A kitchen remodel is one of the most exciting—and valuable—home improvement projects you can take on. But while new cabinets, countertops, and appliances often steal the spotlight, the plumbing behind the walls is just as important to get right.
At Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating, we’ve helped homeowners across Maryland successfully plan and execute plumbing for kitchen remodels of all sizes. Whether you’re making small updates or doing a full gut renovation, here’s what you need to know to keep your plumbing project on track.
1. Start with a Plumbing Inspection
Before you start tearing anything out, schedule a professional plumbing inspection. This helps identify:
- Outdated or corroded pipes
- Drainage or water pressure issues
- Potential code violations
- Opportunities to improve layout or efficiency
Catching these issues early can prevent costly surprises once walls and floors are opened up.
2. Decide What Stays and What Moves
One of the biggest factors affecting plumbing costs during a remodel is whether you’re relocating fixtures. Moving a sink or dishwasher to a new location means rerouting supply lines and drainage, which adds time and labor to the job.
To keep costs down:
- Try to keep major plumbing fixtures (sink, dishwasher) in their original locations
- If you’re moving anything, plan it early and consult a licensed plumber
- Consider functionality and flow—sometimes moving a fixture is worth it for long-term convenience
3. Upgrade Aging Pipes and Valves
Remodeling gives you access to pipes and plumbing lines that are normally hidden behind walls. This is a great time to replace aging components, especially if your home has:
- Galvanized steel or outdated copper pipes
- Worn shut-off valves
- Old or undersized supply lines
Swapping these out now can improve water flow, prevent leaks, and add decades of life to your plumbing system.
4. Choose Fixtures That Match Your System
It’s easy to fall in love with stylish faucets or fancy pot fillers—but not every fixture is compatible with your home’s existing water pressure or plumbing configuration.
Work with your plumber to choose fixtures that:
- Meet local code requirements
- Are water-efficient (look for WaterSense® labels)
- Fit seamlessly with your water lines and filtration systems
Pro tip: Don’t forget to plan for water lines to refrigerators, filtered water taps, or instant hot water dispensers.
5. Plan for Venting and Drainage
Drainage and ventilation are critical to a functional kitchen. Improper venting can cause slow drains, foul odors, or gurgling sounds at the sink. A qualified plumber will ensure your updated layout has proper:
- Drain slopes
- Trap installations
- Air admittance valves or vent stacks
Even if your kitchen looks brand-new, poor drainage can create major headaches—so this step isn’t one to skip.
6. Coordinate Early with Contractors
Your plumber should be part of the planning team from day one. Coordinating with your general contractor, electrician, and designer ensures that plumbing is integrated smoothly into the timeline and layout.
The earlier you involve a licensed plumber, the easier it is to avoid setbacks and last-minute changes that could delay your project.
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Remodel?
At Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating, we’re here to help you plan your kitchen plumbing the right way—so you can enjoy a remodel that’s as functional as it is beautiful. So, if you’re thinking about updating your kitchen, contact us today for expert plumbing consultations, fixture recommendations, and code-compliant installations that bring your remodel to life.