If you’re looking to redo your kitchen or bathroom, you may need to remodel more than just fixtures. Depending on how the original builders put it together, your plumbing system may also need reworking.
Plumbing remodeling can wind up being a costly endeavor. Plumbers are skilled tradesmen who undergo years of training but remodeling a bad plumbing job can take some time and effort even for a pro.
However, it doesn’t have to empty your pockets to get a quality plumbing remodel project completed. By being a little savvy, homeowners can reduce their contractor bills quite a bit.
If you want to learn how to save money during your next plumbing renovation, read on for more information.
Limit the scope to plumbing work only
If a plumber is required to complete an array of non-plumbing-related tasks, your final bill will likely be a lot more. If a professional is hired to perform a plumbing remodel, it’s best to limit their work to those tasks only.
For example, suppose you hire a plumber for bathroom renovations or a total rough-in. In that case, it’s best to avoid having them tackle other non-plumbing tasks such as clearing any of your personal belongings blocking the workspace.
Side jobs such as removing drywall or setting up temporary light fixtures may be required as it is, so it’s a good idea to limit unnecessary work as much as possible.
Make the working conditions comfortable
It’s important to keep in mind that plumbers should never charge you more money due to rougher working conditions. However, there are steps you can take to help your plumber work more efficiently.
For example, you can ensure that the work climate in your home is set at a reasonable temperature. Consider asking them what temperature makes them most comfortable to work in before they arrive.
Do your best to eliminate any distractions that may slow down your plumber’s work such as pets or children. If you have more than one usable bathroom in your home that isn’t being worked on by your plumber, consider allowing them to use it if needed.
Often, homeowners don’t allow their workers to use their bathrooms, which can drastically slow down the timeline of your project by forcing them to hunt down public restrooms elsewhere.
While it is up to you to decide who uses anything in your own home, and from a cleanliness standpoint, it is very understandable not wanting workers tracking dirt into your bathrooms. To prevent this you can remove floor mats and lay down a tarp instead. You can also replace your fancy towels with paper towels for the time being.
Reminding your plumber to keep things as clean as possible is not rude. After all, it is your home.
By doing all of these things, you can help your plumber work more efficiently and ensure your plumbing project is completed in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Schedule your remodel
When planning a plumbing remodel, it’s important to consider the costs associated with hiring a plumbing contractor versus calling in an emergency plumber.
While emergency plumbers are essential for time-sensitive issues like major leaks or burst pipes, scheduling work in advance with a plumber is usually less expensive for projects that are not of extreme urgency.
By working with a reputable plumbing contractor like Plumb-Tech, you can be confident that your remodeling project will be completed on time and within your set budget.
Many plumbing professionals do renovations, remodels, and emergency jobs, so it’s important to research when selecting a plumber. Look for professionals who have contract and remodeling work listed along with the emergency services they provide.
When talking to a plumber, be clear that you are not looking for an emergency job to avoid any incurring unnecessary costs.
Here at Plumb-Tech, we offer both emergency and scheduled plumbing work, so we always have you covered.
Consider DIY-ing a project
The best way to save money on a bathroom remodel plumbing project is to do some of the work yourself. When you take on your own plumbing projects, you only pay for the materials.
While you can save a bit of money by working solo, some jobs are too complex and potentially dangerous to handle on your own. Consider having a professional plumber do the complex portion of the work, and you can do the simpler portions.
By using materials such as push-fit couplings and PEX pipes, you can make DIY plumbing much more feasible.
These are simple to cut with a basic pipe cutter. They easily snap together with the couplings, and can make eight-inch bends. However, the upfront cost of plumbing tools and materials can be very expensive.
Adding some DIY to your process can not only save you money but is also a great way to get some hands-on experience and learn about the plumbing trade. However, unless you have prior experience with plumbing work, we strongly recommend consulting a plumber before taking on even the simplest of plumbing projects.
Choosing materials
Materials can make or break a plumbing project budget, and while it’s important to pick quality materials, that doesn’t mean they have to be the most expensive.
For example, choose PEX pipe over copper to save money. PEX is 60% cheaper than copper and it can last even longer than copper pipe. Talk to your plumber about using PEX over copper before they begin working.
Check with your plumber to see if they plan on using a lot of push-fit couplings. While they are great for small projects, they can significantly increase the cost of materials when used in large quantities.
If a DIY project sounds a little overwhelming, don’t worry. Call us to help you out with your plumbing and remodeling needs project.
Start remodeling
Now that you have a better understanding of how to save money on your remodeling project, it’s time to get to work!
For all of your plumbing or remodeling needs in the Missoula area, consider the pros Plumb-Tech. Our team has the knowledge and expertise to get your home projects done in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Contact Plumb-Tech today to get started!
