Plumbing and Home Renovations: 5 Things to Consider

While it sometimes seems like a never-ending set of tasks, renovating a property is still a rewarding process that can set you up well for many years. By far, plumbing is one of the most important things to consider for any household renovation.

Whether you’re embarking on a kitchen overhaul or fulfilling the dream of a luxurious bathroom, plumbing considerations should always be at the forefront of your planning process. 

Why is it so important? Renovations are already costly, and the last thing you want is for leaks, best pipes or blocked drains to rear their head, especially when you’re ready to move in and use the space.

A well-thought-out plumbing strategy can make or break the success of your renovation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key considerations for plumbing during a renovation, focusing on both kitchen and bathroom transformations in Melbourne.

Getting a Professional Opinion

Renovations can sometimes be a battle between tasks you can achieve on your own, and others that require professional assistance. While you may be able to clean or paint the walls yourself, plumbing concerns are another thing entirely. This is particularly true if you’re changing the layout of kitchens and bathrooms, replacing/adding new fixtures, or installing hot water units.

If you’ve recently purchased a home and are planning to renovate, you will need to get the property’s plumbing system checked by a qualified professional. Of course, there may be issues that are clear as day, which you can then relay to the plumber when they visit. Leaking taps, damaged faucets, and blocked drains are a few examples.

What to Look for in a Renovation Plumber

Choosing the right plumber is just as important as getting the property thoroughly checked. Unless you already know a reliable plumber that you can trust, here are a few prerequisites to keep an eye out for:

• Licences and Accreditations
• Workmanship Guarantees
• Experience
• Well Rounded Expertise
• Upfront Quotes and Pricing
• Positive Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Putting your renovation in the hands of a professional plumber should give you peace of mind, and help to prevent any issues from surfacing further down the road. If issues are found during the first visit, you will also have someone that’s ready and able to find a solution. 

1. Assessing the Scope: Kitchen Renovations

Kitchen renovations often involve a complete overhaul of the existing space. The first critical step is to assess what needs to move. If you’re planning a significant transformation, consider consulting a professional plumber to handle the initial phase. Why? Moving plumbing fixtures requires significant expertise and insight. This will also minimise the chance of anything going wrong.

Professional Tip: Schedule a pre-remodel plumbing inspection with a professional to identify potential issues early on. This proactive approach allows for the creation of a preventative plan, preventing plumbing problems that could derail your kitchen remodel.

2. Water Shutdown and Rerouting: Kitchen Plumbing Basics

Before any plumbing work begins, start by getting the water supply shut off. Overall, this is a crucial step to ensuring a safe working environment. The water supply should be turned off outside, and individual fixtures must be isolated to prevent interference with the renovation.

Once the fixtures are removed, a professional plumber can reroute the plumbing or install new pipes. This process is also vital to accommodate the various demands of the new kitchen layout. Neglecting proper rerouting will lead to complications, such as discovering that your brand-new sink lacks a viable water source.

Professional Tip: If any pipes are damaged or unsuitable for reuse, contact a plumber to replace them with new pipes. This guarantees that your plumbing lines can handle the increased demand of a remodelled kitchen and prevent future headaches.

3. Minor Repairs and Additional Features: Tailoring Your Kitchen Space

For homeowners planning minor kitchen repairs or updates, getting a plumber to relocate specific fixtures may be sufficient. Dishwashers and sinks, however, are usually easy to move, and homeowners can handle the task themselves.

You can also consider adding extra features during the renovation. If upgrading plumbing fixtures, explore environmentally friendly options, such as water-saving faucets. Adding these features can enhance the functionality and sustainability of your kitchen.

Professional Tip: While minor repairs might be manageable for some homeowners, extensive plumbing work is best left to professionals. Hiring a plumber ensures a smoother remodelling project and minimises the risk of future plumbing issues.

4. Bathroom Renovations: 5 Critical Plumbing Points

Bathroom renovations, a long-held staple for many homeowners, bring their own set of challenges. Before you embark on transforming your bathroom, consider the following plumbing points to keep your budget on track.

a. Hidden vs. Exposed Plumbing: Aesthetic Considerations

Determine whether you want to leave plumbing exposed or hide it, depending on the bathroom style. Modern or minimalist bathrooms often conceal plumbing for a sleek appearance, while vintage or industrial styles may embrace exposed pipes.

b. Redesign Considerations: Collaborate with a Plumber Early On

If your renovation involves moving the bath, shower, toilet, or sink, consult with a plumber before finalising your design. Collaborating with a professional early in the process allows for a reassessment of the budget and design if necessary.

c. Permit Requirements: Navigate Regulations Smoothly

Check whether building and planning permits are needed, especially if internal walls are being moved. While bathroom renovations may not always require permits, it’s crucial to align with local regulations to avoid complications down the line.

d. Updated Drainage Diagram: Preventing Unforeseen Challenges

Obtain an up-to-date drainage diagram from your local council. This document showcases the location of plumbing and drainage, helping prevent accidental damage during the renovation. If pipes need relocation, updating the diagram ensures accuracy for future renovations or repairs.

e. Product Standards and Warranties: Quality Assurance

Ensure that your new fixtures meet Australian standards, a crucial aspect often indicated on the packaging. Additionally, check the warranties for your fixtures. Investing in quality items with longer warranties can save you from future headaches and repair costs.

Planning a Renovation in Melbourne? Turn to MCN Plumbing 

Remember, while minor repairs and fixture relocations may be within the capabilities of some homeowners, extensive plumbing work demands the expertise of professionals. Hiring a plumber for your renovation project not only guarantees a smooth process but also prevents potential issues that could arise in the future.

In collaboration with professionals and a well-thought-out home renovation plumbing strategy, your home can undergo a remarkable transformation, turning your renovation dreams into a reality. So, as you plan your next kitchen or bathroom renovation, turn to MCN Plumbing, Melbourne’s go to residential plumbers.