What to Check Before Starting a Bathroom Renovation

A bathroom renovation can be an exciting way to improve your home, but there are plenty of practical details to consider before work begins.

While the finished tiles, fixtures and fittings are often the most visible parts of a renovation, the plumbing and services behind the walls and under the floor are just as important.

Planning these elements early can help avoid unnecessary changes, delays and additional costs during the renovation.

Think About the Layout First

Before choosing fixtures and finishes, consider how you want the bathroom to function.

Think about the location of the shower, toilet, vanity, bath and other fixtures, as well as how the space will be used day to day.

Changing the location of plumbing fixtures can sometimes involve additional plumbing work, so it is worth considering the layout before construction begins.

Check the Existing Plumbing

A renovation is often a good opportunity to inspect the existing plumbing.

Older pipework, deteriorated connections or drainage issues may not be obvious when the bathroom is fully finished.

If walls or flooring are being opened during a renovation, it may be worth assessing the condition of the existing plumbing and addressing any issues while access is available.

Consider Your Drainage

Drainage is an important part of any bathroom renovation.

The position and condition of existing wastes and drainage connections need to be considered when planning the new layout.

Poor drainage can contribute to slow-flowing wastes, unpleasant smells and other plumbing problems.

Making sure the drainage has been properly considered before installation can help avoid problems later.

Choose Your Fixtures Early

Choosing your toilet, vanity, shower, bath and other fixtures early can make the renovation process much easier.

Different fixtures can have different plumbing requirements, dimensions and connection points.

Having the final selections confirmed allows the plumbing and other trades to plan the installation around the actual products being used.

Think About Hot Water

If you're changing the location or number of bathroom fixtures, consider how this may affect your hot water system.

Your plumber can help assess the existing system and determine whether the current hot water arrangement is suitable for the renovated bathroom.

This is particularly important if you're adding or significantly changing showers, baths or other hot water fixtures.

Don't Overlook Waterproofing

Waterproofing is an important part of a bathroom renovation.

The waterproofing system needs to be properly planned around wet areas, penetrations and fixtures to help protect the building from moisture.

Plumbing penetrations and fixtures should also be installed with the overall waterproofing system in mind.

Plan the Plumbing Before the Finishes

Tiles, cabinetry and fixtures are the parts of a bathroom renovation that are easiest to see, but the plumbing needs to be planned before these finishes are installed.

Getting the plumbing locations right before walls and floors are closed up can help avoid having to make changes later.

A clear plan between the homeowner, plumber and other trades can make the renovation process much smoother.

Consider the Final Fit-Off

The final stage of a bathroom renovation involves installing and connecting many of the fixtures and fittings.

This can include toilets, taps, basins, shower fittings and other plumbing fixtures.

Having the fixtures selected and available when required can help keep the renovation moving and reduce delays.

Get the Plumbing Work Planned Early

One of the easiest ways to avoid problems during a renovation is to involve the plumber early in the planning process.

Discussing the proposed layout, fixtures, drainage and plumbing requirements before work begins gives everyone a clearer understanding of what is involved.

At Balanced Plumbing and Roofing, our contractor licence covers kitchen, bathroom and laundry renovation work. We provide renovation plumbing, fixture installation and final fit-off services across Port Macquarie and the surrounding Mid North Coast.

If you're planning a bathroom renovation and need help with the plumbing, contact Balanced Plumbing and Roofing to discuss your project.