Summertime is finally here, and summer is a prime time of the year for home remodels, particularly kitchen remodels. And while new counters and cabinets are exciting and get all the hype, it’s important to pay attention to what’s going on behind the scenes. A kitchen remodel is the perfect time to do plumbing maintenance and upgrades.
Plumbing Lines
A kitchen without functional plumbing isn’t much of a kitchen at all, so, although it’s not nearly as fun as picking out the backsplash of your dreams, the plumbing should be one of the first things you consider when remodeling your kitchen. Depending on the extent of the remodel, you may need to move water lines and drains to accommodate a new kitchen layout. You’ll also want to be 100% aware of the location of all plumbing, so nothing gets damaged while things are being taken out and put back together. This is also a great time to consider upgrades like a pot-filler on the stove or a second sink inside your island to help with prep work!
Gas Lines
Gas appliances including ovens and ranges are very popular in kitchens, with most chefs preferring gas over electric. A kitchen remodel is the perfect time to have a plumber run new gas lines to upgrade from an electric stove because everything will be torn out and easily accessible. This is also a good time to move existing gas lines if you’re wanting to change up the layout of the kitchen. Additionally, just like with water lines, the location of the gas lines needs to be noted before the remodel takes place to ensure the existing lines are carefully protected. Even a small gas leak is a huge hazard, so it’s important to be extremely careful.
Appliance Upgrades and Installation
Your shabby old white appliances just aren’t going to cut in in your shiny new kitchen, and it’s time to upgrade your appliances with the rest of your kitchen. Depending on what you choose, almost all of your appliances will need a water or gas line run to them. Dishwashers will require both a supply line and waste line, while your new refrigerator probably needs a supply line for the water and ice dispenser. If you upgraded your stove, you may need a new gas line run or an existing line moved. Your beautiful new farmhouse sink will need both hot and cold supply lines, and you may want to use this opportunity to install a new garbage disposal.
When it comes time to remodel your kitchen, the plumbing should be one of your top priorities. While it’s behind the scenes and not terribly exciting, it’s incredibly important to the proper functioning of your kitchen.