When should I call a plumber during a bathroom remodel?
Call the plumber before the tile, cabinets and fixture locations are final. I want the valve placement, drains, supply lines, fixture requirements and future access worked out before the wall closes. That's a lot easier than moving plumbing after the finish work is done.
What needs to be decided early?
A custom shower may include a main shower head, handheld sprayer, body sprays, a bench or a different drain location. Each choice affects where the plumbing goes and how the valve is arranged. The tub, vanity and toilet locations matter too.
I also look at what is already in the wall and whether the existing water supply can support the plan. A drawing can look simple until the wall opens and shows us what we actually have to work with.
Why do the fixture specifications matter?
The rough-in dimensions for a valve, freestanding tub, wall-mounted faucet or specialty drain are not all the same. I like to have the actual specifications before the work is covered. A late fixture change can move a connection just enough to cause expensive rework.
If a contractor is coordinating the job, I can work with the plan and handle the plumbing portion. The earlier the basic choices are settled, the cleaner the job usually goes.
Two more questions homeowners ask me
If this sounds familiar, let's talk it through.
If you're planning a custom shower or bathroom update, give me a call early and send the plans or a few photos. I can help make sure the plumbing side is thought through before the finish work begins.