Modernising plumbing in an old home is a crucial step to ensure comfort, safety and compliance with current standards. Old systems can be ineffective, leak-prone or made with materials that are now considered obsolete or even dangerous. What are the main steps to carry out this project?
Evaluate the existing state of the network
Before any intervention, a complete diagnosis of the installation is essential. This includes the inspection of pipes, fittings, faucets, water heaters and exhaust systems. In very old houses, you can still find lead or galvanised steel pipes. However, the latter are subject to corrosion and prohibited in new constructions.
Gradually replace obsolete materials
To modernise an old plumbing without undertaking heavy work, it is wise to adopt a gradual approach. Instead of demolishing the partitions, we can install the new pipes in sight. Simply fix them along the walls or ceilings, then hide them with neat dressings. The use of pipes made of flexible materials such as PER or multilayer facilitates their integration into already in place ducts. This thus limits invasive interventions. In addition, adapted connections exist to connect the old circuits to the new ones without having to replace everything immediately.
Rethinking the development
The old houses were not designed to accommodate modern sanitary facilities. It is often necessary to review the layout of bathrooms and kitchens to integrate new water points or optimise the circulation of hot and cold water. This can include the addition of shut-off valves, pressure reducers or anti-limescale filters.
Modernise wastewater disposal without redoing the entire network
When the old evacuation pipes are still useable but weakened by time, it is possible to consolidate them without a complete replacement. An effective method is to insert an internal resin coating into the pipes to create a new waterproof wall, without heavy work. In ageing sanitation systems, the addition of an anti-return device prevents bad odours and reflux. Finally, in homes where the natural slope is not enough to properly drain water, a lifting station can be installed to ensure optimal flow without modifying the entire network.
Install cost-effective and modern (smart) equipment
It is also an opportunity to opt for water- and energy-efficient equipment. This can be equipment such as:
- The thermodynamic water heater;
- A low-flow faucet;
- Double flow flushes;
- Toilets with integrated grinder;
- A rainwater collection system etc.
These choices not only modernise the house, but also reduce the bill in the long term.
Provide accessibility
As part of a complete renovation, it is relevant to anticipate future needs, especially in terms of accessibility. Installing walk-in showers, height-adjustable washbasins or built-in pipes makes it easier for people with reduced mobility to use.
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