If you have started planning your own basement plumbing renovation, it can be a daunting experience. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton is here with a handy guide on what you can expect from the process, both during the planning stage and during installation. We're hoping this will help ease the tension and provide you with a bit more information as to how the job will get done.
Homeowners throughout Edmonton and its surrounding areas are installing new suites in their basements to maximize convenience and provide an additional source of income. You know you'll need new plumbing fixtures and a new plumbing system to handle all of that, but what does that process look like, you might ask? Our Edmonton plumbers have prepared 9 essential steps for a successful basement plumbing renovation. Edmonton homeowners can use this guide to better understand what is going to be required of them and the plumbing company they choose.
Moisture and Waterproofing
A thorough inspection of your basement is a good place to start. Alberta has challenging weather conditions, and these can take a toll on your home. You'll want to look for signs of moisture, such as mold, water stains, or efflorescence. Identify and fix any leaks that are occurring in your basement; it will be much easier to do this now before your basement bathroom is installed.
Hiring a team for a professional inspection can be a great option to start your renovation hassle-free. You may want to apply waterproofing solutions like sealants or membranes to prevent future leaks. You can also consider installing a floor drainage system or sump pump if necessary.
Obtaining Permits
The next step in your basement plumbing renovation or remodel should be researching and obtaining any necessary building permits. The City of Edmonton website has lots of resources to ensure that your renovation is up to code. Our team can always help with obtaining any plumbing permits to avoid any complications in the future. Most contractors can also obtain these permits for their trade.
Planning the Layout
Planning an efficient and functional space is an integral part of your basement plumbing renovation. Edmonton homeowners should plan where their sink, toilet, faucets, laundry appliances, bathtub and shower are going to go. This is your opportunity to create that perfect bathroom layout that provides ease of use and great aesthetics.
You'll need to account for any existing columns, beams, and natural lighting. That way, when you install a new shower, you'll know it is in the perfect place to maximize space. This will help you avoid costly renovations later down the road.
For full en-suites, you want to plan the layout for each specific space, from the new kitchen sink location to the placement of the tub. It's essential to know where everything is going so the bathroom plumbing can be installed quickly and efficiently.
Proper Drainage
You'll need to have a professional inspect your basement floor to check for the right degree of slope toward the drainage points. Having a perimeter basement drain installed may be necessary if you need to direct water away from your foundation efficiently and economically.
Another option is adding a backwater valve to prevent potential sewer backups. Proper drainage for your basement plumbing renovation will help you avoid potential water damage to your property.
We recommend an inspection of all below ground drainage because if any of it requires replacement the time to do it is now, before you’ve put in a beautiful basement.
Choosing Appropriate Materials
There are ways for homeowners to avoid potential issues with water damage and moisture damage, saving them money in the long run. You'll want to opt for materials that are resistant to moisture. Your drywall, flooring, framing materials, and insulation should all be resistant to moisture.
The same goes for choosing your paint for walls and ceilings. You'll want to choose options that are mold-resistant. This way, in the future, you won't need to upgrade to these materials.
Addressing HVAC
You should evaluate your HVAC system's current capacity. Knowing how well it performs now can help you make the right decisions about upgrading your system to handle your new space. New ductwork or an entirely new HVAC system may be needed to properly heat and cool your new space. You'll want to choose a trustworthy HVAC contractor to ensure the right choices are being made for your needs. There are specific HVAC requirements for legal basement suites, make sure to discuss this with your HVAC contractor.
Frame and Insulate
This step is essential to a smooth and successful basement plumbing renovation. Edmonton homeowners should choose pressure-treated lumber for their framing and install vapor barriers to prevent moisture damage from humidity. Using purpose-built insulation will also help ensure that there are no problems with mold or moisture damage. During this stage, it is also a good idea to plan and create an access point for future maintenance of your pipes and utilities.
Electrical Work
Consider the layout of your electrical outlets, lighting fixtures, fans, and specific power requirements. Always choose GFCI outlets for your bathroom to avoid any potential electrical or grounding issues. They are essential for any outlet near a water source. Look at upgrading your electrical panel as well to handle the increased load.
Final Inspection and Test
Conduct a final inspection to check that all of your electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are up to the highest standards and meet all required building codes. At this point, you will want to test all the fixtures, outlets, and appliances to ensure the installation was done correctly. Following these steps, you can transform your basement into an incredible living space.
Looking for a Reliable Plumbing Company for Your Basement Plumbing Renovation in Edmonton? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing!
We hope this guide helps you understand everything that will go into your basement plumbing renovation. Edmonton residents can trust the residential and commercial plumbing experts from Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton for all their plumbing needs. We'll remove all the hassle and stress from the experience with our reliable plumbing services.
If you don't have the right people on the job, it can be tough for homeowners to get the most value from their renovation. No amount of planning can overcome poor quality workmanship. You can rest easy knowing our Edmonton plumbers provide high-quality work and exceptional customer service on every project. From installing shower heads in your new bathroom to hooking up your new water heater, we have you covered.
We proudly serve Edmonton and the surrounding areas of Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove, Mill Woods, Fort Saskatchewan, Gold Bar, Terwillegar, and Stony Plain.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the Neighborly difference for yourself.
