Why Installing a Basement Bathroom is a Job for the Professionals

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Installing a basement bathroom is one of the best investments a homeowner can make. Adding a basement bathroom will provide added convenience, while also increasing the overall value of the home. The catch – you’re only going to see these benefits if the job is done right, otherwise it will cause you more harm than good. Regardless of how handy you may think you are, installing a basement bathroom from scratch, or conducting major alterations to an existing bathroom is no easy task. There are many important things to consider and many complicated tasks involved that require special attention. Below are some key reasons why installing a basement bathroom is no easy undertaking, and why it should be left for the professionals.

It’s not a quick fix & you can’t rush it!

When installing a basement bathroom, it’s not as simple as framing a room, bolting down a toilet, installing a vanity and calling it a day – there are many variables to consider, way before you get to those final touches. You need to take your time and think every small detail through. This is especially true when it comes to piping and ventilation. Once your piping is sealed or covered by concrete and drywall, the last thing you want to do is have to rip it all apart and try again.

Takes lots of planning

To build on to the last point, you can’t rush a basement bathroom remodel. You need to go into it with a detailed plan for every step of the basement bathroom installation.

First you need to know your desired layout. Once you know where everything is going to sit – and only then – can you plan the required piping.  You need to know what pipes you’re going to need, where your pipe ventilation will go, how it will be routed into your existing ventilation system, and figure out the sloping necessary for proper drainage.

The Right Tools & Know-how

If you feel that you have your design and piping layout all figured out, and believe you can do a basement bathroom installation, you should make sure you have the right tools. Aside from the usual hammer, tape measure, and cordless drill, you will most likely need a miter saw, reciprocating saw, and even a pipe snapper. As well, you should make sure to follow industry standards for piping installation and make sure everything is to code. A professional plumber will know and follow these standards as second nature, though the average handyman may not be aware. If you don’t follow best practices there is a good chance your piping may vent improperly and cause odour to escape throughout the connected drains in your home. As well, if a home inspector feels that your plumbing is not up to code, you will have to repair all errors before proceeding. More often than not you’re better off letting the professionals handle the plumbing, and continue from there, or hire a contractor to finish all additional installations thereafter.

Most Common DIY Basement Bathroom Plumbing Mistakes

–          Not providing a vent for every trap

–          Installing the incorrect fittings

–          Drain piping and vent piping that’s not to grade / sloped improperly

–          Combining too many fixtures to a single vent pipe

 

Overall, installing a basement bathroom is a great addition to almost any home. Yet it takes a lot of planning, know-how and skill to successfully lay the necessary pipes and apply all finishing work in a basement bathroom.

If you’re considering installing a basement bathroom, make sure you pay careful attention to every detail, and plan accordingly. More often than not, we at A Marco Plumbing have to fix many individuals handyman work. Get it done right the first time, and enjoy a quality built basement bathroom quicker, and with less added expenses and less stress! Call us today at 905-619-9700 (Durham) or 416-972-6222 (Toronto).