If you are wanting to sell or thinking of renting out your home, it’s important for your home to not only look it’s best but also to ensure all plumbing is in working order and that there are no issues.

Updating your bathroom for example, with new tiles, may look stunning, but it won’t count for much if a leaky shower drain is causing water damage. Other things to think of that can aid in selling or renting your home, is matching and tasteful contrasting of finishes in between fixtures. This can make a big difference in visual impressions for potential buyers/renters.

The parts of the home with lots of plumbing are some of the most important areas of any residence; for many, the kitchen and bathroom are focal points. As these areas require a lot of plumbing there could be several repairs or upgrades that can be made, that might not occur to you. We at Trojan have put together a few things that can help to get your place functioning at – and looking – its best!

In the Kitchen

  • Outside of the appliances, the sink is usually the most notable part of the kitchen. Give yours a close inspection, looking for chips, cracks, discoloration, and deteriorated sealant which would be preferable to replace
  • If the sink is fine but the faucet is leaking, that is easy to fix. But if the finish no longer matches the rest of the kitchen, is tarnished, or the faucet doesn’t look good then it’s worth it to replace it.
  • The water supply lines that connect to faucets, dishwashers, and washing machines should have shut-off valves to prevent flooding and make them easier to repair. Any leaking or non-operational valves need to be replaced. You should also take time to inspect the lines – replace them with stainless steel flex lines if there are any indications of a leak or damage.
  • It is preferable to cover exposed supply holes and replace escutcheon that are worn out or don’t match: you might be surprised what a difference this little change can make. Even under the sink or anything out of view, having a clean escutcheon secure against the wall demonstrates an attention to detail that could make a great improvement.
  • Replacing the stove may not be an option but installing new coils, knobs, reflector pans and rings would make a difference. These replacements are quick and are inexpensive.
  • Over time, faucet aerators can become damaged or clogged. A weak, sputtering or uneven flow from the faucet can potentially turn off potential buyers and tenants. This could also cause unnecessary concern over the home’s water supply. Even though it is one of the smallest of fixes, its effects can go a long way as low-flow aerators conserve a significant amount of water.

In the Bathroom

  • As in the kitchen, a damaged or lacklustre sink in the bathroom can potentially turn prospective buyers/renters off. If the bathroom needs more of a makeover you could consider a pedestal sink for a more classic look. If your bathroom is small, a wall-mounted sink can save space.
  • If the toilet faucet is leaking or otherwise compromised, you would need to have this fixed and replaced if required.
  • Replace old, worn out P-traps with neat, new piping for a well-maintained appearance. You could improve the look of your bathroom using a decorative P-trap: an exposed trap in a finish that matches fixtures is a great way to improve the bathroom’s appearance!
  • Supply lines for the toilet, faucet, and shower/bath should be replaced if they haven’t been recently, or if they show any signs of damage or wear. Stainless steel flex lines are usually the best to replace these with.
  • Each supply should have a shut-off valve on it, and any that appear worn or are not working need to be replaced as soon as possible.
  • Replacing a worn or unattractive bath spout will give the bath a clean, cared-for look.
  • Update your bath or shower trim with a new finish, It may not seem like much, but it can make an impact on potential buyers.
  • An old shower drain in a nice-looking shower can discourage buyers and devalue the home: no one wants to inherit water damage.
  • If your shower drain itself is fine, but you’ve got an old or scratched cover on your drain it would be best to replace it.
  • A new toilet can make a drastic difference, and not only in terms of appearance: as one of the most-used and water-intensive fixtures in the home, reducing its water use with a new low-flow model can save allot of money.
  • If the toilet is in good condition, it is best to check that is also functioning at its best. If there are any issues we at Trojan can assist you in advising what repairs must be done.

Around the house

  • If you have slow drains don’t be quick to use drain cleaning chemicals. At Trojan we know the best way to clear most drains without putting pipes or water systems at risk.
  • Install access panels for easy access to plumbing or wiring in just about any wall of the house. This saves time and money by not having to tear a wall apart for what might be a simple fix.

If you are wanting to sell your home or rent it out and are in need of a complete check based on the recommendations in this article or if you have any other concerns, then contact Trojan plumbing to make an appointment and we will gladly assist you.