A bathroom remodel involves more than just picking out new tiles and fixtures. Plumbing is the backbone of any successful renovation. If done poorly, even the most beautiful design from an expert plumber in Hayden, Idaho can lead to costly problems.

From upgrading old pipes to ensuring proper drainage, here are plumbing procedures that are critical to bathroom renovation or remodels. 

Plumbing: The Foundation of Any Bathroom Remodel

A functional bathroom is built on top of a strong plumbing system. Every fixture—sink, toilet, shower, or tub—relies on properly installed pipes and drains. Even minor mistakes can cause leaks, mold growth, or long-term water damage, which is why hiring a licensed plumber makes sense. Experts can ensure everything is installed correctly and meets building codes.

“Skipping professional plumbing work is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make,” says a contractor from a local plumbing company. “Poorly installed pipes or drains will cause problems, even if they look fine at first.”

Assessing Existing Plumbing: What Stays and What Goes?

Inspections must be conducted before walls or fixtures are removed from bathrooms. Outdated pipes, leaks, or inefficient layouts are identified during inspections, and these fixtures may need upgrades before new features are installed.

Signs that pipes need replacing include:

• Low water pressure – This could mean buildup or corrosion inside old pipes.
• Rust-colored water – A sign of deteriorating pipes that need replacing.
• Recurring leaks – Indicates that pipes or connections are failing.

If any of these issues are present, it’s best to upgrade bathroom plumbing before moving forward with your remodel.

Choosing the Right Pipes: Copper, PEX, or PVC?

The type of pipes used affects durability, flexibility, and water efficiency. Before buying a set of pipes, homeowners must know the pros and cons of each option to make sure that their purchase addresses their bathroom needs. 

• Copper pipes – Long-lasting, resistant to bacteria, but expensive and harder to install.
• PEX pipes – Flexible, easy to install, and resistant to freezing, but can’t be exposed to sunlight.
• PVC pipes – Affordable and corrosion-resistant but not suitable for hot water lines.

Most modern renovations use PEX because of its cost-effectiveness and flexibility. When choosing this type of pipe, be mindful of where you have it installed as it should not be left exposed to sunlight.

Upgrading Pipes and Rerouting for New Fixtures

Moving plumbing lines is especially important for bathroom remodels. Relocating toilets, showers, or sinks, and rerouting pipes ensures that everything will be lined up properly. Skipping these steps could lead to drainage issues and future leaks.

Plumbing upgrades may include:

• Replacing outdated or corroded pipes with durable materials.
• Installing larger pipes if water pressure needs improvement.
• Rerouting lines to fit a new bathroom layout.

Proper Fixture Installation: More Than Just Swapping Things Out

Plumbing issues can arise if plumbing connections aren’t done right. Installing fixtures is not just about aesthetics—everything needs to be aligned, drain correctly, and meet efficiency standards.

Key installation concerns:

• Sinks and vanities – Need proper drainage slope to prevent clogs.
• Toilets – Must be sealed properly to avoid leaks around the base.
• Showers and tubs – Require waterproof sealing and correct water pressure settings.

Checking Water Pressure: Will New Fixtures Work?

Multiple fixtures—like dual showerheads or larger tubs—affect water pressure. You need to make sure that your system can handle the added demand before the conclusion of the project. Otherwise, you may need to do improper installations, leading to wasted time and money.

How to check water pressure:

1. Attach a pressure gauge to an outdoor spigot.
2. Turn the water on full blast and read the PSI (pounds per square inch).
3. Compare the reading:
   • 40–60 PSI – Ideal range.
   • Below 40 PSI – Pressure might be too low for new fixtures.
   • Above 80 PSI – Too high, risking pipe damage.

Ensuring Proper Drain Location and Slope

Proper drainage prevents slow drains and standing water. Without the right slope, water won’t flow efficiently, leading to backups and odors. If all these sound confusing, hire plumbing services. A plumber can help you avoid long-term issues by keeping drain lines angled correctly.

• Shower and sink drains should have at least a 1/4-inch drop per foot for smooth water flow.
• Toilet drain placement must align with the existing or newly installed waste pipe.
• Vent pipes are crucial to maintaining proper air pressure and preventing slow drains.

Poor plumbing can turn bathroom remodels into a failed investment. If you want your new bathroom to function as beautifully as it looks, expert plumbing work is non-negotiable.