Plumbing is an integral part of any construction, whether it is new construction, renovation or maintenance of existing buildings. This article focuses on the process of plumbing, the factors affecting its cost and the cost of the associated work.
Plumbing services include the installation and maintenance of water supply and drainage piping systems, installation of bathroom and kitchen fixtures, as well as troubleshooting plumbing, drainage, and heating systems. The main materials used in this work include plastic, copper and steel pipes, which are selected according to project requirements and installation specifics.
Calculate the price of construction works
The price of plumbing work is influenced by several factors. One of the main factors is the type and quality of materials used. Plastic pipes (e.g., PEX or PVC) are cheaper, with prices around £0.50–£2 per metre. Copper pipes are more expensive, ranging between £5–£10 per metre, while steel pipes can cost up to £15–£20 per metre. The choice of material depends on durability requirements, corrosion resistance, and other factors such as water pressure and temperature.
Project complexity and design requirements also significantly affect costs. Simple installations, such as replacing a sink or supply pipe, are cheaper and less time-consuming. On the other hand, more complex projects, such as installing a new bathroom system or extending an existing plumbing system, require more time, special tools, and skills, which can increase costs by 20–40%.
The preparation of the piping system and its installation involves several steps, from measuring and cutting the pipes to joining them and ensuring that they are properly sealed. Quality joints and proper sealing are key to preventing leaks and long-term damage to the system. The cost of preparation and installation can range from £10–£30 per metre of pipe installed, depending on the complexity and quality of the work.
Another important factor influencing price is labour. The price of labour depends on the region, the experience of the workers, and the scope of the work. In urban areas, wages are usually higher, which is reflected in the overall cost. The average price for plumbing work, including installation, is around £40–£60 per hour, while in complex or special projects, the cost can go up to £70–£100 per hour.
Calculate the price of construction works
The location of the project is another important factor influencing the price. Prices for services can vary by region, with urban areas typically having higher costs due to higher costs of living and rent. Surveys show that plumbing prices in urban areas can be as much as 15-25% higher compared to rural areas.
The use and maintenance of special tools and techniques also contribute to costs. Modern technologies such as pressure testers, special welding machines for plastic pipes or leak detectors can be expensive, which is reflected in the overall costs. Regular maintenance and calibration of these instruments are essential to ensure accuracy and job safety.
Statistics show that the demand for plumbing work is steadily increasing, mainly due to increasing construction activity and the need to upgrade older plumbing systems. According to estimates, the market for plumbing services is expected to grow by approximately 3-5% per year over the next five years, with the greatest demand in areas with heavy construction activity.
Plumbing Work Procedure
Planning and Preparation: the process begins with thorough planning and preparation. It is important to accurately measure the space and plan the layout of piping systems and other components. Before work begins, the existing water and wastewater systems must be inspected to ensure that they are ready for installation.
Cutting and Modifying Pipes: The following is the cutting of the piping to the required dimensions. This step requires the use of special tools such as metal saws or plastic pipe cutters. The pipes are prepared for installation, including cleaning the ends and applying the necessary fasteners or gaskets.
Installation of Pipes and Equipment: preparation is followed by installation of pipes and equipment. Pipes are joined using various techniques such as welding, gluing or the use of bolted joints, depending on the pipe material. Installation of equipment such as sinks, toilets, or heating systems is carried out in accordance with the plan and technical standards.
Testing and Checking: After installation, testing of the entire system follows. Pressure tests are used to verify that the joints are tight and the system is functioning properly. If any leaks or defects are found, these must be corrected before the work is completed.
Finishing and Finishing: Finally, finishing work is carried out, such as insulating the pipes to prevent them from freezing and finishing the installed equipment. If necessary, aesthetic finishing of surfaces, such as tiling of walls or floors where plumbing work has taken place, is also carried out.
Plumbing is a complex process that involves several phases, from planning and preparation to final system modification and testing. The cost of this work is influenced by a variety of factors, including the type and quality of materials, the complexity of the project, the preparation of the piping system, the cost of labor, the location of the project, and the use of special tools and techniques. With the increasing demand for construction and renovation work, it is important to understand these factors and plan effectively for the cost of plumbing work.
Calculate the price of construction works
Suitable materials for the installation of water works:
- Ovens:
○ Copper pipes: they are durable, strong and long-lasting, but more expensive.
○ Plastic pipes (PE, PP): they are light, cheap and easy to install, but less resistant to high temperatures and pressure.
