Bathroom plumbing

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Your trusted, local same-day plumbers

Some of our recent work....

New toilet, basin and shower pump.

Reading customer – Yash.

Concealed shower repair/replacement.

Reading customer – Stephen

Stephen got in touch asking if we’d take a look at his concealed thermostatic shower – that was dripping from the shower head and bath.

The shower had been put in when the period house he owned the apartment in was converted in 2012.

Removing the shower’s faceplate, the shower cartridges were seized and corroded into the valve housing. Discussing this with Stephen – it was more economical to replace the unit than to repair it.

With the party wall holding the shower put in after the shower had been installed, there was insufficient room to remove the unit. The meant carefully taking off the surrounding tiles and cutting through batons etc.

After the replacement shower was tested, new batons were fixed, tiles replaced (without breakage) and the face plate sealed with silicone.

The quickest way to get in touch to discuss your bathroom’s plumbing is to WhatsApp, text or phone us on 07442966664.

You can also email plumbing@angusplumbing.co.uk or use the form – and well get back to you as soon as we can.

The AngusPLUMBING team

Bathroom plumbing - repairs and renovation

Our bathroom plumbing services involve a mix of new installations (bathroom fitting and new fixtures, including sinks, taps, showers, bathtubs and toilets), urgent repairs (to toilets, showers, baths and pipes etc), leak detection & repair (fixing dripping taps, leaky pipes (visible or hidden), and running or overflowing toilets) as well as routine maintenance – drain cleaning and unblocking etc.

These ensure that your home’s most-used room remains functional, efficient and free from potential water damage.

Shower installation and repair
Bath(tub) installation and repair
Basin installation and repair
Bathroom fan installation

New bathroom installations, renovations and repairs

From initial planning to final finishing touches, we’ll manage the complete setup of your new bathroom or wet room that transform an existing space or creates a brand new one from scratch.

In the initial planning and design phase we’ll assess the existing space, your functional and practical requirements and of course discuss different styles so that whatever your budget you’ll have the bath/wet room that you and your family want.

During the consultation we’ll plan the layout together – so whether it’s a minor update or a full redesign the room meets your needs. This’ll include material selection – choosing sanitaryware (toilets, basins, baths, showers), tiles, flooring, lighting, and accessories.

Once the structural work and preparation’s are underway we’ll strip out and remove old fixtures, tiles, and outdated materials. And also modify walls (moving a stud wall) or reinforcing floors, which may require a builder.

The next stages are the first and second fix’s

First fix (rough-in): Installing hidden infrastructure, including hot and cold water supply lines, waste pipes, tanking and water proofing and soil stacks before walls are closed.

Second fix (finish): Connecting visible fixtures after walls are finished, such as:

Bathing/showering: Fitting bathtubs (freestanding or standard), shower enclosures, and wet rooms.
Fixtures: Installing mixers, taps, and shower heads.
Specialised items: Installing Jacuzzis, hot tubs, and heated towel rails.
Cleaning and aftercare: A final clean and walkthrough with the fitter will ensure everything is correct and as you want it, and they’ll also provide maintenance tips and advice.

Bathroom repairs

Bathroom repairs and renovations provide significant long-term financial, safety, and lifestyle advantages. Beyond immediate aesthetic improvements, addressing issues like leaky taps or cracked tiles prevents more expensive structural damage over time.

The primary benefits of bathroom repairs include –

Increased property value: Modernized bathrooms are a top priority for buyers. A well-executed renovation can add 3–5% to your home’s overall value, often recouping 60–70% of the investment at resale.
Lower utility bills: Replacing outdated fixtures with modern, energy-efficient alternatives can reduce monthly utility bills by 10–20%.Low-flow toilets and faucets significantly decrease water waste.LED lighting reduces electricity consumption while improving ambiance.
Enhanced safety and accessibility: Repairs allow you to eliminate hazards like slippery flooring. Features such as grab bars, walk-in showers, and anti-slip tiles future-proof the space for aging residents or those with mobility issues.
Prevention of costly damage: Fixing minor leaks, cracked grout, or damaged tiles prevents water from seeping into the subfloor, which can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and expensive structural repairs.
Improved hygiene and air quality: New materials like porcelain and quartz are naturally more resistant to bacteria. Upgrading to high-efficiency extractor fans with humidity sensors prevents mould and improves indoor air quality.
Optimised space and functionality: Renovations provide the opportunity to add smart storage solutions (e.g., floating vanities, recessed cabinets) and reconfigure awkward layouts to make daily routines more efficient.
Mental well-being: Transforming a utility space into a “home spa” with features like rainfall showerheads or heated floors creates a personal sanctuary for relaxation and stress relief.

Over 90% of the bathroom repairs customers ask us to do in 2025 were:

Leaks and drips: Fixing leaking taps, toilets, showerheads, and hidden pipe leaks.
Toilet Issues: Repairing broken flushes, running toilets, and cracked cisterns.
Drainage: Clearing blocked toilets, sinks, and drains using tools like snaking or high-pressure hydro-jetting.
Water pressure improvement: Diagnosing and resolving low pressure issues, often by installing booster pumps.

