InstallationUpdated July 8, 2026
Any time you take on a bathroom remodel in Hillside, plumbing should be one of the first things you think through. Many homes here were built in the mid-20th century, and we see original supply lines, drainage, and vent stacks that often need attention before new tile, tubs, or fixtures go in. Skipping these checks leads to expensive rework, hidden leaks, and headaches right after your remodel is finished.
Why Older Hillside Homes Need Plumbing Updates
Hillside is filled with single-family homes, many of them 50 to 70 years old and built with materials like galvanized steel or cast iron pipes. Over time, these pipes corrode and restrict water flow. You might not notice it until you swap in a new shower or toilet and find water pressure is disappointing. We've also pulled out galvanized lines that were clogging with rust, cutting pressure to a trickle.
Another thing about our area's clay and loam soils: they can settle unevenly, which puts stress on buried drain lines. Add freeze-thaw cycles each winter, and old pipes are already under strain before you install anything new. Updating water and drain lines during a remodel is often much easier than tearing up finished tile later. Our pipe repair and repiping team knows these warning signs well.
Check Supply Lines and Drainage Before You Build
Before you start, look at all visible plumbing. Chromed angle stops under sinks can seize up if they're decades old. Supply risers for sinks, toilets, and showers sometimes still use old flexible brass or corroded copper. Swapping these for modern braided steel lines is a smart move during a remodel. If you're planning a bigger tub or a multi-head shower, check pipe size: three-quarter-inch copper or PEX increases flow compared to half-inch lines, and minimizes pressure drops.
Drainage is another critical part. The standard 1.5-inch drain used in older homes often can't handle the flow from modern high-output fixtures, especially larger showers. We often recommend upsizing drains, if the framing allows it. Our drain cleaning and camera inspection crews spot early blockages or slow drains that can lead to standing water after you remodel. Don't overlook trap configuration either: the P-trap under your vanity must align properly with new sink placement, or else you risk leaks and code issues.
Plan for Proper Venting and Leak Protection
Good venting lets your drains flow freely, without pulling water out of traps or causing gurgling. Older Hillside homes sometimes use drum traps or vent lines that don't meet modern code. If your remodel moves fixtures, you may need to install new vent piping to prevent slow drains and sewer gas odors. This isn't the place to cut corners, venting problems usually hide until after the drywall's up and fixtures are in.
We also advise every remodel include thorough leak checks. Any time you open up old walls, look for stains and soft drywall near plumbing runs. Swapping out old shutoff valves, inspecting for signs of corrosion, and pressure-testing new connections saves you from hidden leaks that can rot subfloors. If you see slow leaks or odd wet spots, our leak detection and repair service can pinpoint the problem before it spreads.
Fixture Upgrades and Water Heater Checks
Modern fixtures often use less water than older ones, but features like rain showerheads or soaking tubs still require adequate supply. If you're installing a luxurious tub or multiple shower heads, your water heater may need a capacity upgrade. We suggest checking the tank size and recovery rate before remodeling. Our water heater services team can advise whether your current unit can keep up, or if a new model is the way to go.
Don't forget about faucet and fixture installation. Swapping in new sinks, toilets, or tubs looks simple, but getting secure, leak-free connections matters. Our faucet and fixture installation team handles everything from setting wax rings on toilets to connecting flexible supply lines on vanities, making sure it's done right the first time.
Watch for Drainage and Flooding Risks
Hillside's clay soils and moderate water table can sometimes lead to slow drainage or moisture under the slab, especially in basements. If you're remodeling a lower-level bathroom, check that your sump pit is working, and that the check valve keeps water from backing up. For homes near the Des Plaines River or in flood-prone spots, sump pump reliability is key. Our sump pump services keep basement baths from turning into a mess after a heavy rain.
Checklist Before You Remodel
- Inspect all visible pipes for corrosion, leaks, or buildup.
- Assess if old galvanized or cast iron lines should be upgraded.
- Check water pressure at all fixtures.
- Make sure drain sizing matches new fixture flow rates.
- Confirm proper venting for all new or relocated fixtures.
- Test all shutoff valves and replace as needed.
- Evaluate your water heater's capacity for any added demand.
- Make sure sump pumps and floor drains work if finishing a basement bath.
If you're planning a bathroom remodel in Hillside, our team knows what to look for so you avoid costly surprises. Give us a call at 708-809-8751 and we'll make sure your plumbing is ready for the upgrade you have in mind.