According to recent surveys, remodeling a primary or secondary bathroom is one of the most requested renovations in the United States. Nearly 80 percent of renovation projects include a bathroom or are the sole objective of the project. The three main reasons homeowners cite for wanting a bathroom renovation are; a desire for luxury materials in the bathroom, leaking fixtures, and to increase the value of the property. The complexity of the projects vary greatly, but most benefit from the assistance of a professional plumbers.
Luxury Bathrooms
Luxury bathrooms are near the top of every homeowner?s wish list. Being able to step into a bath or shower that feels like a spa is an indulgence many people dream about. The definition of luxury is different for each person, but it often requires a total transformation of the bathroom. Some homeowners want to relocate their bathtub. Others want an expansive walk-in shower. Occasionally, walls will need to be removed and plumbing lines completely refigured to accommodate the new vision.
Leaking Fixtures
By some estimates, as many as 10 percent of homes have leaking fixtures which account for the loss of more than 90 gallons each day. Between leaks and inefficient components, many people are literally putting money down the drain. During a bathroom renovation, replacing an older model toilet with a low-flush toilet can save homeowners up to 18,000 gallons annually. When combined with the other low flow fixtures, and the elimination of leaks, savings add up quickly.
Property Value
Homeowners considering placing their home on the market are often interested in changes that will give them the biggest return on their investment. For most homes this means giving the kitchen or the bathroom a facelift. Minimal changes in either room can completely transform the look and feel of the entire house. Removing outdated tile, updating fixtures, and ensuring all plumbing is working optimally can greatly impress potential buyers. The fewer items the new owner will need to address after purchase, the greater the sale price can be.
When to Hire a Plumber
As soon as you decide to embark on a renovation project, especially one which will involve changes to the plumbing, it is best to consult a professional plumber. The only exception to this would be if you have extensive personal experience working with plumbing. There are many benefits to hiring a plumber. One of the most overlooked is the time and money you will actually save by hiring a professional to address renovation needs and even common household plumbing issues.
Many common plumbing emergencies occur from well-intentioned homeowners who think they will be able to renovate the plumbing in their home by themselves. All too frequently they will fail to connect a valve, install a toilet wrong, or seal the worksite poorly and then they are forced to pay for emergency plumbing services. An emergency plumber is far more expensive than hiring a plumber to complete renovation work from the beginning of the project.
Before beginning a new renovation project, even one that may seem small at first, take the time to consult a plumber. Estimates typically reveal a lower cost than anticipated by the homeowner, and the time saved by having the work done by a professional can be remarkable. While it will likely cost more than the initial estimate for completing the work yourself, it will almost certainly cost less in the long run.
