The conception, design, and planning phases of home remodels are all tremendously exciting - not to mention finally seeing the end result. However, the messy segments in-between can not only be disruptive to your family's day-to-day, but could potentially put a spotlight on otherwise unknown problems with your home's existing construction materials and infrastructure.
When considering a kitchen remodel or reimagining a bathroom, you'll need an expert's assistance for several reasons. As you may imagine, there are plenty of pitfalls it's best for a homeowner to avoid when approaching a bathroom or kitchen remodel.
Don't Install Cabinets Before the Sink
Because the pipe comes in through a specific location in the wall (unless you want to spend the money to change that), you should select a sink and surround that fits your area before making a decision about the type and style of cabinets you want. If you're using a cabinet installer, it's a good idea to involve them in the selection process.
Don't Force Mismatching Pipes or Fittings
As those with older homes will tell you, newer fixtures and fittings may not be completely compatible with your existing infrastructure. Whether due to previous contractors cutting corners or DIY work suffering from "good enough" syndrome, it's never a wise idea to force mismatched pipes or fittings during a remodel. The cost of correcting these issues may tack on a significant increase to your estimated costs. However, fixing the problem will save you from a potentially catastrophic plumbing disaster in the future - not to mention a red flag or two during a future home inspection.
Don't Install a Level Shower Floor
Any home remodel involving water or a drain should be sloped toward a central drainage area in the floor, but the important thing is to implement this at the masonry level, meaning the concrete beneath the shower needs to be properly sloped. Unfortunately, you'll find out very quickly if your DIY efforts were effective or not - you'll be standing in a few inches of water during your first shower and will need to redo the entire floor as a result.
Don't Forget to Ventilate
Especially in the humid Pacific Northwest, it's important to remember ventilation when planning a bathroom or kitchen remodel. Removing excess moisture from the room is essential to protecting against mold, mildew, and damage to construction materials as your house ages.
Moreover, it's important to ventilate your drains. Vents in drainage systems help trap and hold sewer gas so it doesn't leak into your property. This allows waste and water to flow properly through your pipes.
If you need help with your remodel plumbing, contact Pioneer Plumbing today!
