Common Plumbing Issues During a Home Renovation

The home remodeling season is fast approaching. Across the country, homeowners will be starting new renovation projects to upgrade their kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces. In many cases, though, people who start these projects will come across unexpected issues during demolition that will add on to the costs and necessities of the job. Plumbing issues are frequently among these unexpected issues that don't get noticed until the demolition process.

Here are just a few examples of some of the most common plumbing issues that pop up during home renovations.

Galvanized piping

Galvanized pipes are a type of steel water pipe that feature zinc coating, which helps to prevent rusting and deterioration of the material. These are common in older houses as they were a popular alternative to lead pipes until the 1960s. While most people know about the dangers associated with lead pipes, they are not as likely to know that galvanized pipes aren't a whole lot better. Many years of exposure to water results in the interior of the pipe starting to corrode, resulting in a potentially unhealthy amount of copper and zinc entering the drinking water.

Beyond the health risks, there are other issues with galvanized piping, including uneven water distribution, lower water pressure and a greater likelihood of leaks. In general, it's recommended you replace your piping if you come across galvanized pipes in the middle of a remodel.

Past bad plumbing mistakes

It might take you tearing away walls or cabinetry to notice some of the poor plumbing choices made by previous homeowners. This could be strange pipe arrangements, loose plumbing, or issues with inconsistent water pressure. It's highly recommended you fix these issues while you're in the middle of a remodel so you don't have to worry about the long-term effects these issues could have on your plumbing.

Sump pump problems

Before you start any home renovations, you should make sure you've checked out your sump pump and backflow. If you have a malfunctioning sump pump, there's always the risk your newly remodeled space could see some significant water damage after a big rain storm. Best to make sure your preventative measures are in good condition before you move ahead with the rest of the project.

Insufficient drainage

Insufficient drainage is a common reason why homeowners take on bathroom remodels in the first place. Often with either copper or cast iron drains there is corrosion and leaks that get through. If the bathroom is located upstairs, then eventually you could start having problems with leaks coming through the ceiling if the issue goes unresolved for long enough. It's important you take the necessary steps to resolve any drainage issues you have before proceeding with the rest of a bathroom remodel project.

If you're interested in learning more about some of the potential plumbing problems you might encounter with an upcoming remodeling project, we encourage you to contact us at PipeMasters today: info@pipemasters.ca or (289) 404-9063.

Pipemasters is part of Oakridge Plumbing Ontario Ltd. All Rights Reserved.