While new tiles and vanities may steal the spotlight during a bathroom remodel, upgrading your plumbing is equally crucial to achieving the best results overall. Modern plumbing improvements ensure your bathroom operates efficiently, safely, and without hidden issues down the road that could cause problems later. Here are the most essential plumbing upgrades to consider during your remodel to enhance functionality and extend the lifespan of your fixtures.

1. Replace Old Pipes and Improve Drainage

If your home has aging galvanized or polybutylene pipes, it is time to replace them. These outdated materials are prone to corrosion, leaks, and bursts. Upgrading to PEX or copper piping offers better durability and performance. Along with this, consider upgrading your bathroom’s drain lines. Most older bathrooms use 1.5-inch drains that clog easily. Increasing this to a 2-inch drain can significantly improve water flow and reduce the chance of blockages, especially in high-traffic bathrooms.

2. Upgrade Shower Valves and Add Shut-Off Controls

A modern shower valve can significantly improve your shower experience. Thermostatic and pressure-balanced valves regulate water temperature and prevent sudden changes when other fixtures are used. While upgrading valves, it’s also smart to install individual shut-off valves for toilets, sinks, and showers. These give you precise control and simplify future maintenance or repairs without cutting off the entire home's water.

3. Install Water-Efficient Fixtures

Switching to low-flow fixtures is a win-win: you save water and reduce utility bills without sacrificing comfort or convenience. EPA WaterSense-certified faucets, showerheads, and toilets use at least 20% less water than traditional models, which helps protect our precious water resources. Modern designs ensure strong water pressure and reliable performance, making this upgrade practical, eco-friendly, and economically beneficial in the long run.

4. Add a Double Sink Setup

Sharing a bathroom becomes much more manageable with the installation of a double sink vanity. This upgrade allows two people to use the space simultaneously, significantly easing the morning rush. While it does require reworking plumbing lines and drainage, which may seem daunting, it’s a brilliant addition during a complete remodel when walls and plumbing are already being accessed, making the process smoother and more efficient for everyone involved.

5. Consider a Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater provides hot water on demand, meaning no more waiting or running out mid-shower, which can be incredibly frustrating. It’s compact, energy-efficient, and ideal for bathrooms with heavy use. Although the upfront cost is higher, the long-term energy savings and performance pay off significantly, especially in households with multiple bathrooms that require frequent hot water usage. By choosing a high-quality tankless system, homeowners can enjoy endless hot water without the hassle of traditional storage tanks.

Start Your Remodel with a Trusted Plumbing Partner

Upgrading your bathroom plumbing is an investment in comfort, safety, and home value. At Wilson Demo and Rehab, we bring 9 years of experience to every remodeling project across Omaha and Elk Horn, NE. Whether you're replacing old, worn-out pipes, installing modern, stylish fixtures, or reconfiguring your bathroom layout for better flow, we’re here to deliver quality service and peace of mind to our valued customers. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and get your bathroom remodel started correctly with our expert team.