Carry out a home renovation? Remember to check your pipes

Home renovation projects are the ideal time to inspect pipes
Share this post

Renovating your home is an exciting, rewarding experience which allows you to refresh and customise your living space. Don’t worry, you haven’t accidentally stumbled onto a lifestyle website. This is still PipeRepair.co.uk. And we are here to explain how home renovation and pipes go hand-in-hand.

Plumbing is one of the most critical elements in the home. It is relied upon daily. Which means that whilst you are focusing on design aesthetics and functional upgrades, it is essential not to overlook the state of your pipe systems.

Whilst many renovation projects involve no intention of altering pipes within a home, damage can be a consequence of making alterations – especially if structural changes are taking place.

You may even decide that renovation is the perfect excuse to update your plumbing. In which case, it goes without saying you need your pipe systems checked during and after the project.

In this article, we will explore why checking your pipes is crucial during home renovations and provide some guidance on how to do so effectively.

Why check pipes during home renovation?

There are three main reasons why you should inspect pipes during home renovation projects – and a bonus fourth for those considering installing new plumbing or wanting to sell the property in the not-to-distant future.

Prevent costly repairs and water damage

Walls may be torn down. Floors lifted. Ceilings altered. Unexpected home renovation repairs are therefore part and parcel of any project as accidental damage is almost inevitable.

What this building work also does – other than risk damage – is expose old or worn pipes. Providing the perfect opportunity to inspect systems which have probably spent decades inaccessible for proper evaluation.

If the pipes are not in good condition, the risk of leaks, water damage or system failure increases. Spotting and addressing these issues when home renovation allows makes it less likely you will face unexpected and expensive repairs from previously unseen problems down the line.

Ensure proper water flow and drainage

Renovations often involve changes to the layout of your home, such as adding new bathrooms, kitchens or laundry rooms. The success of these changes depends on an efficient and functional plumbing system.

An outdated or inefficient pipe network can lead to slow drainage, low water pressure or even system backups. All of these issues will impact the enjoyment and functionality of your newly renovated space.

Ensure compliance with local building codes

Plumbing systems must meet specific standards and codes in most areas. If your pipes are old or not up to code, your renovation project could run into delays, fines or additional costs when an inspector finds discrepancies.

Updating your pipes can ensure your home is compliant with local regulations, such as the removal of outlawed lead pipework.

Increase property value

Buyers often place great value on updated plumbing, especially if it is clear the system has been thoroughly checked and is in good working order.

Upgrading or repairing old pipes during renovations can increase the value of your home and help avoid red flags during a future survey should you decide to sell.

Key pipework areas to inspect during home renovation

The following areas are the most important to inspect during home renovation for ensuring pipes are in good working order:

Examine pipes for corrosion

Older metal pipes such as galvanised steel can corrode over time. Internal corrosion will lead to blockages whilst exterior corrosion causes the surface of the pipe to weaken and become breached.

Corrosion may not always be visible on the surface. Signs like rust coloured water, low water pressure or the smell of iron can indicate deterioration.

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to replace corroded pipes before the issue develops into something more serious.

Check for Leaks

Leaks are one of the most common issues with plumbing systems. Inspect pipes in both visible and hidden areas (such as under sinks or behind walls) for any signs of leakage.

Dampness, mould and water stains are all indicators there may be a problem. If leaks are detected, repairing or replacing the affected pipes promptly is essential to avoid further damage.

Assess pipe size and configuration

During renovations, you may be altering the layout of your home. If you are adding new plumbing fixtures, check whether your existing pipes are large enough to handle the increased demand.

Oversized or undersized pipes can lead to poor water pressure or slow drainage. For example, upgrading from one bathroom to two may require a larger pipe diameter to accommodate the extra fixtures.

Inspect for proper ventilation

The plumbing system relies on proper venting to maintain air pressure and ensure smooth drainage. Clogged or improperly installed vents can cause slow drains, gurgling sounds and foul odours.

Ensure your home’s plumbing system has proper venting; especially if you are altering or adding new plumbing lines.

Check the sewer line

One of the most critical aspects of a home plumbing system is the sewer line. Tree roots and sediment build up are amongst the problems which can cause blockages or back-ups in older pipes.

Consider having your sewer line inspected with a camera during renovations to identify any potential issues before they become major problems.

Look for pipe insulation

If you live in an area prone to freezing temperatures, properly insulated pipes are crucial to prevent them from bursting in the winter.

Check during renovation if the pipes in your home are insulated; particularly those in unheated areas. If not, installing insulation can save you from dealing with frozen or broken pipes when cold weather hits.

What to Do If You Find Problems

If your inspection reveals issues with your pipes, it’s important to take action quickly. Here are a few common solutions:

Pipe replacement

If pipes are old, corroded or damaged, replacing them with new and robust materials like PVC, PEX or copper is a long-term solution.

This can prevent leaks occurring in future and improve overall water flow and pressure through your plumbing system.

Leak repairs

Most leaks can often be sealed with epoxy putty, waterproof pipe repair tape or a full pipe repair kit without needing to use a plumber.

If you are faced with a major or complex leak or do not feel confident making a repair yourself, then it is best to consult a professional.

Clearing blockages

For clogged pipes or drains, a professional plumber can use specialised tools to clear out debris. Hydro-jetting and snake augers are examples of methods used to restore proper drainage to a plumbing system.

Ventilation Improvements

If venting is inadequate, installing new vents or adjusting the system can improve airflow and prevent future problems.

DIY pipe repair or call a professional?

Some homeowners may be comfortable performing basic plumbing inspections or repairs themselves. An increasing range of DIY pipe repair products which are quick and straightforward to use makes this easier than ever.

However, for complex issues or large scale renovations it may be best to call in a professional to assist with the plumbing side of the project.

A professional can provide a thorough inspection, offer expert advice and ensure the work complies with local building codes and regulations. Plus, they can handle any unexpected issues that may arise during the renovation process.

Whether you go down the DIY route or hire some help, renovating your home is an excellent opportunity to check and upgrade your plumbing system.

Inspecting your pipes and addressing potential problems early helps prevent future headaches, improve water efficiency and increases the overall value of the property.

No matter if you are simply replacing a few fixtures or undertaking a large-scale renovation, make sure your plumbing system gets the attention it deserves.


Share this post

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*