The kitchen is one of the most critical rooms in the house for many people. Thus, a kitchen remodel or renovation requires careful planning. You can minimize your renovation budget without compromising on quality if you plan well. Below are some tips to help you renovate your kitchen and its plumbing system.
Draw Up a Plan
First, draw up a plan and have an exact layout of your new kitchen before the work begins. Determine whether you want to keep the existing layout or shake things up. Changing things halfway through the renovation might be difficult.
Specifically, you should know the location of:
- The kitchen sink
- The water supply lines
- The drain lines
- Any major appliances
Know where the major things will go even if you can’t come up with a definite plan. The kitchen sink, in particular, will affect other kitchen installations, such as cabinets and countertops. That is why many plumbers advise their clients to choose the sink first.
Maintain the Piping
Maintain the major plumbing layout, specifically the piping system, if you have a limited budget. Rerouting the drainage, water, and electrical lines will take a significant chunk out of your budget. If you keep the major installations (such as the kitchen sink) in the same position to maintain the piping, you’ll save money.
Of course, your overall renovation goal affects whether you should maintain the original layout. For example, you might have to reroute most of the lines if you plan to expand your kitchen’s square footage.
Know What to Replace
You don’t have to replace everything just because you want to renovate your kitchen. Evaluate the plumbing system to determine what you need to replace and what you can keep.
People renovate their plumbing systems for different reasons. Maybe you want:
- A new look for your kitchen
- An increase in kitchen capacity
- A more efficient kitchen plumbing system
Evaluate your reason for renovation and change only the things that help you achieve your goals. For example, you don’t have to change hidden water lines if you just want to improve your kitchen’s aesthetics. This evaluation will help you budget for the renovation.
Consider the Current Plumbing Codes
Ensure you incorporate the latest plumbing codes in your renovation, especially if your kitchen is relatively old. Plumbing codes change over the years, and a relatively old house is likely to be out of code. Kitchen plumbing codes regulate things like:
- The presence and location of the P-trap
- The sink vent’s location and size
- Piping materials
Again, you should know these things from the beginning to help you with planning and budgeting. Your plumber or local building department can help.
Determine If You Need Additions
A plumbing remodel does not always require the replacement of existing things. You might want to add installations or appliances that you don’t have but that can improve your kitchen. For example, you may decide to add:
- A garbage disposal
- A new dishwasher
- An ice maker
You may end up with a completely new kitchen that meets all your needs with the right additions.
Factor in Energy and Water Efficiency
Lastly, use your renovation opportunity to install water and energy-efficient appliances. For example, consider:
- Water-efficient faucets
- An energy-efficient garbage disposal
- An energy- and water-efficient dishwasher
- An energy-efficient refrigerator
Newer appliances tend to be more efficient than older ones in most cases. Efficient appliances and fixtures will help you save a considerable amount of money in the long term.
Spartan Plumbing Services has considerable experience with plumbing renovations, including kitchen renovations. We have been active in the plumbing industry for decades. Contact us to discuss your kitchen remodeling plans, and we will give you the kitchen you want.
