Designing a custom home in Vancouver is an exciting journey, but without proper plumbing planning, it can lead to costly delays and limitations later on.
Plumbing may not be the most glamorous part of a custom home design, but it plays a key role in how your home functions day-to-day, from where your bathrooms go to how efficient your hot water system is.
And with Vancouver’s climate, water regulations, and modern design trends, there are several important factors to consider from the start.
Layout Comes First, Plumbing Follows Closely
Before finalizing your floor plan, work closely with your builder and plumbing designer to map out the most efficient plumbing routes.
Multi-level homes, open-concept kitchens, and spa-inspired bathrooms all come with unique demands. Think vertically and group wet rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms on top of or near each other to reduce pipe runs and improve water pressure. The earlier this is done, the fewer compromises you’ll face down the line.
Vancouver’s bylaws may also impact where certain fixtures or drainage systems can be located. Backwater valves, sump pumps, and stormwater management must all be considered upfront if you’re building in a flood-prone zone or near an older infrastructure.
Hot Water Access and Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a top priority for most new homes in the Lower Mainland, so your plumbing plan should support that goal. On-demand tankless water heaters have become popular in Vancouver homes thanks to their space-saving design and lower energy use. But they need proper placement and gas line sizing.
Same with radiant in-floor heating, which requires early coordination between plumbing, electrical, and HVAC contractors. Failure to plan properly can lead to expensive do-overs or uncomfortable cold spots in your home.
Don’t Overlook Futureproofing
Plumbing design isn’t just about today, it’s about building a home that adapts to your future. That’s why you should always consider roughed-in lines for potential basement suites, outdoor kitchens, or hot tubs. These additions are easier and cheaper to install now rather than retrofitting later.
Here are some smart planning considerations to include during design:
- Group wet areas together to minimize piping
- Choose efficient fixtures that meet City of Vancouver water bylaws
- Plan for future add-ons like irrigation, EV-ready car washes, or outdoor showers
- Install water filtration systems if you want added control over water quality
- Include exterior hose bibs with frost-free protection
Plumbing Should Work With Your Lifestyle
Every household is different. If you’re a family that runs multiple showers at once or has a large chef-style kitchen, your plumbing system should be designed accordingly.
No matter what your design tastes are, a well-designed plumbing system is part of the foundation and must be determined early in the building process.
At Best Builders, we integrate plumbing design with every custom home plan to ensure functionality, efficiency, and peace of mind. Contact us today to talk about your vision for a better-built Vancouver home.
Best Builders has been renovating existing homes and building new ones for over 20 years. They are a multiple-award-winning builder that brings fine craftmanship to projects, turning dreams into reality. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about your home project, please call us at (604) 943-2378 or email us at info@bestbuilders.ca