Before a bathroom remodel, check the condition of the shut-off valves, supply lines, drain pipes, shower valve, and the floor and walls for hidden leak damage. Fixing plumbing problems while walls are open is far easier than tearing out new tile later.
Valves and Supply Lines
Old shut-off valves under sinks and behind toilets often stick or drip. A remodel is the ideal time to replace them with new quarter-turn valves. Rubber or plastic supply lines should be swapped for braided lines. It also helps to know where the bathroom’s water lines run before any walls are opened. If the house has older galvanized pipes, consider replacing the lines that feed the bathroom.
Drains and Venting
Slow drains before a remodel will still be slow after it. Have drains checked and cleared, and ask whether the bathroom is properly vented. If you plan to move the toilet, tub, or sink, the drain lines will need to move too, and that may require a permit.
Hidden Damage
- Soft spots in the floor around the toilet
- Stains on the ceiling below the bathroom
- Loose or cracked tiles near the tub or shower
- A musty smell from inside walls or cabinets
These signs mean water has already been getting where it should not, sometimes for years. The source should be found and fixed before new materials go in.
The Shower Valve
The valve inside the wall controls water flow and temperature. Older valves may not protect against sudden temperature changes. A remodel is a good time to install a pressure-balancing or thermostatic valve, which helps prevent scalding when someone flushes a toilet or runs a sink elsewhere in the house.
If you find signs of leaks before work begins, getting those leaks repaired first protects your new finishes. To plan the plumbing side of a remodel, you can walk through the project with a plumber by calling (833) 603-1840.