Signs Your Bathroom needs a Plumbing Upgrade (Before a Remodel)

Identify Plumbing Problems Early—Save Time and Money on Your Remodel

Planning a bathroom remodel? Before you pick out new tiles and fixtures, it's critical to assess your plumbing system. Many homeowners in Bloomington and Monroe County discover hidden plumbing problems during renovations—and catching them early can save thousands in emergency repairs later. Here are the key signs your bathroom needs a plumbing upgrade.

1. Low Water Pressure or Inconsistent Flow

If your shower feels like a trickle or water pressure fluctuates when you turn on the faucet, you likely have a plumbing issue. Low water pressure in the bathroom can indicate:

Corroded or mineral-clogged pipes – Common in older homes with galvanized steel pipes
Leaks in hidden supply lines – Water escaping before it reaches your fixtures
Undersized water lines – Especially if you're upgrading to larger fixtures

A professional plumbing inspection can identify the root cause. If you're planning a bathroom remodel anyway, this is the perfect time to replace old supply lines with modern, durable copper or PEX piping.

2. Persistent Leaks Under the Sink or Around Fixtures

Dripping faucets and leaky pipes aren't just annoying—they're a red flag. Even small leaks waste thousands of gallons annually and can lead to:

Water damage to subflooring and cabinets
Mold growth in hidden spaces
Structural damage over time

Before remodeling, have a licensed plumber inspect all connections. If you're seeing water stains or soft spots around the vanity, you definitely need a plumbing upgrade before new fixtures go in.

3. Slow or Clogged Drains

Slow drains in your bathroom sink, shower, or toilet suggest buildup or deeper blockages in your drainage system. This could mean:

Hair and soap buildup – Surface-level clogs (easy fix)
Tree roots invading sewer lines – Common in Bloomington's older neighborhoods
Deteriorating drain pipes – Especially in homes built before the 1980s
Improper slope or venting issues – Structural drainage problems

A camera scope inspection can reveal exactly what's happening inside your pipes. If you're upgrading your bathroom, ensure your drain system is up to code and functioning properly.

4. Discolored or Rusty Water

Brown, orange, or rusty-looking water coming from your bathroom faucets indicates corroded pipes. This is a serious concern because:

Galvanized steel pipes deteriorate over time – Especially in homes 40+ years old
Rust particles contaminate your water – Affecting water quality
Corrosion weakens pipes – Leading to leaks and burst pipes

If you're seeing discolored water, a full plumbing upgrade to modern piping (copper or PEX) should be part of your bathroom remodel plan.

5. Outdated or Failing Water Heater

Your bathroom's hot water depends on a functioning water heater. Signs you need an upgrade:

Water heater is 10+ years old
Inconsistent hot water temperature
Rust or corrosion on the tank
Strange noises from the water heater
Leaks around the base

If your water heater is aging, replacing it before your bathroom remodel ensures reliable hot water for showers and sinks. Consider a tankless water heater for modern efficiency and space savings.

6. Visible Mold, Mildew, or Water Damage

Mold and water stains on bathroom walls, ceilings, or under fixtures indicate moisture problems from:

Hidden leaks in walls or behind fixtures
Poor ventilation (separate issue, but often paired with plumbing problems)
Damaged or deteriorating pipes

Never cover up water damage with new drywall or tile. Address the plumbing issue first, or you'll be dealing with mold again within months.

7. Outdated Plumbing Code or Materials

Older homes in Monroe County may have plumbing that doesn't meet current building codes. Common issues include:

Polybutylene (PB) pipes – Used in the 1980s-90s, prone to failure
Galvanized steel – Corrodes and restricts water flow over time
Improper venting or slope – Causes drainage problems
Outdated fixtures – Water-wasting toilets and faucets

A bathroom remodel is the ideal time to bring your plumbing up to code with modern materials and efficient fixtures.

8. Frequent Plumbing Repairs

If you're calling a plumber every few months for different issues, it's a sign your plumbing system is failing. Rather than patch problems repeatedly, a comprehensive plumbing upgrade during your bathroom remodel addresses the root causes and prevents future emergencies.

What to Do: Get a Professional Plumbing Inspection

Before starting any bathroom remodel, schedule a plumbing inspection with a licensed plumber. They can:

Assess your current water supply and drainage systems
Identify hidden leaks or corrosion
Recommend necessary upgrades
Ensure your new fixtures will work with your existing plumbing (or what needs to be replaced)
Provide estimates for plumbing work

Why Choose Riverway for Your Bathroom Plumbing Upgrade?

At Riverway Plumbing & Mechanical, we specialize in comprehensive plumbing assessments and upgrades for homeowners throughout Bloomington, Ellettsville, Bedford, and Monroe County. Our licensed plumbers have the expertise to:

Perform thorough plumbing inspections and camera scope diagnostics
Replace outdated piping with modern, durable materials
Install water-efficient fixtures and water heater systems
Ensure all work meets current Indiana building codes
Coordinate with your bathroom remodeling contractor

We're committed to honest pricing and quality workmanship. Whether you need a minor upgrade or a complete plumbing overhaul, we'll help you plan the right solution for your home.

Ready to upgrade your bathroom plumbing?

Contact Riverway Plumbing & Mechanical today for a free consultation. Call us at (812) 327-8080 or request service online. We're available 24/7 for emergencies and offer flexible financing options for major upgrades.

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