We get it, when you’re renovating there are a thousand and one tasks, each demanding your attention and it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking “a pipe is a pipe” in the interests of just getting it done.
We’re here today to tell you that that’s not the best strategy- your plumbing is every bit as important as any other aspect of your renovation. Not only are there costs to consider but practicalities and aesthetic concerns too.
Understanding Your Plumbing Needs
Before we can get into talking about how to choose the right piping and fittings, you’ll need to think about your plumbing needs in some detail.
First, it’s a good idea to take stock of what’s already there. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What kind of condition is your pipe-work in?
- How old is it?
- What’s it made of and does it work well with local water quality?
- Is it up to code?
- Is it in the right place to make my plans work?
The answers to all of these questions will help you plan out your renovations.
It often makes sense to overhaul an old or poorly performing system while carrying out other works as laying pipe can be quite invasive. This is especially true if your renovations include changing the location of bathrooms or kitchens.
Types of Plumbing Materials
Piping, fixtures and fittings all come in a baffling variety of materials, each with their own pros and cons.
Piping Materials
Which type of pipe is best for your situation depends on usage, aesthetics and what’s already there. The most common types are:
- Copper- until fairly recently, copper was the go-to choice for supply pipes in the home. It stands up to pressure well, it’s easy to cut and shape, doesn’t really corrode and doesn’t leach anything into your water.
On the downside, more modern plastics such as PEX have all these features turned up to 11.
- PEX – Also known as cross-linked Polyethylene, PEX is the current most commonly installed choice for supply pipes in the home. It’s flexible, cheap and it’s safe for both hot and cold water applications.
In the cons column, rodents seem to really enjoy chewing on it, some areas may have local rules against its use and it’s not suitable for use outside.
- PVC – Most modern waste systems are built of Polyvinyl Chloride (most often referred to as PVC). It’s solid, light, incredibly cheap and, as far as we know, lasts forever under normal usage.
Counting against it is the fact that it’s not great under pressure and it’s susceptible to damage from heat.
- Galvanised Steel – Until about 1960, galvanised steel was a common sight in US homes. It’s strong, resistant to corrosion and, unlike the lead that they replaced, they pose less in the way of health risks.
In terms of negatives associated with galvanised steel piping the most serious concern is that they’re prone to internal build-ups of impurities (which can present its own set of health risks) and hard to work with. Eventually, the galvanised coating will start to wear and you may find you’re facing discoloured and funny tasting water.
Fixtures Materials
From faucets to toilets, the fixtures are the most visible part of any plumbing system and if you’re going to the effort of a restoration, it’s worth giving them some serious thought.
- Brass – a popular choice for fittings like faucets and drains, brass is hard wearing, corrosion resistant and, because it’s so ubiquitous thanks to having been used for so long, easy to find a close match between fittings should you want to replace it in the future.
On the downside, it will dull over time and requires a fair amount of cleaning and maintenance to maintain its gorgeous looks. There’s also a chance that brass, being an alloy, might contain trace amounts of lead.
- Stainless Steel – The other option for faucets and fittings is stainless steel. This material is hard wearing, heat resistant, corrosion and rust resistant and very easy to maintain. It’s great for faucets and sinks alike.
If you’re going for a ‘classic’ feeling to your bathroom or kitchen, the polished chrome look might not fit.
- Porcelain – for a “premium” feeling in your bathroom, you can’t go wrong with porcelain for your sink, toilet or bath. It’s easy to clean and reassuringly heavy.
On the negative list, it’s prone to cracking.
- Plastics and Resins – There are a huge number of plastic and resin fixtures out there. In general they’re cheaper than porcelain and lighter, making them easier to install yourself.
On the downside, they can feel like a more “budget” option, though this isn’t always the case and they might well suit your particular refurb vision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Materials
As with any aspect of a renovation, which materials you choose for your plumbing comes down to a compromise between various factors. Things to keep in mind while making your choice include:
- Durability and Longevity: when you’re going to the effort of renovating you don’t want to find yourself having to start the process again a couple of years down the line
- Costs: Not only should you consider the up-front cost but it’s a good idea to think about maintenance and any long-term savings which may be available.
- Water quality and compatibility: Different areas have different types of water and this can have a big impact on which plumbing systems are suitable.
- Environmental impact: certain materials are better for the environment, either in how easy they are to recycle, how they’re produced or how long they last. These are all worth considering.
- Local codes and regulations: If you plan on insuring your renovated property, it’s vital to ensure that everything meets the local regulations.
Working With Professionals
While there are certainly plumbing jobs that a dedicated DIYer can do themselves, you can’t beat the knowledge and skills that a professional plumber can bring to a job.
Even if you just consult with them before undertaking a task you’ll bring insights into the best practices, newest trends and technologies.
Future-proofing Your Plumbing
Whichever materials you choose to use for your renovation, it’s always worth building in the ability to add to it over time as your needs change. Again, a professional plumber will be able to guide you here.
In the end, your choice of materials is just as important as your choice of paint or paper to a refurb. It’s definitely worth giving some real thought to.