So you're planning on finally renovating your basement, you've been bugging your spouse for years, and they're ready to pull the trigger now. You've been plotting and planning for months how you want your basement to look when it's finished, but you've overlooked one critical detail: the plumbing needs to be upgraded to facilitate that wet bar.
You're in luck because our blog is going to go over the good, bad, and dirty of your basement plumbing. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton will go over every tip and trick to understanding the plumbing system that could save you money and unwanted plumbing issues in the long run.
Our Edmonton plumbers are experts when it comes to plumbing (you would hope so with a name like Mr. Rooter Plumbing). We will help you navigate the complexities of remodelling a basement when you need professional and reliable plumbing services.
Edmonton Basement Plumbing: Get to Know the Landscape
You're about to become an expert on all things soil. Whether you've lived in Edmonton your whole life or you've recently moved here, you know that the winters are very cold. How does this tie into soil? Well, the cold winters make for clay-rich soil, which causes a freeze-thaw cycle. All this translates to soil movement, which leads to pressure on your underground pipes. Pressure on your pipes could mean leaks and cracks, resulting in flooding, water damage to your floors, and problems with your home’s foundation.
If you have an older home in Edmonton, there is a good chance that you have outdated plumbing, and you'll need to upgrade this before you tackle a basement bathroom renovation.
Let’s Talk About Common Basement Plumbing Issues
No one wants to focus only on the bad; we get it, but it's good to know about common issues that you might experience when taking your basement plumbing. Edmonton homeowners shouldn't be underprepared. Here's what you need to know:
Frozen Pipes
The closer north you are, the colder the winters, and we're sorry to say Edmonton, we’re cold here. The cold weather means that your pipes are most susceptible to freezing, especially your basement plumbing. Edmonton residents will want to watch for slow-flowing water and loss of water pressure, as these are both signs that you have frozen pipes. If you have water lines or drains along outside walls you have an elevated risk of freezing.
Sewer Backups
When all that snow begins to melt, it may mean a lot of you are getting happier because spring is coming, but it can also mean a sewer backup from an overwhelmed sewer system. Though this is more common in older homes, it's something to keep in mind when creating your dream basement living space. You can avoid this issue by maintaining your sewer, installing a backwater valve, and possibly a sump pump.
Drainage Problems
Most homes built before 1980 have cast iron pipes under the basement slab. While they were a great pipe for the time, most are nearing the end of their expected lifespan, slowly rusting away as they are continuously exposed to water. You will definitely want to know the state of these drains BEFORE doing a basement renovation. Ask our professional plumbers to take a look at this before we get to work on your Edmonton basement plumbing project.
Water Heater Issues
Your water heater plays a critical role in ensuring a hot water supply for bathing, cleaning, and doing the dishes. So it’s essential to schedule regular maintenance services to make sure it continues to work properly and avoid issues like leaks and insufficient heat.
Why Basement Plumbing Is Important
Whether you're taking on a basement renovation project or simply adding a bathroom to make your finished basement more functional, it is critical that the plumbing components, such as sewage, sump pumps, and water heaters, are installed properly.
These systems are vital to prevent flooding and sewer backups that can impact the integrity of your home. Given the climate and soil of Edmonton, there is extra strain and stress on the basement plumbing. Edmonton residents need to understand that it is essential to have their plumbing installed properly and keep it well maintained.
A Basement Transformation
We have covered the bad and the dirty, but let's go over the good that comes after you have had a professional install your basement plumbing. Let's talk about all the fun things you can install now!
Additional Bathroom
Having an extra bathroom can be handy in your home, and with your upgraded plumbing for a basement bathroom, you can get that easily. Install that rain shower you've been wanting to make the perfect oasis or maybe the perfect raised toilet, so prepare to take care of your aging family members. Whatever the reason is that you wanted an additional bathroom installed in your basement, you can truly make it your own.
Sewage Ejector Pump Installation
When you are installing new plumbing fixtures in your basement, you may require a sewage ejector pump installation. Remember that wastewater must drain downhill, and with some new fixture installations this simply isn’t possible, in these cases you’ll need a sewage ejector pump, or lift station. This ensures that wastewater is sent upward to the sewer system because lower-level bathroom drains are typically installed below the mainline. A sewage pump provides the pressure needed to remove waste from your home effectively.
Kitchenette and Wet Bar
If you are looking to get extra income by renting out the basement of your home or you want to have a space for entertaining, being able to install a kitchenette or wet bar can elevate your space. A functional kitchen can mean extra income if you make your property a rental home or have older kids who are going to UofA and still want to live at home but also have independence.
Heated Floors
Oh yes, we said it, heated floors! Just picture going down to the basement and instead of the hardwood and tile feeling like ice touching your skin, it's nice and warm. This is a wonderful upgrade to counter the coldness that comes with having a basement.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the Best Choice to Improve Your Basement Plumbing: Edmonton Homeowners — Call Now
One thing you can't do with plumbing is DIY projects that require a licensed plumber. While you can absolutely install a vent yourself and watch a how-to video on installing a bathroom fixture, you will want to leave your septic and sewer lines to the professionals. Our team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton is dedicated to delivering optimal service. You don't have to break the bank to get the plumbing solutions that you need.
Our plumbing experts can help with anything from shower drains, toilet systems, leaky drain pipes, sink drain cleanings, and so much more. Where we are installing plumbing for you or doing repairs, there isn't anything our plumbers can't help you with.
You'll save yourself the stress when you call us for Edmonton basement plumbing services to get the services you need for home improvements.
