How Inflation is Impacting Plumbing Projects

Image of plumbing project

Plumber performing plumbing project in Portland OR - D&F Plumbing, Heating and CoolingIf you’ve ever listened to your grandparents reminisce about how low prices used to be when they were younger, then you’re probably familiar with the concept of inflation. While it can be fun to hear about the days when you could get a cheeseburger for under a quarter, the reality of inflation has had a detrimental effect on many households today – especially when it comes to home improvement projects.

If you’re planning a plumbing project, then you’ve probably noticed how prices have been gradually rising over the last several years. Understanding how inflation is impacting plumbing services and products can help you anticipate prices while lowering the overall cost of your project.

Why Are Plumbing Projects Getting More Expensive?

While inflation has definitely contributed to the steady rise in plumbing prices, it isn’t the only factor at play. Another big reason why home improvement projects have gotten more expensive in recent years is COVID-19. The global pandemic worsened trade labor shortages and sparked supply chain issues, resulting in much higher prices for products and services alike.

How to Save Money on Plumbing

Plumbing is a crucial part of your home, and some repairs or improvements are essential. Though inflation and rising project costs can be overwhelming, there are a few ways you can make plumbing more affordable. Here are a few tips you can follow to save money on your plumbing projects:

  • Plan ahead: A little bit of planning can go a long way. Scheduling service far in advance will ensure your project is completed on time even if there are labor shortages. Buying parts ahead of time could also save you money and stress if there are supply chain issues that would otherwise cause delays.
  • Work with a professional: While it may be tempting to cut costs by DIY-ing your projects, large plumbing projects are best left to the professionals. Small errors could lead to leaks or breakdowns, which could cause significant damage to your home and lead to even more expenses than if you had worked with an expert in the first place.
  • Ask for a full quote: Requesting a detailed quote in writing allows you to anticipate expenses and avoid surprises. This not only allows you to plan ahead, but it also provides you with the opportunity to discuss costs with your contractor before they begin work.
  • Work with local plumbers: Local plumbers generally offer faster and more cost-competitive services than national companies. Most local contractors are responsive and willing to deliver personalized services tailored to your individual needs. They are also well-versed in local codes and regulations, which helps projects move along seamlessly.
  • Look for discounts: Some plumbing companies offer special deals to make their services more affordable. When shopping around for a plumber, try looking for coupons or asking about discounts to see where you could save money.

Your Local Plumbing Contractors

If you’re looking for quality plumbing services in the Portland OR area, you can count on the experts at D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling! Our experts have proudly helped homes and businesses since 1927, and we are dedicated to providing you with fast and dependable services that you can rely on. From pipes and drains to water heaters and other plumbing appliances, our team has you covered! Just give us a call today to get your personalized quote.

Planning for a Bathroom Remodel

D and F Plumbing Planning for a bathroom remodel

Beautiful modern bathroom. D and F Plumbing serving Portland OR and Vancouver WA talks about planning for a bathroom remodel.

[2021 Update]

Are you planning to remodel your bathroom? Even simple changes can revitalize an old, outdated bathroom. In this article, we’ll outline a few main features you can upgrade to bring a fresh look to an older bathroom. 

Install New Plumbing Fixtures

Depending on how old your home is, your bathroom remodel could be as simple as adding new faucets. But if you want a more dramatic change, consider installing a new vanity, tub or toilet. You can also revitalize your bathroom by quickly changing out drawer handles and towel racks. 

Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

Repainting your bathroom is another affordable and easy way to breathe new life into your bathroom. You’ll want to clean your walls and patch any holes prior to painting. Also, keep in mind to select a mildew-resistant semi-gloss or satin paint. 

Select Timeless and Durable Tiles

Ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles are great choices for bathrooms because they are water-resistant and highly durable. To start small, you can just focus on the floor tiles first, then come back to the shower tiles at a later date.

Choose a Durable Countertop

Your vanity is an important component in your bathroom remodel. It should look good, have plenty of storage space for toiletries, and be durable against moisture. Popular countertop materials for bathrooms include granite, marble, laminate, and quartz.

Remodel the Bathroom Yourself or Hire a Professional?

Remodeling projects can give you a big bang for your buck, but it’s easy to get caught up in all of the excitement of designing rather than making sure your plumbing will actually work. Take a hard look at your project and decide whether or not you can do it yourself or if you should hire a professional plumber. 

Experts in Plumbing Installation

If you’re planning for a bathroom remodel this year, you have a lot of decisions to make. After all, a bathroom remodel is an investment. For expert help in the Portland and Vancouver area, contact D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling. Whether it’s a few simple fixture updates or an entire bathroom remodel, our plumbers know how to make your bathroom look timeless and perform efficiently. We’ve been satisfying customers with their plumbing needs for over 93 years and we always leave the seat down!