I'm currently managing my grandparents' home, which was built back in 1958. My grandfather, a retired contractor, did all the repairs himself until he passed away in December 2024. Since then, we've dealt with some leaks—one in the bathroom and another in the basement where I'm also worried about possible water damage. The plumbing is still the original system, and a plumber recently suggested that we need a full plumbing remodel. I'm unsure what this entails. Would it require tearing down walls to replace pipes? Is it sensible to do cosmetic renovations alongside this work? My grandmother and I wanted to update the bathrooms anyway.
Additionally, what kind of plumber would handle a full plumbing remodel? If I want to update the aesthetics too, should I reach out to a contractor for that? Or could one contractor manage both aspects? Lastly, I want to be smart about budgeting for this; how much should I realistically expect to spend? I'm not DIY-ing this myself since I'm busy caring for my grandmother. Thanks for any advice!
1 Answer
It sounds like you're facing a bit of a dilemma! First off, the term 'full plumbing remodel' isn't commonly used; it's more likely your plumber was suggesting a thorough inspection of the plumbing system. In many cases, if there's a particular issue (like leaks), specific sections can be repaired or replaced without ripping out all the plumbing. I'd suggest asking your plumber for clarification on what exactly they mean by this remodel. Get details on which lines—water supply or drains—might need replacing based on their material and current condition.
Also, regarding the water damage, it might not even come from the plumbing but could be due to moisture outside. It’s wise to assess that separately to avoid unnecessary costs. Make sure to get a few quotes before committing to anything, and I suggest only doing what’s necessary and manageable, especially since you're already planning some cosmetic upgrades! Good luck!
Thanks for the insight! I thought it was a strange term too. So maybe just focus on what needs to be fixed rather than doing a complete overhaul of everything right away? Like sticking to the bathroom remodel and addressing any plumbing issues there?