Are you planning to remodel your kitchen in the near future? If so, you might have a general idea of what you want to do without knowing the specifics quite yet. Keep reading to get some ideas for how to make plumbing improvements that boost functionality during your kitchen remodel in Chesterfield.
What plumbing upgrades should you consider during a kitchen remodel?
During a kitchen remodel, it’s smart to upgrade your plumbing by replacing outdated pipes, adding under-sink shut-off valves, and improving water pressure. Ensuring proper drain slope and using modern materials like PEX or copper can improve performance and prevent costly issues down the line.
Then, give us a call to get on the schedule for your kitchen remodel. We can discuss your dream kitchen and then brainstorm the best ways to achieve your goals. You have so many options, and when you partner with the Performance Plumbing team, you can guarantee the best results!
Plan for Future Needs
Consider potential upgrades like a pot filler, water filtration system, or a larger sink to ensure your plumbing can handle future changes. The sky’s the limit when it comes to a remodel. Even if you have a need or desire and aren’t exactly sure how to fulfill it, just let us know what it is.
We can likely brainstorm and come up with a solution that helps meet your expectations. Adding in another new feature during a remodel will not be that much more expensive when we are already completing the overarching project as a whole. You’ll save money by making additional investments now rather than deciding later on that you want to change something.
Upgrade to Modern Pipes
Replace outdated galvanized or PVC pipes with durable PEX or copper for better water flow and longevity. Older piping materials can have a variety of problems. From corrosion to being too small, the older the pipes are, the more likely you are to have plumbing issues. While you’re completing a remodel, you may as well upgrade to new pipes as part of the project.
Even if you cannot repipe your entire home, you can repipe the section that connects to your kitchen so that the plumbing can meet the needs of your new and improved fixtures and appliances. Plus, modern pipes are designed to last longer with fewer issues. Upgrading now can save you the headache of having to do it a few years from now if your materials are already aging.
Ensure Proper Drain Slope
Prevent clogs and slow drainage by maintaining the correct pipe slope, typically ¼ inch per foot. We already mentioned some concerns the types of materials used in older plumbing setups. The way the system was installed may have been equally concerning.
Older plumbing installations may not be able to keep up with the demand of using kitchen plumbing the way we do today. When you get a fresh start, you can ensure that the drain slope is adequate for preventing slow drainage and even blockages.
Install Shut-Off Valves
Add an individual shut-off valve under the sink for quick access in case of leaks or repair needs. Your home already has a single main shut-off valve for turning off the water to your entire home. While you’re remodeling, you may want to go ahead and install an additional shut-off valve in your kitchen.
If something major happens in your kitchen, you can turn the water off to a single space instead of having to shut off the water to your entire home. This can help you maintain toilet and shower usability if an issue (like a major leak) is secluded to your kitchen. Then our team can assess that smaller problem while you still maintain plumbing usage through the rest of your home.
Optimize Water Pressure
We can also check and adjust water pressure based on new installations to prevent damage to your pipes and appliances while maintaining efficient water flow. Our team can also measure and optimize water pressure for your kitchen.
There is a just-right setting that helps to meet water pressure needs without making water flow so strong that it is at risk of damaging the pipes and other plumbing fixtures. If water pressure is too high, the extra strain on your pipes and appliances can cause them to wear down faster than average or even burst.
This means replacing those materials sooner than you may have planned to. When we visit your home for an annual plumbing maintenance following a kitchen remodel, we can test water pressure throughout your home to ensure that it is always optimized and that we address any pressure changes that are concerning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What future upgrades should I consider when planning kitchen plumbing during a remodel?
Answer: Think ahead about adding features like a pot filler, water filtration system, or a larger sink. Integrating these during your remodel is easier and more cost-effective than adding them later.
Question: Should I upgrade my old pipes during the remodel?
Answer: Yes. Replacing outdated galvanized or PVC pipes with modern PEX or copper improves water flow, longevity, and helps avoid future corrosion or size-related issues.
Question: Is it wise to install a shut-off valve under the sink?
Answer: Absolutely. Installing an individual shut-off valve under the sink allows you to isolate problems in the kitchen without needing to shut off the water to the entire home during leaks or repairs.
Question: Why should water pressure be adjusted after installing new fixtures?
Answer: New appliances and fixtures often change the demands on your plumbing. It’s important to check and optimize water pressure to protect your pipes and appliances while ensuring efficient flow.
Question: Can I repipe only the kitchen area instead of the whole house?
Answer: Yes. If full-home repiping isn’t possible, you can focus on upgrading only the plumbing segment that serves the kitchen, enhancing performance without the cost of replacing entire-house piping.
Contact Performance Plumbing today for a kitchen remodel in Chesterfield, MO today!