Bathroom Remodel
Bathroom Remodel | Plumbing | La Follette
Dreaming of a spa-worthy retreat without leaving La Follette? HEP’s seasoned team turns dated bathrooms into stylish sanctuaries, handling every pipe, fixture, and waterline with master-level plumbing skill. From the first design sketch to the final tile adjustment, we coordinate closely with you to ensure flawless water pressure, leak-proof connections, and code-compliant installations, all while respecting your budget and timeline.
Whether you crave a rainfall shower, a space-saving vanity, or a luxurious soaking tub, our craftsmen blend innovative materials with time-tested plumbing techniques to deliver comfort that lasts. Count on courteous pros who protect your home, clean up daily, and keep you informed at every step—so the only surprise is how much you love your new bathroom.
FAQs
Do I need a plumbing permit for a bathroom remodel in La Follette?
Yes. The City of La Follette follows the 2018 International Plumbing Code and Tennessee state amendments. Any work that involves moving or adding supply or drain lines, replacing a water heater, or installing new fixtures requires a plumbing permit. Homeowners or their licensed plumbing contractor must submit plans and pay the permit fee through the City of La Follette Building & Codes Department (located at 200 South Tennessee Ave.). Inspections are usually required at rough-in and final stages before walls are closed and the project is signed off.
What plumbing upgrades add the most value to a La Follette bathroom remodel?
The biggest return comes from (1) replacing galvanized or aging copper lines with PEX-A or Type L copper, (2) installing a pressure-balanced shower valve to meet scald-protection requirements, (3) adding a high-efficiency, comfort-height toilet using 1.28 gpf or less, (4) roughing in a dual-sink vanity if space allows, and (5) upsizing the exhaust fan duct to 4 inches for better moisture control, which helps prevent mold in Campbell County’s humid climate.
How long does the plumbing portion of a bathroom remodel typically take?
A straightforward fixture replacement (toilet, faucet, vanity) can be completed in 1–2 days once materials are on site. If you are moving the tub or shower, expect 2–4 days for demolition, line relocation, and pressure testing. A full gut remodel with new supply and drain lines generally requires 5–7 working days, including rough-in inspection and a final trim-out visit after tile and drywall are finished. Delays usually come from waiting on specialty fixtures or coordinating with electrical and carpentry trades.
Can the toilet, shower, or sink be relocated, and what does that involve?
Yes, but relocating fixtures means rerouting both supply lines and the 3- or 4-inch waste stack, which must maintain a ¼-inch-per-foot slope. In slab-on-grade homes common around Norris Lake, the concrete must be saw-cut to move drains, adding labor and disposal costs. In crawl-space homes, access is easier but may require additional supports or insulation for freeze protection. A licensed plumber will also check the venting system to ensure every fixture is within code-required distance of a vent stack.
What pipe materials do you recommend for new bathroom supply and drain lines?
For water supply: PEX-A with expansion fittings is popular in La Follette because it tolerates winter freezes better than rigid copper and reduces labor. Type L copper is still a premium option for exposed runs or high-temperature lines, but it is more expensive. For drains and vents: Schedule 40 PVC is the local standard; ABS is allowed but less stocked in Campbell County suppliers. All joints should be solvent-welded and tested to 5 psi air or 10-ft water head per code.
How much does professional bathroom remodel plumbing cost in La Follette?
Prices vary with scope, but current 2024 averages are: $1,000–$1,500 for a fixture-only swap (toilet, faucet, vanity). $2,500–$4,000 if you’re replacing the tub/shower valve and rough-in lines without moving locations. $4,500–$8,000 for a full gut remodel with relocated fixtures and new PEX supply and PVC drains. Add about $350 for every extra inspection or if a water heater, pressure-reducing valve, or whole-house shut-off is replaced. Always request a detailed, line-item quote and confirm the plumber is licensed with the State of Tennessee and carries liability insurance.