When planning a bathroom remodel, most homeowners focus on design — tiles, vanities, lighting, and color schemes. But behind the walls and beneath the floor lies one of the most important aspects of any renovation: plumbing pipes. 🧰💧
Should you replace old pipes during your remodel? How much does it cost? Is it really necessary? Let’s break it all down.
🔎 Why Replacing Pipes Is Important During a Bathroom Renovation
If your home is older — especially if it was built before 1990 — your plumbing may be outdated, corroded, or close to failure. Remodeling is the perfect time to replace aging pipes and avoid future leaks, water damage, or expensive repairs.
Here’s why it’s worth considering:
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✅ Prevent hidden leaks and mold
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✅ Improve water pressure and flow
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✅ Increase home value and peace of mind
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✅ Ensure compatibility with modern fixtures
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✅ Avoid tearing up your new bathroom later
💡 Chicago homes built before the 1980s may still have galvanized steel or even lead pipes — both of which should be replaced.
🧰 Common Types of Bathroom Pipes
When updating your bathroom plumbing, these are the most commonly used materials:
| Pipe Type | Use | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| PEX | Water supply lines | Flexible, easy to install, affordable | Not UV-resistant |
| Copper | Water supply lines | Durable, resists bacteria | More expensive, needs soldering |
| PVC | Drain lines | Lightweight, low-cost, long-lasting | Not suitable for hot water lines |
| ABS | Drain, waste, vent lines | Stronger than PVC in cold weather | May not meet code in some areas |
🧠 Our team at Easy Remodeling can help determine the best pipe types based on your bathroom layout, budget, and local codes.
🔄 When Is Pipe Replacement Necessary?
You don’t always need to replace all the plumbing, but here are signs it might be time:
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🧱 You’re moving fixtures (sink, tub, toilet) to a new location
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🚰 You notice rusty water, low pressure, or slow drains
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⏳ Your plumbing is 30+ years old
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🔧 You’re already opening walls or floors during renovation
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💧 Past leaks, water damage, or corrosion issues
💬 If you’re remodeling your bathroom, it’s smart to do the hidden work while everything is accessible.
💸 How Much Does It Cost to Replace Pipes in a Bathroom?
The cost depends on the size of your bathroom, the type of pipes, labor, and how much needs to be replaced.
| Project Scope | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Replace visible pipes only | $500 – $1,500 |
| Replace all supply & drains | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Full plumbing overhaul | $5,000 – $10,000+ |
🔧 In Chicago, labor costs can vary based on building codes and accessibility — especially in older homes or condos.
⚠️ Don’t Forget Permits & Code Compliance
In Illinois, and especially in Chicago, plumbing work often requires permits and must be done by a licensed plumber to meet city codes. Avoid cutting corners — improper installations can lead to major issues later.
At Easy Remodeling, we work with experienced, licensed plumbers and handle all permits and inspections, ensuring your bathroom renovation is done right from the ground up. ✅
🚽 What Plumbing Fixtures Might Require New Pipes?
During your bathroom remodel, you may be replacing or relocating:
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🛁 Bathtub – Needs hot/cold supply lines and proper drainage
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🚿 Shower – May require updated mixing valves or waterproof piping
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🚽 Toilet – Often moved for layout optimization, needing new waste lines
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🧼 Sink or vanity – Especially if switching from a single to double sink
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🧯 Bathroom ventilation (if ducted through plumbing walls)
Each of these updates is an opportunity to improve flow, efficiency, and durability.
🛠️ Planning a Remodel? Start with Plumbing!
Before you install those beautiful new tiles or a luxury shower, make sure your plumbing system is solid. It’s the foundation of a successful remodel — and much easier to update when walls and floors are open.
📞 Contact Easy Remodeling today for a professional inspection and free estimate on your bathroom renovation in Chicago. We’ll help you determine whether your pipes need replacement — and make sure every detail is done to code.