Professional standards

For complex tasks, it is recommended to hire a licensed professional to ensure compliance with building codes and prevent costly water damage. Organisations like the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) provide directories for finding qualified local plumbers.

Showers - installation & repair

Shower installation and repair services include a range of tasks designed to install new units, fix existing problems, and ensure proper function and safety.

Installation services

Shower installation is a complex project involving various types of showers with differing costs and installation requirements. A professional installation generally costs between £300 and £1,500, with the total cost and time varying significantly based on the type of shower and the complexity of the existing pipework.

Key details and options

Average cost & time: A standard shower replacement can take 1-2 days with costs starting around £300. A full installation requiring new plumbing or electrical work may take 3-5 days and cost more.
Professional installation: Hiring a professional ensures the work is completed safely and in compliance with UK building regulations, which is crucial for electrical and major plumbing work. Professionals also offer guarantees on workmanship and can prevent costly mistakes like water damage or improper waterproofing.
DIY potential: Minor tasks like painting or installing accessories can be done by a confident DIY-er, but critical work such as plumbing and electrical connections should be left to certified experts.

Types of showers and considerations

The type of shower you choose heavily depends on your home’s existing water system and desired features.

Type of shower (typical cost [supply + installation] & key feature

Electric: £300 to £800. Heats water on demand, only needs cold water supply.

Mixer: £300 to £800. Mixes hot and cold water from existing supply, good for high pressure systems.
Power: £450 to £1,200. Includes an integrated pump to boost low water pressure.
Digital/smart: £600 to £1,500. Digital controls for precise temperature and flow, some with smart home compatibility.

Installation process overview

While the process varies by shower type, the general steps include:

Preparation: Turn off the main water and, if applicable, electrical supply. Remove any existing units or tiles.
Plumbing and wiring: Install or adjust pipework for hot and cold water supplies. For electric showers, a qualified electrician must handle the wiring to comply with safety standards.
Unit installation: Mount the shower unit (valve, head, and rail) to the wall, ensuring it is level and secure. Fitting shower trays, enclosures, screens, shower heads, and associated pipework.
Sealing and testing: Apply waterproof silicone sealant around all joints and the shower tray/enclosure. Restore the water supply and check thoroughly for any leaks before use.

Shower repair

Professional shower repairs in the UK cost an average of £168, typically ranging from £113 to £257, depending on the issue’s complexity.

Simple fixes like a minor leak or a clogged drain are significantly cheaper than extensive repairs involving hidden pipework or water damage to the surrounding structure.

Common shower repairs and estimated costs

Prompt repairs are crucial to prevent minor issues from escalating into expensive water damage, such as mould growth or rotten floorboards.

Repair type

Repair services focus on diagnosing and fixing common issues to restore full functionality and prevent water damage.

Fixing a minor leak: £100 – £200. Involves replacing seals or washers; often a quick job.
Unclogging a shower drain: Around £100. A plumber can clear blockages if DIY methods fail.
Replacing a shower mixing valve: £200 – £400. The cost varies for manual vs. thermostatic valves.
Repairing a cracked shower tray: £200 – £250 (labour). Prevents water from seeping into the subfloor.

Replacing a shower pump: Around £250 (install). A cost-effective solution for low water pressure issues.

Concealed pipework repairs:These services ensure that a shower, a daily necessity for many, remains operational and safe.

Key considerations

Professional expertise: For any work involving plumbing or electrical connections (especially electric showers), hiring a qualified professional is essential to ensure safety and compliance with UK building regulations.
Emergency repairs: Out-of-hours and emergencies for issues like a burst pipe typically cost more, often involving higher hourly rates.
DIY potential: Minor tasks like replacing a shower head or re-sealing the enclosure can be attempted by a confident DIY-er, but critical work should be left to certified experts.
Warranties: Professional repairs often come with a guarantee on both the labour and supplied parts, offering peace of mind.

Baths - installation & repair

Bath installation in the UK costs an average of £700, but prices vary widely depending on the type of bath. A simple replacement might cost £200-£400, while a luxury freestanding or walk-in bath installation can cost £1,000 to over £3,000 due to increased material and labour complexity.

For bath repairs, minor issues like chips, scratches, or small cracks typically cost between £125 and £350 to fix. Resurfacing or re-enamelling an entire bath costs around £450–£650 and can extend its lifespan by 5-10 years, saving the significant expense and disruption of a full replacement, which often starts around £3,000 for the unit and installation.

Key cost factors for bath services

Type of bath: Freestanding, cast iron, and walk-in baths are significantly more expensive to install than standard acrylic tubs.
Labour: Installation typically takes 2-5 hours for a standard bath, but complex jobs can take longer and require specialists, which increases the total labour cost.
Extent of work: Installation costs are higher if existing pipework needs to be moved or if additional trades like electricians (for a jacuzzi bath) or tilers are required.
Repair vs. replacement: For most cosmetic damage or minor cracks, repairing the existing bath is a much more cost-effective option than a full replacement.

Basin installation & repair

Basin installation in the UK typically costs between £150 and £400, depending on whether it is a replacement or a new fitting. A professional installation ensures correct plumbing and reliable results, while minor repairs like fixing leaks cost significantly less.

