the skills, experience, and tools to install and move those lines safely. This will help the kitchen remodel to go smoothly and ensure that your lines are placed in the optimal locations.
Always hire a
local certified plumber to work on your plumbing system. This will ensure that the work is high quality and that your plumbing is protected.
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.
