Bathroom Renovation 101: How To Plan Your Plumbing Layout

A bathroom renovation project can be a worthwhile investment. The project may boost the overall value of your property if you plan on selling it in the future. 

For some homeowners, the main reason for a renovation is to give the bathroom a fresh look and transform it into a functional yet peaceful retreat. According to Statista, around 33 percent of homeowners renovate their bathrooms since they can't stand the old space, usually making changes to the layout. 

In fact, bathroom renovations involve planning the plumbing layout too. Unable to get the plumbing right from the start often leads to issues with the bathroom over the years. 

Once you're ready to push through with a renovation project, checking out reputable bathroom renovation companies would be a good starting point.  

If you want to ensure your bathroom renovation project starts on the right path, here are a number of pointers to remember to plan out the plumbing properly:

1. Be Familiar With The Local Plumbing Codes  

A common blunder among many homeowners is overlooking the plumbing when planning a bathroom renovation. The position of the essential elements, such as the toilet, sink, and shower, impacts the overall function and flow of the space. With this in mind, make it a priority to know your area's local plumbing codes and licensing during the planning process. 

If bathroom renovations are done right, all the basic fixtures are in the right positions and comply with the codes. Additionally, it greatly helps save time, effort, and resources.  

If you work with a professional plumber, you'll receive recommendations on how to avoid potential errors that may threaten the overall safety of your home.  

2. Determine Your Household’s Requirements  

While planning your bathroom renovation, it's crucial to discuss the requirements of your household. Remember that it influences the overall plumbing design. 

Most bathrooms have a toilet, sink, and bathtub, but depending on the amount of room available, you might want to add a shower.

If you have limited bathroom space, consider space-saving options such as a bath-shower combination. Getting a double-width sink that'll not take up much space is worth keeping in mind as well. A floating vanity may be worth considering to free up the floor space too. 

3. Scrutinize The Current Condition Of Your Bathroom  

Prior to designing the bathroom, it's best to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current conditions of your bathroom. 

Finding the shaft's location is usually the first step. Then, you should carefully examine the finishing and walls to decide which fixtures to keep and which to replace. Other elements to assess in your current bathroom include the flooring, layout, and functionality of the space.  

Then, determine if switching the current shutoff valves with new ones is necessary. In case the water pressure is low, consider adding a booster pump. If the pressure is high, go for the installation of a pressure-regulating valve. If there's an issue with the plumbing in your bathroom, it's one of the home repair jobs requiring timely action.  

When you carefully assess your bathroom's current status carefully, you can note down the necessary upgrades to ensure a successful project. 

4. Know The Plumbing Components In Your Bathroom 

Plumbing plays a key component in the overall functionality of your bathroom; major plumbing components include drains, vents, and waste lines. The main role of these plumbing fixtures is the removal of wastewater and transport to the municipal sewer system. 

Remember that every fixture has a distinct design and function. The drain line plays a key role as the main drainage system for the bathroom. It transports wastewater from all the bathroom fixtures to the main sewer line. During the renovation, the size and slope of the drain line will serve as a basis for how smoothly it functions. An incorrectly sized or sloped drain line can put your bathroom at risk for backflow and flooding.  

In addition, the waste line is significant since it accommodates solid waste from the toilet and directs it to the main sewer line. The line should be spacious enough to allow the unobstructed flow of waste your household produces. If it's too small, it runs the risk of causing backflow and blockages.  

Lastly, the vent line has several important roles. They include enabling the flow of air into the drainage system, preventing sewage gases from moving into your home, and equalizing the pressure to ensure the free flow of the drains. If the vent system isn't functioning properly, the drain will not work and flooding in your bathroom may occur.  

5. Create The Plumbing Layout   

Having a plan right from the start is important. Generally, it's the layout or how you position the essential bathroom fixtures to streamline the plumbing.  

The best way to ensure a good start is to decide on the location of the bathroom fixtures. Measure the distance from these fixtures so you'll know the required piping. The next consideration is to establish the drains' location and the main line supplying the water.  

If you need help creating the ideal bathroom layout, consider working with a professional bathroom contractor. 

Final Thoughts  

A bathroom renovation project may be a worthwhile venture. For many, it can boost the overall value of your home for selling in the future. Some want to maximize the functionality of the bathroom. Regardless of your reason, prioritizing your bathroom’s plumbing is important. Knowing these key plumbing considerations will ensure getting the functional bathroom you've always wanted.