Yes. During demolition in pre-1960s properties, we inspect all exposed waste stacks and supply lines. Galvanized pipes frequently suffer from internal corrosion and pinhole leaks, while cracked cast-iron stacks leak sewer gas. We replace them with modern smooth ABS drain lines and PEX-A supply lines connected to code.

Most can, but it requires structural subfloor preparation. To keep the shower floor flush with the bathroom tile, we must either recess the subfloor between the joists or sister the joist system to create the necessary 1/4-inch per foot slope without raising the rest of the bathroom floor above adjacent hallways.

Yes. The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) requires plumbing permits whenever supply or waste lines are relocated, and electrical permits for new GFCI circuits or radiant floor heating. When structural walls or floor joists are modified, a building permit is also required. We manage the entire permitting process on your behalf.

A complete custom bathroom renovation typically takes 4 to 7 weeks of on-site construction once demolition begins. This timeline includes framing, rough-in mechanical inspections, flood-testing the waterproof pan, precision tile setting, vanity install, glass templating and fabrication, and final city sign-off.

Seattle damp weather makes proper mechanical ventilation essential. We install quiet Panasonic WhisperCeiling exhaust fans (80 to 110 CFM) equipped with automatic condensation sensors. We vent these fans outdoors through rigid, insulated metal ductwork rather than corrugated plastic flex hose that traps standing moisture.

We use monolithic bonded sheet membranes over water-resistant backer board, paired with hand-floated dry-pack mortar shower pans. Before any tile is installed, every pan undergoes a 24-hour standing water flood test plugged at the drain to verify a 100% leak-proof seal.

Historic homes rarely have plumb walls or square corners. We build furniture-grade cabinet boxes with marine-grade plywood cores and scribe them on-site to fit tightly against out-of-square walls, topping them with custom-templated Carrara marble or quartz countertops.