How To Plumb A Bathroom In 20 Minutes! - Beginners Guide

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of plumbing a bathroom, including how to install drains and vents for a sink, toilet, and shower using PVC pipe. Whether you're a beginner or just need a quick refresher, this step-by-step guide aims to make the plumbing process simple and efficient.

Step 1: Understand Bathroom Layout and Measurements

• Bathroom Size: A standard bathroom size is 5 feet by 8 feet.
• Toilet Position: Measure 12.5 inches from the wall (without drywall) to the center of the toilet flange. If drywall is present, measure 12 inches instead.
• Lavatory Distance: Ensure the lavatory is at least 15 inches away from the shower.
• Hot and Cold Water Lines: The hot water line is always on the left, and the cold water line is on the right.

Step 2: Prepare for Drilling

• Dry Fit Fixtures: Place the shower base, toilet, and sink in position to visualize drilling holes accurately.
• Marking: Use a framing square to ensure measurements are accurate and mark where you'll drill.
• Drill Bits: Use a 4.5-inch drill bit for the toilet flange and a 2.125-inch hole saw for the sink drain.

Step 3: Drill Holes for Plumbing Fixtures

• Drill Toilet Hole: Center the 4.5-inch drill bit over the marked position for the toilet flange and drill.
• Drill Sink Hole: Measure 12.5 inches from the wall and drill the 2.125-inch hole for the sink drain.
• Drill Shower Hole: Position the shower base and drill a hole using the same 4.5-inch drill bit to accommodate the shower drain.

Step 4: Install the Toilet Flange

• Use a Spacer: Place a spacer to ensure the flange is at the correct height, matching your flooring.
• Securing the Flange: Use inch-and-a-quarter drywall screws to temporarily secure the spacer. Then, position the flange diagonally (not square) to the wall and secure it with decking screws.

Step 5: Create Venting for the Toilet

• Drill Vent Hole: Center an inch-and-a-half hole in the wall behind the toilet flange for venting.
• Connect Drainage: Connect the venting and drainage pipes as required.

Step 6: Install Sink Drain

• Measure for Drain Tee: From the floor, measure up 18.5 inches for the sink drain tee.
• Cut Pipe: Use a saw to cut the pipe where marked, and ensure to scrape off any burrs for a clean fit.
• Use Primer and Cement: Apply primer to the pipe and tee, let it dry briefly, then use PVC cement to secure the joint.

Step 7: Install Water Supply Lines

• Drill Holes: Drill holes where the water supply lines will run.
  • Cold Water Line: 3 inches from the wall, 6 inches from the center of the toilet flange.
  • Hot Water Line: 3 inches from the wall, 4 inches from the sink drain center.
• Run Water Lines: Feed half-inch lines through the drilled holes.

Step 8: Final Connections

• Connect P-traps: Under the sink, connect the P-trap to the sink drain and the main drainage pipe.
• Connect Water Supply: Use quarter-turn adapters to connect the supply lines to the sink and toilet.

Conclusion

You've now successfully plumbed a bathroom, covering the installation of drains, vents, and supply lines. Always double-check local building codes and ensure everything is installed securely. For future projects, consider watching additional videos on specific plumbing connections and advanced techniques. Happy plumbing!