Bathroom Remodel Tips and Plumbing Considerations

Planning a bathroom renovation can be very exciting. From choosing light fixtures and tile designs to plumbing fixtures and more, all of the details might seem overwhelming. But it’s important to be mindful of your decisions during this stage, as every choice you make can save time, reduce costs, and prevent major headaches down the line.

Achieve the look and feel of the renovation you want by considering these bathroom remodel tips. Understanding your current plumbing restrictions and home plumbing basics ahead of time can help your bathroom plumbing remodel go off without a hitch.

What to Consider Before Starting a Bathroom Plumbing Remodel

Bathroom plumbing renovations are more than just swapping out a sink. Here are some tips for bathroom remodeling to think about before you start:

• Layout changes: Moving a toilet, sink, or shower? In most cases, that means rerouting plumbing, which adds time and cost.
• Permits and code: Many cities require permits for plumbing work. A licensed plumber ensures your remodel meets code.
• Fixture location: Keeping fixtures in the same spot is often cheaper. Relocating them can mean opening floors and walls.
• Water pressure and flow: Older plumbing may need upgrades to handle modern fixtures.
• Plumbing access: Consider how easy it will be to reach pipes for future maintenance.

• Materials: Porcelain, glass, metal—you have endless materials to choose from, all with a variety of durability and cost. 

• Features: You also might want to consider smart features for your appliances, like heated tiles or an auto-flushing toilet. There are many kinds of toilets, sinks, and showerheads to choose from.

• DIY or professional help: Sure, you might be able to tackle a small renovation on your own. However, bigger plumbing and bathroom remodeling projects will require the help of an experienced plumber.

Top Bathroom Remodel Tips That Impact Plumbing

If your bathroom remodel involves new plumbing, keep these tips in mind to avoid surprises behind the walls:

• Plan your plumbing layout before you demo anything.
• Always shut off the water supply before starting.
• Upgrade old pipes to modern materials like PEX or copper.
• Use shutoff valves for each fixture for easier maintenance.
• Check water pressure before installing new fixtures, especially if you’re going for low-flow showerheads.
• Account for slope and drainage, especially for showers.

How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?

If there’s one bathroom remodel and plumbing tip to take from this article, it’s that there’s no way to estimate what a bathroom remodel will cost without specific details. Costs vary wildly depending on whether you’re:

• Moving fixtures (like the toilet or tub)
• Replacing old or damaged pipes
• Installing water-saving or high-tech fixtures
• Repairing hidden water damage
• Upgrading plumbing for accessibility

You might be wondering—how much does plumbing cost for a bathroom remodel? Even that varies depending on where you live and the going rate for plumbing services.

The only way to know for sure what your bathroom remodel plumbing costs might be is to get estimates from local companies.

What to Know When Upgrading Bathroom Plumbing Fixtures

New bathroom fixtures do more than just look good. They can also help you in the following ways:

• They can help you conserve water throughout the bathroom.
• They can reduce wear and tear on pipes and septic or sewer systems.
• They can lower your energy bills.
• They can offer better temperature and pressure regulation.
• They can detect leaks and automatically shut off water if there’s a problem.

All these benefits are great, but one downside is that they may also require plumbing changes, especially if you’re upgrading older fixtures. Let’s talk about some of our favorite updates that we think are worth the hassle.

Pressure-Balanced vs. Thermostatic Shower Valves

Pressure-balanced valves are standard and control temperature by adjusting water pressure. They’re more common in older homes, and while they work well enough, they don’t allow you to control flow and temperature separately.

Thermostatic valves maintain a consistent temp, even if someone flushes the toilet. They’re the much better option for a modern bathroom because you’ll always have a powerful stream of hot water.

Learn more about the differences between pressure-balanced and thermostatic showers to choose the right option for you.

Smart, Stylish, or Specialty Faucets

You have a lot of faucet styles to choose from, including:

• Touchless faucets, which are ideal for hands-free use (great for kids or older adults).
• Waterfall spouts, which add a luxurious feel.
• LED-lit taps, which can make it easier to wash your hands at night.

However, for all of these modern faucets, you may need new wiring, filters, or plumbing changes. Also, not all countertops or sink cutouts will fit newer or specialty faucet bases.

Eco-Friendly Bathroom Remodeling Tips That Save Water and Energy

Going green? Use these eco-friendly bathroom remodeling tips to reduce water usage without sacrificing comfort:

• Install WaterSense-labeled faucets, toilets, and showerheads.
• Choose dual-flush toilets to save water.
• Add low-flow showerheads that still offer strong pressure.
• Consider a greywater system for flushing or irrigation.
• Pick motion-activated faucets to reduce water consumption while brushing teeth or shaving.
• Use natural and recycled materials, like recycled glass tiles in the shower, natural stone for countertops, and lightweight concrete flooring for bathrooms with radiant-floor heating.
• Put in larger windows and a skylight to make the most of natural lighting.
• Install a bidet to reduce toilet paper usage.

Should You Hire a Plumber for Your Bathroom Remodel?

If your remodel involves moving or replacing any plumbing, it’s smart to hire a professional. A licensed plumber ensures code compliance, avoids costly mistakes, and helps protect your investment, especially when dealing with wall cavities, drainage angles, or hidden leaks.

Use Our Bathroom Remodeling Tips So You Don’t Flush Your Remodel Budget

Even the most beautiful remodel can be ruined by poor plumbing. Before tearing out tiles, schedule a plumbing consultation with Roto-Rooter. We’ll help you avoid costly surprises, recommend efficient fixtures, and ensure your new bathroom is as functional as it is stylish. Book your appointment now.