Thinking about giving your bathroom a fresh new look? New tiles, a sleek vanity, maybe a luxury rainfall showerhead… sounds dreamy, right? But before you get too far into picking out color swatches and Pinterest worthy light fixtures, let’s talk about the real foundation of any successful bathroom remodel, your plumbing.
At Flawless Flows Mechanical, we’ve seen plenty of beautiful remodels hit a wall (literally and figuratively) because the plumbing side was an afterthought. And trust us, no amount of trendy tile will distract from a leaky pipe, slow drain, or lukewarm shower.
If you’re planning a bathroom remodel in Edmonton, Stony Plain, Spruce Grove, Sherwood Park, or Beaumont, here are the plumbing essentials you don’t want to ignore.
1. Think Beyond the Surface 🚿
Let’s start with a truth bomb: Most bathroom upgrades focus on aesthetics, not infrastructure. But bathrooms are water heavy spaces, and plumbing is what makes them work.
Before you start installing that freestanding tub or double vanity, ask:
- Are your pipes up to date?
- Is the water pressure consistent?
- Do you frequently experience clogs, leaks, or low flow?
Renovations are the perfect opportunity to inspect and upgrade the invisible systems behind the walls. You’re already tearing things apart, why not do it right the first time?
🛁 2. Rethink Fixture Placement (And Your Water Lines)
Sure, that wall mounted faucet looks amazing on Instagram, but does your current plumbing layout support it? Moving sinks, toilets, or tubs means reworking water supply lines and drainpipes, and that’s not a DIY job.
Some important considerations:
- Will the toilet be too far from the soil stack?
- Is your current water heater close enough to support a hot tub style soaker?
- Do your water lines need resizing for new high flow fixtures?
Working with licensed pros (hey, that’s us 👋) ensures your design won’t lead to future headaches or unexpected costs.
3. Replace Old Pipes While You Can Access Them 🔧
If your bathroom is more than 30 years old and you’re already opening up the walls or floor, this is your golden ticket to upgrade old pipes.
Common issues with older piping:
- Galvanized steel: Prone to corrosion and rust
- Polybutylene: A known failure risk, no longer used
- Copper with pinhole leaks: Indicates corrosion or pH imbalance
Modern materials like PEX or updated copper are durable, flexible, and freeze resistant ideal for Alberta winters.
Think of it as future proofing your remodel. You don’t want to install a stunning new floor just to rip it up next year due to a leak.
4. Don’t Forget the Venting System 💨
Drainage doesn’t just rely on gravity, vent pipes are a crucial (often overlooked) part of the equation. These allow air to enter the plumbing system so that water and waste can flow properly.
Poorly vented systems can lead to:
- Slow drains
- Gurgling noises
- Sewer gas odors
- Water siphoning from nearby traps (yuck)
During a remodel, you may need to adjust or reroute your venting, especially if you’re changing the layout.
5. Upgrade to Water Efficient Fixtures 🚽
Remodels are your chance to save money and water. Today’s high efficiency fixtures don’t just help the environment, they cut down your utility bills, too.
Here’s what to look for:
- Low flow toilets (with dual flush options)
- WaterSense certified showerheads and faucets
- Touchless or sensor activated faucets for hygiene and ease
Not only do these upgrades reduce water use, they add resale value to your home. Eco friendly is in.
6. Avoid Drainage Disasters 🚨
You’d be surprised how many remodels install fancy fixtures without checking whether the drainage system can keep up. What good is a waterfall shower if it floods your bathroom floor?
Key tips:
- Ensure your drainpipes are the correct diameter (especially for multiple fixtures)
- Replace old or clogged drains and traps
- Consider installing backwater valves in flood prone areas
Also, don’t skip the proper slope for your drains. Water needs a clear path out, preferably one that doesn’t involve pooling near your ankles.
7. Lighting and Outlets: Know the Code 💡
Okay, this one’s not technically plumbing, but it’s a partner in crime. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are a must in any bathroom. So are properly rated light fixtures and ventilation fans.
Remember:
- Moisture and electricity don’t mix
- Code compliant electrical work is just as important as watertight plumbing
- Proper lighting and fan placement reduces mold risk and improves longevity of fixtures
Your plumber should coordinate with your electrician, so everyone’s on the same page. (And again, hi, we can help with that.)
8. Don’t DIY the Big Stuff 🧰
Improper plumbing work can lead to:
- Mold growth
- Water damage
- Code violations
- Decreased home value
Hiring a licensed professional ensures your upgrades are:
- Up to Alberta building code
- Fully permitted and inspected
- Built to last and covered under warranty
Plus, we do clean up, too.
Plumbing Checklist for Your Bathroom Remodel 📝
Here’s a quick reference guide to help you plan:
| Plumbing Element | Must-Check? | Upgrade Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| Water supply lines | ✅ | If pipes are 30+ years |
| Drain pipes and traps | ✅ | If slow or smelly |
| Fixture relocation plans | ✅ | Always confirm feasibility |
| Venting system | ✅ | Especially in older homes |
| Shutoff valves | ✅ | Replace outdated valves |
| Water heater compatibility | ✅ | For larger tubs/showers |
| Code compliance | ✅ | Critical for resale |
Why Choose Flawless Flows Mechanical?
We’re not just your average plumbing company, we’re your remodel partner, helping turn dream bathrooms into functional, fabulous spaces.
What you get with us:
✅ Licensed & insured pros
✅ Transparent pricing (no hidden surprises)
✅ Expert advice during every step
✅ Top quality materials and craftsmanship
✅ Local service you can trust
We proudly serve Edmonton and surrounding area, and we love helping homeowners transform their spaces.
Let’s Make Your Dream Bathroom Work Like a Dream, Too
Before you finalize those renovation plans, loop in the experts. A well designed, properly plumbed bathroom isn’t just beautiful, it’s safe, efficient, and worry free.
Ready to get started?
📞 Call us today at 780-245-3569
📧 Email: info@ffmech.ca
🌐 Visit: https://flawlessflowsmechanical.com
Let’s make your bathroom the highlight of your home from behind the scenes, where it counts.