Basin installation details

The cost of installing a new basin (sink) varies based on the type of basin (e.g., pedestal, wall-hung, countertop) and the complexity of the job.

Average cost: A standard pedestal basin replacement might cost around £150–£250 in labour.
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New installation: If new pipework or extensive structural changes are needed (e.g., converting a wall-hung basin to a pedestal), costs can rise to £350 or more.
Labour: Most basin installations are a 2-3 hour job.
Professional expertise: Hiring a professional ensures watertight seals, correct waste disposal connections, and adherence to building regulations.

Common basin repairs and typical costs

Promptly fixing minor issues like leaks or drips prevents water damage to surrounding cabinets, walls, and flooring. Repair type –

Fixing a minor leak/drip: £100. Usually, a quick fix like replacing a washer or seal.
Unclogging a basin drain: Around £100. A plumber can clear stubborn blockages efficiently.
Replacing basin £100 – £200 (labour). Varies by tap style (mixer, pillar); installation is typically 1-2 hours.
Fixing a cracked basin: £100 – £300. Specialist repair kits can fix minor chips and cracks without full replacement.
Resealing the basin edge: £100. Essential for preventing water ingress into vanity units or walls.

Key considerations

DIY vs pro: Replacing existing taps or resealing is a suitable DIY job, but all major plumbing and installation work should be handled by a certified plumber.
Preventative maintenance: Simple maintenance like avoiding harsh chemicals in the drain and regularly checking for leaks can extend the life of your basin and taps.

Basin maintenance

Basin maintenance involves preventative care to ensure that the basin works safely and to the best of its ability. And’s key to preventing common and costly problems.

Prevent blockages: The primary cause of blockages is the accumulation of hair, soap scum, toothpaste, and skincare products.
Use strainers: Install a hair catcher or mesh drain guard to physically trap debris before it enters the pipes.Periodically remove and clean the pop-up stopper mechanism, as hair and gunk often collect here.
Weekly flush: Pour a kettle of hot (not boiling, especially for plastic pipes) water down the drain weekly to help dissolve soap residue and keep the flow clear.
Natural cleaners: Once a month, use a baking soda and vinegar solution (half a cup of each, let fizz for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water) to break down organic matter and neutralise odours.

Bathroom humidity & moisture control

Controlling bathroom humidity and moisture is essential to prevent costly damage including mould growth, peeling paint, and structural issues. The ideal humidity level for a bathroom generally is between 40% and 60%.

Immediate actions & daily habits

Ventilation during use: Always run the extractor fan or open a window during your shower or bath. Keep the bathroom door closed to contain moisture, preventing it from spreading to the rest of the house.
Post-use airing: Continue running the fan or leave the window open for at least 20–30 minutes after use to ensure all excess moisture is removed.
Wipe down surfaces: Use a squeegee or a dry towel to wipe down wet tiles, shower screens, and mirrors immediately after showering.
Dry towels elsewhere: Hang damp towels and bath mats in a well-ventilated area outside the bathroom (e.g., on a heated towel rail) to dry properly.
Shorter/cooler showers: Reducing shower time or lowering the water temperature slightly decreases the amount of steam produced.
Introduce plants: Certain humidity-loving plants like peace lilies or Boston ferns can naturally absorb some airborne moisture.

Equipment and upgrades

Extractor fans: A powerful, HVI-certified extractor fan is your primary defence. Consider upgrading to a model with a built-in humidity sensor that automatically turns on and off as needed, ensuring efficient operation.
Dehumidifiers: For bathrooms without windows or severe moisture issues, a portable electric dehumidifier can effectively pull excess water from the air. Smaller, non-electric moisture absorbers (like the UniBond Aero 360) can also help in small spaces.
Insulation and heating: Condensation forms on cold surfaces. Ensuring the bathroom is well-insulated and maintaining a consistent, warm temperature helps prevent this. Underfloor heating or heated towel rails can keep surfaces warm and speed up drying.
Moisture-resistant materials: When renovating, choose materials like porcelain tiles, acrylic shower surrounds, and anti-condensation paint on walls and ceilings, as they resist moisture absorption and mould growth better than standard drywall or plaster.
Fix leaks: persistent dampness and mould growth; check plumbing fixtures regularly and repair any leaks immediately.

Maintenance

Regular cleaning: Mould feeds on organic matter like dust and skin cells; maintain a regular cleaning schedule to prevent buildup.
Clean fans: Clean your extractor fan cover and blades at least twice a year to ensure optimal airflow.

By combining proper ventilation, mindful habits, and targeted solutions, you’ll manage bathroom moisture effectively and protect your home.

Other plumbing services....

Our local plumbers provide a range of expert plumbing services that’ll keep you and your family safe, save you money and your home running smoothly and as it should including:

Improving water pressure and flow (to see our work click here).
Leak detection (to see our work click here).

Water and waste pipe repair & maintenance (to see our work click here).

Unblocking waste systems (to see our work click here).

Dripping/running overflow pipe investigation (to see our work click here).
Turning off/isolating your homes water supply (to see our work click here).
Repairing and maintaining your home’s water tanks (to see our work click here).