Plumbing plays an integral role in your home’s functionality. It helps water move from one point to another, and a well-designed plumbing system isn’t just functional. It’s the backbone of a stylish, sustainable, and cost-efficient space.
While plumbing can seem daunting, understanding the basic plumbing concepts — whether or not you’re the one doing the full-scale kitchen renovation or bathroom fixture upgrade — will help your renovations go smoothly.
Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the basics of plumbing and make the most of your experience to save you time, money, and stress in the long run. When in doubt, visit a local plumbing showroom, like Immerse, or a plumbing supply store like Atlas, to complete your space with the help of professionals.
5 Plumbing Tips to Not Overlook When Remodeling
Plumbing is often overlooked in the design process, but it’s one of the most critical aspects of a successful kitchen or bathroom remodel. Beyond water flow, plumbing affects everything from functionality and comfort to energy efficiency. Avoid common pitfalls, ensure a smoother renovation, and create a space you love by understanding the plumbing essentials.
1. Plan your layout thoughtfully.
A good layout maximizes functionality while reducing costs. Before selecting products, review your space with a plumbing professional to identify potential challenges and limitations. This will help you avoid costly changes later. Changing the location of sinks, tubs, or toilets requires extensive plumbing rerouting, which can increase expenses. Instead of overhauling the entire system, work with your current layout whenever possible. For example, if you’re considering relocating a kitchen sink to the island, factor in additional costs for new water supply and drainage lines. By planning ahead, you can prioritize the most impactful changes while staying on budget.2. Select your materials carefully.
The materials you choose for your pipes and fixtures can make or break your plumbing system (and we do mean sometimes literally break it). Cheap materials might save you money initially, but they often lead to higher maintenance costs down the road. Plumbing materials vary by need and durability.- Pipes: Common materials include copper, PEX, and PVC. Each has pros and cons, depending on water quality, climate, and budget. Copper is durable and heat-resistant, PEX is flexible and affordable, while PVC is a lightweight and cost-effective choice for certain applications.
- Fixtures: Choose high-quality materials like stainless steel or brass for long-lasting performance in your kitchen plumbing fixtures or bath fixtures. These metals also retain their finish longer, providing a sleek look for years to come. Not sure what kitchen faucet is right for you? Check out our guide to choosing the best kitchen faucet.
3. Consider sustainability.
Modern plumbing products prioritize water conservation and energy efficiency. Look for fixtures with WaterSense or Energy Star certifications to reduce utility bills and your environmental footprint.
Additionally, look for other eco-friendly options including low-flow toilets and showerheads, bidets and washlets, or energy-efficient water heaters and recirculation systems where hot water is available on demand.
4. Balance style and functionality.
Fixtures and fittings come in various designs to match your aesthetic while offering practical features. Think about how they’ll be used daily. A sleek, modern faucet might look great, but does it offer the features you need for your family?
Touchless Faucets
Perfect for busy kitchens and bathrooms, touchless or voice-activated faucets enhance hygiene and convenience.
Water Purification
Enjoy clean, great-tasting water straight from the tap. These systems integrate seamlessly into your plumbing and are a must-have for health-conscious homeowners. Learn more in our blog about water filtration systems.
Shower Controls
Elevate your bathroom experience with luxury bathroom must-haves with spa-like settings that allow you to customize temperature, flow, and even lighting.
5. Partner with professionals.
While DIY projects might save money, plumbing is best left to licensed professionals to avoid costly mistakes. Expert guidance ensures everything is done safely and efficiently — from installing new fixtures to overhauling your entire system.
We collaborate closely with local contractors and designers to make sure the products you choose fit seamlessly into your home. We also partner with a wide variety of best-in-class brands, many of which are exclusive to Immerse and our showroom providing you access to the most fresh and relevant products available.
Explore with Confidence
Our kitchen and bath plumbing showroom in St. Louis is your one-stop destination for innovation, style, and expert advice. Invite your contractor or designer to join you, bring any questions, measurements, and ideas, and let our knowledgeable team guide you through the process of selecting the perfect plumbing solutions for your home.
Ready to get started? Visit our showroom today to explore our collection and bring your vision to life!
