Thinking About a Bathroom Remodel? Plumbing Red Flags to Check First

Planning a bathroom remodel is exciting. You're imagining new tile, modern fixtures, and a space that finally matches your style. But before you start tearing down walls or picking out that perfect vanity, there's something crucial you need to check first: your plumbing. Hidden plumbing problems can turn your dream renovation into a costly nightmare, adding thousands of dollars and weeks of delays to your project. The good news? Catching these issues early can save you major headaches down the road.

Don't let hidden plumbing problems derail your bathroom remodel. Call (509) 384-3116 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a pre-renovation plumbing inspection today.

Why Your Plumbing Matters Before You Remodel

Most homeowners in Spokane Valley and Post Falls focus on the fun parts of remodeling—choosing colors, layouts, and finishes. But your plumbing system is the foundation of your bathroom's functionality. If there are existing problems lurking behind your walls or under your floors, a remodel will expose them. At that point, you'll have no choice but to address them, often at a much higher cost than if you'd caught them beforehand.

Think of it this way: would you paint over a cracked wall without fixing the crack first? The same logic applies to plumbing. Starting your remodel with a clean bill of health for your pipes means fewer surprises, a smoother project timeline, and better long-term results.

Red Flag #1: Low Water Pressure

Have you noticed that your shower feels more like a drizzle than a downpour? Low water pressure is often one of the first signs of plumbing trouble. While it might seem like a minor annoyance, it can indicate several serious problems:

• Corroded pipes that have built up mineral deposits over time, restricting water flow
• Hidden leaks somewhere in your plumbing system that are diverting water before it reaches your fixtures
• Outdated galvanized pipes that are common in older Spokane County homes and prone to rust buildup

If you're planning to install new fixtures like a rainfall showerhead or body jets, low water pressure will prevent them from working properly. It's worth investigating the cause before you invest in upgrades that won't perform as expected.

Red Flag #2: Slow Drains or Frequent Clogs

Does water pool around your feet in the shower? Does your sink take forever to drain? Slow drains aren't just inconvenient—they're warning signs. A drain that consistently runs slow likely has a partial blockage, which can worsen over time and eventually lead to a complete backup.

Common causes include:

• Hair, soap scum, and debris buildup in the drainpipes
• Tree roots infiltrating older sewer lines (especially common in established neighborhoods)
• Deteriorating pipes that are developing internal damage

During a remodel, contractors will be moving fixtures and potentially rerouting drains. If your existing drain system is compromised, this is the time to replace those problem pipes rather than reconnecting new fixtures to failing infrastructure.

Red Flag #3: Water Stains or Discoloration

Take a close look at your bathroom ceiling, walls, and the floor around your toilet and vanity. See any yellow or brown stains? Bubbling paint? Warped flooring? These are clear indicators of water damage, which means there's been a leak at some point—or there still is one.

Water stains can signal multiple problems. You might have a leaky pipe behind the wall, a failing wax ring under your toilet, or even water seeping in from an upstairs bathroom. Before you cover everything up with new finishes, you need to identify and fix the source of the moisture. Otherwise, you're just hiding a problem that will continue to cause damage and could lead to mold growth.

Red Flag #4: Outdated or Corroded Pipes

If your home was built before 1970, there's a good chance you still have galvanized steel pipes. These pipes were standard for decades, but they have a significant downside: they corrode from the inside out. Over time, rust and mineral buildup narrow the pipe opening, reducing water pressure and increasing the risk of leaks.

Similarly, if you spot any exposed pipes in your basement or crawl space that show signs of corrosion, flaking, or rust, it's time for a closer inspection. Homes in greater Spokane County that rely on well water may experience faster pipe deterioration due to mineral content in the water.

Planning a bathroom plumbing upgrade? This is your opportunity to replace old pipes with modern materials like PEX or copper that will last for decades without these issues.

Red Flag #5: Weird Sounds When Water Runs

Plumbing shouldn't be loud. If you hear banging, rattling, or gurgling when you flush the toilet or drain the tub, something's not right. These noises can indicate:

• Water hammer, which occurs when pipes aren't properly secured and bang against framing when water shuts off suddenly
• Venting problems that prevent air from flowing properly through your drain system, creating suction and those gurgling sounds
• Partially blocked drains that force water to push through restricted spaces

These issues might seem minor, but they point to underlying problems with your plumbing system's design or condition. During a remodel, your plumber can address these concerns by adding proper pipe supports, fixing vent issues, or clearing blockages.

Red Flag #6: Frequent Toilet Running or Leaking

A toilet that runs constantly or requires jiggling to stop isn't just wasting water—it's costing you money on your utility bill. More importantly, it's a sign that internal components are failing. If you're keeping an old toilet during your remodel, you might be building around a problem that will need attention shortly after your beautiful new bathroom is complete.

Leaks around the base of the toilet are even more concerning. They often indicate a failed wax ring seal, which allows water to seep into your subfloor every time you flush. Over time, this causes wood rot and structural damage that can be expensive to repair.

Red Flag #7: Mold or Mildew You Can't Get Rid Of

You clean your bathroom regularly, but that mildew keeps coming back. Or maybe there's a musty smell that never quite goes away. Persistent mold and mildew growth often indicates excess moisture that's coming from somewhere other than normal shower use. You might have a hidden leak, poor ventilation, or moisture seeping through from another source.

Before your remodel, it's essential to identify why moisture is accumulating. Otherwise, your new bathroom materials—like drywall and flooring—will face the same issues, potentially ruining your fresh renovation within months.

What to Do Before Your Remodel

Now that you know what to look for, here's how to move forward:

1. Schedule a professional plumbing inspection to get a comprehensive assessment of your bathroom's plumbing condition
2. Document any issues your inspector finds and get estimates for repairs
3. Factor repair costs into your renovation budget so you're not caught off guard
4. Address critical problems before demolition begins to avoid project delays
5. Discuss your remodel plans with your plumber so they can suggest upgrades or improvements that make sense for your project

Taking these steps ensures your plumbing is renovation-ready and helps prevent unexpected costs during construction.

The Bottom Line: Prevention Beats Surprise

A bathroom remodel is a significant investment in your home's comfort and value. By identifying and addressing plumbing red flags before you start, you're protecting that investment and setting yourself up for a successful project. The few hundred dollars you spend on a pre-renovation inspection can easily save you thousands in surprise repairs and delays.

Remember, once your walls are opened up and fixtures are removed, any hidden problems will be impossible to ignore. It's much better to go into your remodel with your eyes wide open and a solid plan for addressing any issues.

Ready to Start Your Bathroom Remodel Right?

Don't let hidden plumbing problems turn your dream bathroom into a renovation disaster. The team at Raptor Rooter & Plumbing has helped countless homeowners in Spokane Valley, Post Falls, and throughout Spokane County prepare for successful remodels. We'll thoroughly inspect your bathroom plumbing, identify any concerns, and provide straightforward solutions that fit your timeline and budget.

Contact us at (509) 384-3116 or submit our online contact form to schedule your pre-renovation plumbing inspection today.