○ Composite pipes: combine the properties of copper and plastic, are durable, strong and easy to install, but more expensive than plastic pipes.
- Fixtures:
○ Brass fittings: they are durable, strong and aesthetically pleasing, but more expensive.
○ Stainless steel fittings: they are corrosion resistant, strong and hygienic, but more expensive than brass fittings.
○ Plastic fittings: they are cheap and easy to install, but less resistant to mechanical damage.
- Sanitary technology:
○ Ceramic sanitary ware: It is durable, easy to clean and hygienic.
○ Acrylic sanitary ware: It is lighter than ceramic, cheaper and impact resistant.
○ Cast iron sanitary ware: It is the most durable, but also the heaviest and most expensive.
Important tips:
- Draw up a detailed plan and budget before starting work.
- Choose quality materials from reputable manufacturers.
- Entrust the installation of plumbing work to an experienced and qualified plumber.
- Comply with technical standards and safety regulations.
- After installation, perform pressure tests to ensure that the piping and fittings are tight.
- Regularly inspect and maintain water facilities to prevent breakdowns.
Calculate the price of construction works
Fitting conventional sanitary facilities: detailed instructions
Fitting common sanitary fixtures such as taps, toilets, basins and shower screens is a common part of bathroom renovation or even routine maintenance. Although it seems like a simple job, it is important to follow the right procedure and use quality materials to prevent water leaks and ensure the smooth functioning of your sanitary fittings.
Important: Before starting work, read the sanitary equipment manufacturer's instructions and follow the safety instructions.
General fitting procedure:
- Preparation: turn off the water supply to the room where you will install the sanitary ware. Remove the old sanitary equipment (if necessary). Prepare all necessary materials and tools.
- Installation: follow the instructions of the sanitary ware manufacturer. Ensure proper sealing of joints and use of quality gaskets and sealing materials.
- Connection to the water and sewerage network: connect the sanitation technology to the water and sewerage network using flexible hoses or fixed pipes. Make sure that the connections are properly sealed.
- Test: Turn on the water supply and check the tightness of the connections. If you observe a leak, turn off the water supply and repair the seal.
- Commissioning: If everything is in order, you can put the sanitation equipment into operation.
Tips:
- Read the sanitary manufacturer's instructions before installation.
- Use quality materials and tools.
- Make sure that the joints are properly sealed.
- Check the connections for tightness before commissioning.
- If you are unsure of the procedure, contact a professional installer.
Conclusion: fitting conventional sanitary fittings is a relatively simple job that you can do yourself if you follow the instructions and use good quality materials. However, if you are unsure of the procedure or want to be sure of a flawless installation, it is advisable to contact a professional plumber.
Installation and installation of the i-box socket housing
belongs to water works. The I-box is a plumbing box that is used in the installation of faucets, showers and toilets. It allows you to hide the water and waste pipes in the wall and gives the bathroom a sleek and modern look.
The procedure of mounting and jamming the i-box:
- Preparation: turn off the water supply to the room where you will install the i-box. Mark on the wall the location of the i-box according to the manufacturer's instructions and the desired height of the faucet, shower or toilet.
- Cutting out the hole: Using a cutter or hammer and chisel, cut a hole in the wall for the i-box.
- Positioning the i-box: insert the i-box into the cut-out hole and fix it with screws or dowels. Make sure that the i-box is flush with the wall.
- Connection to the water and sewer network: connect the i-box to the water and sewer network using flexible hoses or fixed pipes. Make sure that the connections are properly sealed.
- Jamming the i-box: apply mortar or plaster around the i-box and align it with the wall. Allow the mortar or plaster to cure.
- Installing the mixer, shower or toilet: after the mortar or plaster has cured, install the mixer, shower or toilet on the i-box according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Test: Turn on the water supply and check the tightness of the connections. If you observe a leak, turn off the water supply and repair the seal.
- Commissioning: If everything is in order, you can put the sanitation technology into operation.
Tips:
- Read the i-box and sanitary manufacturer's instructions before installation.
- Use quality materials and tools.
- Make sure that the joints are properly sealed.
- Check the connections for tightness before commissioning.
- If you are unsure of the procedure, contact a professional installer.
Conclusion:
Assembling and jamming an i-box is a more challenging job that requires skill and experience. If you are unsure of the procedure, or if you want to be assured of a flawless installation, it is advisable to contact a professional installer.