Pipes and fixtures can become damaged and outdated just like any other part of your Fresno home. Although it’s not always necessary to replace kitchen plumbing, it may be the best option in some cases. Not sure if your plumbing can benefit from an upgrade? As part of the planning process for your remodel, we’ll help you decide if it’s time to get rid of leaky pipes or vintage fixtures.
Kitchens have certainly changed a lot over the years. Once regarded as strictly utilitarian rooms, today’s kitchens are attractive and comfortable spaces that feature innovations that make preparing meals and entertaining easier and much more fun.
Not sure what features you’d like to include in your kitchen remodel? Take a little inspiration from your Fresno neighbors and add a few of these upgrades to your new kitchen.
Adding new plumbing will definitely increase your total remodeling costs, but upgraded plumbing and fixtures are often an essential part of remodeling. Wondering what you’ll pay for a kitchen remodel these days?
According to Remodeling.com’s Cost vs Value report, a major mid-range kitchen remodel costs $74,905 in the Fresno area, while a major upscale renovation costs $147,700. Your total cost may vary depending on the features, materials, fixtures, and appliances you select, and the amount of labor needed.
Overhauling your plumbing may be a good idea if you’re:
Lead pipes were outlawed by Congress in 1986, but unfortunately, many of these pipes are still in use in homes throughout California. Drinking water contaminated by lead can cause high blood pressure, kidney problems, and reproductive issues and may affect intellectual abilities in children, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. If you’re not sure which type of pipes you have, it’s a good idea to ask your plumber or renovator to check them out.
Kitchens, whether they’re 100 years old or just a few years old aren’t always designed with convenience in mind. If your kitchen has an inefficient layout or is just too small, gutting it and starting over may be the best option.
Gut remodels involve removing everything from the room, including fixtures, appliances, lighting, walls, ceilings, and floors. Once everything is out of the kitchen, the space is redesigned and built to meet current building code requirements.
During your gut remodel, you may want to swap your dishwasher and range or add a pot filler, garbage disposal, second dishwasher, or new refrigerator complete with icemaker and water dispenser. All these changes will involve relocating water and drain lines. Fortunately, it’s much easier to move plumbing lines when your remodeler has already taken the room down to the studs.
Updating your Fresno kitchen plumbing also makes it easier for future changes and renovations. For example, you may want to run a gas line to your cooktop in case you ever want to swap your electric cooktop for a gas one.
If you are thinking about replacing the plumbing in your kitchen, there are a few things you may want to consider before you start your project.
Personal Style and Desired Results: Replacing kitchen plumbing during a renovation is a big investment, so it may be wise to work with a professional interior designer and a qualified contractor to ensure that you create a kitchen that lives up to all of your expectations, and matches your style.
Your Budget for the Project: The amount of money you have to spend on a kitchen renovation or kitchen plumbing replacement will be a major factor for your project. The average cost for a minor kitchen remodel is about $40,000 – but this can vary quite a bit, based on the specifics of your project, the materials you use, and more.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: We highly recommend that you work with a professional plumber and home contractor to replace your kitchen plumbing. While there are many projects that homeowners can take on themselves, plumbing is not usually one of them.
Poor quality work can cause water damage, leaks, problems with appliances like fridges and dishwashers, and more. It may be tempting to attempt some DIY projects on your own if you’re handy and save a few bucks – but it’s not worth it in the long run.The best way to make sure your project goes smoothly and meets your expectations is to work with a qualified renovation company such as Imagine Remodeling. We can advise you throughout every step of the kitchen renovation process, and make sure you get the best possible results.
If you have older-style iron pipes running through your home, upgrading to a modern plumbing option like PVC is an excellent investment you can make when remodeling your kitchen. By upgrading, you will make it easier to maintain your plumbing and to reroute plumbing if you want your sink or appliances in a different location than they are now.
Many kitchen remodels include new fixtures and requirements that were not previously present. If you get the fridge with the ice maker, you'll need to run a water supply line to it. If you want to install a dishwasher or garbage disposal, you'll need to modify your plumbing. These are important considerations, so sit down and talk with your plumber to ensure that all of the necessary plumbing is in place for every kitchen enhancement you'll be making.
Have you been thinking about upgrading your plumbing on your own? While there are many types of projects homeowners can tackle, plumbing is usually not one of them. Amateur plumbing work can cause leaks and problems with appliances Unfortunately, you may end up spending much more on the project than you anticipated if a leaky pipe warps your new cork floor or your dishwasher malfunctions.
Replacing kitchen plumbing during a renovation is a big investment. Rather than attempting to do the work yourself, get in touch with us. Our design-build team will help you create an attractive, functional kitchen that lives up to your expectations and matches your style.