Plumbing Dos and Don’ts for Renovating a Bathroom

Bathroom renovations are one of the most exciting home improvement projects you can take on. A fresh design, modern fixtures, and improved functionality can completely transform your space. But behind every beautiful bathroom is one critical factor that homeowners often overlook: plumbing. Done right, plumbing provides a seamless foundation for your dream remodel. Done wrong, it can result in leaks, water damage, expensive repairs, and even major health concerns like mold growth.

At Professional Solutions of Atlanta, we know firsthand that bathroom remodels are more than tile and paint. They require careful attention to water supply lines, drainage, and fixture connections to ensure your bathroom not only looks great but functions properly for years to come. Whether you’re taking on a do-it-yourself renovation or hiring professionals, understanding the plumbing dos and don’ts will save you from headaches down the road.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• How to prepare for a bathroom remodel

• Common plumbing mistakes to avoid

• Best practices for installing sinks, showers, and toilets

• When to call in professional plumbing services

• Why investing in expert sewer cleaning services and drain cleaning in Atlanta is key to long-term success

Why Plumbing Is the Heart of Your Bathroom Remodel

While the final touches—vanities, mirrors, lighting—make a bathroom visually appealing, plumbing ensures it all works. Properly installed pipes, drains, and venting keep water flowing where it should and prevent unpleasant surprises like odors, slow drainage, or leaks inside the walls. Cutting corners here can ruin an otherwise flawless renovation.

Just imagine finishing your remodel only to discover your brand-new shower backs up or your toilet leaks. Repairing hidden plumbing issues often means tearing into new tile and drywall, which adds unexpected costs and delays. By prioritizing plumbing from the start, you protect your investment and ensure lasting comfort.

The Biggest Bathroom Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the Wrong Pipe Materials

Not all pipes are created equal. Homeowners sometimes choose PVC for everything because it’s inexpensive and easy to work with. While PVC is great for certain drain applications, it isn’t always the right choice. For example:

• Copper pipes handle heat and pressure better, making them ideal for hot water lines.

• PEX piping is flexible, durable, and increasingly popular for water supply lines.

Using the wrong materials for your remodel can lead to weak connections or early pipe failure.

Ignoring Drain Slope Requirements

Drain lines must be installed with the correct slope to allow wastewater to flow freely. Without the proper angle, water and waste can back up, creating foul odors and clogging issues.

This is where professional sewer cleaning services and expertise in pipe layout make a difference. DIY errors in slope are one of the most common reasons remodels fail plumbing inspections.

Skipping Venting Systems

Every drain in your bathroom—from the sink to the toilet—needs adequate venting. Without it, you’ll hear gurgling sounds, smell sewer gases, and experience slow-draining water. Venting ensures pressure stays balanced and water flows correctly.

Failing to Pressure Test

One of the simplest but most overlooked steps is testing for leaks before sealing walls and floors. By running water and checking every joint, you’ll catch minor issues before they become major problems hidden behind tile and drywall.

Plumbing Dos – Best Practices for a Smooth Remodel

Plan Your Layout Carefully

Whenever possible, align new fixtures with existing plumbing lines. Moving the toilet or shower to a different wall can require major rerouting of pipes, adding both cost and complexity.

Invest in Quality Materials

Don’t skimp on fittings, valves, or pipes. High-quality materials last longer, perform better, and reduce the likelihood of future leaks. For example:

• Use PEX piping for water supply lines where flexibility is needed.

• Install PVC drain pipes rated for your application.

• Consider brass or stainless-steel fittings for durability.

Vent All Fixtures

A well-vented plumbing system is critical. Vent pipes prevent airlocks in drains and protect your home from harmful sewer gases. Venting is often overlooked in DIY remodels, but professional plumbers never cut corners here.

Double-Check Connections

Tighten connections enough to stop leaks but avoid overtightening, which can crack fittings. Always perform a water test before closing up the project.

How to Plumb Bathroom Fixtures the Right Way

Sink Plumbing

• Align the sink drain with the tailpiece.

• Install a P-trap to block sewer gases.

• Vent the line properly to avoid gurgling drains.

• Run water to test for leaks before sealing the vanity or countertop.

Shower Plumbing

• Use PEX or copper supply lines depending on local codes.

• Ensure hot and cold supply lines are balanced for consistent water pressure.

• Test mixer valves before tiling.

• Install a properly sloped drain to prevent standing water.

Toilet Plumbing

• Secure the flange firmly to the subfloor.

• Install the wax ring correctly to prevent leaks.

• Align the toilet carefully and tighten bolts evenly.

• Confirm the drain slope is sufficient for smooth flushing.

DIY vs. Professional Plumbing Services

For homeowners with DIY skills, tasks like replacing a sink drain or swapping out faucets may be manageable. But when your project involves rerouting drain lines, relocating a toilet, or addressing water pressure issues, it’s time to bring in professional plumbing services.

Here’s why:

• Licensed plumbers ensure all work meets local building codes.

• They have the expertise to avoid mistakes that could cost thousands later.

• They can spot issues with your main sewer line or outdated pipes before you remodel, saving you from surprises.

At Professional Solutions of Atlanta, we provide comprehensive drain cleaning in Atlanta, along with expert sewer cleaning services that safeguard your home from clogs, leaks, and backflow issues. These preventive services are especially valuable before starting a remodel—ensuring your plumbing system is clear, efficient, and ready for new installations.

Why Drain and Sewer Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Remodel

Even the best remodel won’t shine if your drains are slow or your sewer line is clogged. Including sewer cleaning services and professional drain cleaning in Atlanta as part of your renovation plan ensures:

• Smooth drainage for showers, sinks, and toilets.

• No risk of odors creeping into your freshly renovated space.

• Protection against water damage caused by undetected blockages.

• Longer-lasting performance of your new fixtures.

Think of it as giving your plumbing system a clean slate before introducing new fixtures.

Get Your Bathroom Remodel Right with Professional Solutions of Atlanta

Bathroom remodels are exciting, but they come with challenges that go beyond design choices. By following the plumbing dos and don’ts, investing in high-quality materials, and knowing when to call the experts, you’ll enjoy a bathroom that looks beautiful and works flawlessly.

Don’t let poor plumbing turn your dream remodel into a costly redo. For expert guidance, reliable plumbing services, and trusted sewer cleaning services, call Professional Solutions of Atlanta. We’ll help you protect your investment and bring your bathroom vision to life—done right the first time.