A kitchen renovation is exciting — new cabinetry, new finishes — but the decisions that save you money and headaches happen below the surface, before the tiles go down. Here is what to get right while the walls are open.
Decide the layout (and sink position) early
Moving the sink or dishwasher means re-routing both water supply and waste — and the waste must keep the correct fall to drain properly. This is straightforward while floors and walls are open, and expensive once they are closed. Lock in your layout before any plumbing starts.
Fix the old stuff while you can
If your supply pipes are old galvanised, or the shut-off valves are seized, a renovation is the cheapest time to replace them — everything is accessible. Future-proofing now avoids ripping out brand-new cabinetry later when an old pipe finally fails.
Plan the extras
- Isolation valves for the dishwasher and fridge water line — so future servicing does not mean shutting off the whole house
- Quality flexi-hoses (the cheap ones burst and flood)
- A filtered drinking-water tap if you want one — easiest to plumb now
Get the rough-in done right
Proper drainage falls and compliant connections are what stop a beautiful new kitchen springing a leak six months later. We handle the plumbing rough-in and final connections — see kitchen plumbing or our renovation service. Plan it with us before the tiler arrives.