Bathroom Remodeling

The Plumbing Side of Bathroom Remodeling

A beautiful bathroom remodel is only as good as the plumbing behind it. Whether you’re working with a general contractor or tackling a DIY project, getting the plumbing right is essential — and getting it wrong is expensive to fix.

Acme Plumbing & Heating has been the plumbing partner for bathroom renovations throughout Portland since 2008. We work with homeowners, contractors, and designers to make sure the plumbing supports your vision.

Our Bathroom Plumbing Services

Fixture Installation

We install all bathroom fixtures:

• Toilets — Standard, comfort height, wall-mounted, smart toilets
• Sinks — Pedestal, undermount, vessel, wall-hung
• Faucets — Single-handle, widespread, wall-mount
• Showers — Standard, rain heads, body sprays, steam showers
• Bathtubs — Alcove, freestanding, soaking tubs, jetted tubs
• Bidets — Standalone or integrated bidet seats

We can install fixtures you’ve purchased or help you select options that fit your budget and style.

Rough-In Plumbing

Planning to move fixtures or add a bathroom? We handle all rough-in work:

• Supply line installation and relocation
• Drain and vent pipe routing
• Valve placement for future access
• Code-compliant installation
• Coordination with other trades

Good rough-in work is invisible when the project is done — but it determines whether everything works properly for decades to come.

Shower and Tub Replacement

Upgrading your shower or tub involves more than just swapping fixtures:

• Valve replacement — Old valves may not work with new fixtures
• Drain relocation — If changing tub/shower footprint
• Water line sizing — Ensure adequate flow for new fixtures
• Proper waterproofing — Critical to prevent mold and damage

We coordinate with your tile contractor or GC to ensure proper sequencing.

Accessibility Modifications

Making a bathroom safer and more accessible:

• Grab bar installation (properly anchored)
• Walk-in tub or curbless shower conversion
• Comfort-height toilets
• Handheld shower heads with slide bars
• Lever-handle faucets

These modifications help aging-in-place and can be done as standalone projects or as part of a larger remodel.

Working With Your Contractor

If you have a general contractor leading your remodel, we work seamlessly with their team:

• Attend planning meetings as needed
• Coordinate scheduling with other trades
• Handle permits and inspections
• Communicate directly with GC on progress

Many Portland contractors know us and request that homeowners use us for plumbing — we have a reputation for showing up on time and doing clean work.

What Homeowners Often Overlook

Valve Access

New fixtures need accessible shutoff valves. We ensure you can turn off water to individual fixtures without shutting down the whole house.

Proper Venting

Every drain needs a vent to function properly. If you’re adding fixtures or moving drains, venting must be addressed. Improper venting causes slow drains, gurgling, and sewer gas odors.

Water Pressure Considerations

Multiple shower heads, body sprays, or filling a large soaking tub quickly — these require adequate water pressure and flow. We can assess whether your system can support your plans.

Future Maintenance

We install fixtures so they can be serviced later. Cartridges wear out, supply lines need replacement, drains need cleaning. Poor installation makes future repairs difficult and expensive.

Bathroom Plumbing Costs

Plumbing typically represents 15-25% of a bathroom remodel budget. Costs depend on:

• Scope of work — Simple fixture swap vs. complete reconfiguration
• Fixture quality — Basic vs. luxury fixtures
• Existing conditions — Older homes may need additional work
• Permit requirements — Significant changes require permits

We provide detailed estimates so you can plan your budget accurately.

Planning Your Remodel

Before You Start

1. Check your water heater — Can it handle a larger tub or additional shower?
2. Know your pipe material — Older galvanized pipes may need attention
3. Consider timing — Plumbing rough-in happens early in the project
4. Budget for the unexpected — Opening walls sometimes reveals surprises

Questions to Ask

• Where are the shutoffs for this bathroom?
• What’s behind the walls (existing plumbing, structural elements)?
• Will the drain handle the new shower/tub?
• Does this require a permit?

We’re happy to do a pre-project assessment to answer these questions before you commit to a plan.

Common Bathroom Plumbing Upgrades

Water-Saving Fixtures

• Low-flow toilets (1.28 GPF or less)
• WaterSense faucets and shower heads
• Can reduce water bills significantly

Comfort Features

• Thermostatic shower valves (prevent temperature swings)
• Point-of-use water heater for instant hot water
• Hot water recirculation systems

Luxury Additions

• Steam shower systems
• Heated floors (coordination with HVAC)
• Built-in bidet seats with heated water

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for bathroom plumbing work?

In Portland, permits are required when moving or adding plumbing fixtures, or when replacing drain/vent piping. Simple fixture replacements in the same location typically don’t require permits. We handle permit applications as part of our service.

How long does bathroom plumbing take?

A fixture swap takes a few hours. Rough-in for a new bathroom layout takes 1-2 days. We coordinate our schedule with your contractor’s timeline.

Can I keep using the bathroom during work?

It depends on the scope. For simple upgrades, downtime is minimal. For rough-in work, you may be without the bathroom for 1-3 days. We always try to restore at least toilet function as quickly as possible.

Do you install fixtures I’ve purchased?

Yes, we’re happy to install homeowner-supplied fixtures. We recommend consulting with us before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your plumbing system.

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Planning a bathroom remodel?

Let’s talk about the plumbing early — it’ll save headaches later. Contact us or call (207) 555-7890 for a consultation.