> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://allstarreno.com/docs/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Waterproofing and Plumbing Updates During a Bathroom Remodel > Plan waterproofing and plumbing updates for a bathroom remodel in Conway and Central Arkansas so wet areas stay dry and fixtures work as expected. Plan waterproofing and plumbing before finishes go in. In a bathroom remodel, that means protecting wet walls and floors, confirming drain and valve locations, and updating supply lines when they are worn. Doing this work while the room is open is usually simpler and cleaner than fixing leaks later in Conway, Maumelle or elsewhere in Central Arkansas. Last reviewed: November 6, 2026 · Serving Conway and Central Arkansas Water is the biggest long-term risk in a bath. A clear plan for waterproofing and plumbing keeps the remodel on track and protects the structure behind the pretty finishes. ## What to decide before demolition 1. **Keep or move the drain and toilet?** Moving a drain or toilet adds plumbing scope. Keeping fixtures in place is often faster. 2. **Tub, shower or both?** Showers and tubs need continuous waterproofing in the wet zone. See [Bathtub replacement](https://allstarreno.com/docs/planning/bathtub-replacement.md) and [Walk-in vs. tub-to-shower](https://allstarreno.com/docs/materials/walk-in-shower-vs-tub-to-shower.md). 3. **Valve and showerhead height.** Confirm comfortable heights for everyone who uses the bath, including handheld options for accessibility. 4. **Vanity plumbing.** Sink location, shut-offs and trap clearances affect vanity size. See [Choosing a vanity](https://allstarreno.com/docs/materials/choosing-a-vanity.md). 5. **Ventilation.** A working bath fan helps move moist air out. Pair it with good habits in [Preventing mold & moisture](https://allstarreno.com/docs/care/preventing-mold-and-moisture.md). > [!TIP] > > In older Faulkner County homes, open the walls and you may find mixed pipe materials, clogged vents or soft subfloor. Budget a contingency for hidden plumbing repairs discovered during demo.\* ## Waterproofing basics (homeowner view) **1. Define the wet zone** Shower and tub walls, the shower floor or tub deck, and often the floor outside a low-threshold shower need a continuous waterproofing approach suited to the finish system. **2. Prep a sound substrate** Framing and substrate should be solid and dry before waterproofing. Soft spots get repaired first. **3. Install the waterproofing system** Membrane, pan liner or waterproof panel systems are installed per manufacturer instructions, with special care at corners, niches and drain connections. **4. Flood-test when required** Some shower pans are tested with water before walls are closed. Ask what testing your project includes. **5. Finish with compatible materials** Wall panels or tile, sealants and trim must work with the waterproofing underneath. Grout-free wall panels are one option many Central Arkansas homeowners choose for easier upkeep. ## Plumbing updates worth considering while the room is open * Replace worn shut-off valves under the sink or at the tub. * Update the shower valve if it is outdated, hard to get parts for or does not meet current comfort needs. * Confirm the toilet supply and wax seal (or equivalent) when flooring changes. * Address low pressure or slow drains before new fixtures are set. > [!WARNING] > > Always shut off water at the correct valve before any fixture work. If you are unsure where the main shut-off is, locate it before an emergency. For after-hours leaks, see [Handyman emergencies](https://allstarreno.com/docs/care/handyman-emergencies.md). ## How this fits a full remodel Waterproofing and plumbing are foundation steps inside a [full bathroom remodel](https://allstarreno.com/bathroom-remodeling/full-bathroom-remodel). Packages are Premier \$5,000–\$7,499, Signature \$7,500–\$9,999 and Designer \$10,000–\$12,500+, with the final price confirmed at a free in-home quote. Most shower replacements take about 1–2 days once materials are ready; fuller remodels take longer when vanity, flooring and plumbing moves are included.\* ## Frequently asked questions > [accordion] Can waterproofing wait until after tile or panels are chosen? > > Choose the finish system early. Waterproofing details change between tile assemblies and waterproof wall panel systems. > [accordion] Do plumbing changes need a permit? > > Often yes, depending on the city or county and the scope. See [Permits in Conway & Faulkner County](https://allstarreno.com/docs/planning/permits-conway-faulkner-county.md). > [accordion] What if you find water damage behind the walls? > > Damaged substrate is repaired before new waterproofing. That discovery work is why open estimates leave room for unseen conditions.\* ## Related services and areas > [card] [Full bathroom remodel](https://allstarreno.com/bathroom-remodeling/full-bathroom-remodel) > > Waterproofing, plumbing and finishes in one plan. > [card] [Handyman repairs](https://allstarreno.com/handyman-services/repairs) > > Fixture and leak repairs when you are not remodeling. > [card] [Conway bathroom remodeling](https://allstarreno.com/bathroom-remodeling/conway) > > Local remodel help in Conway. > [card] [Maumelle bathroom remodeling](https://allstarreno.com/bathroom-remodeling/maumelle) > > Serving Maumelle and nearby communities. * **Also nearby:** [Greenbrier](https://allstarreno.com/bathroom-remodeling/greenbrier) · [Vilonia](https://allstarreno.com/bathroom-remodeling/vilonia) · [more Central Arkansas communities](https://allstarreno.com/service-areas) * **Next step:** [Request a free in-home quote](https://allstarreno.com/contact) or call [(501) 504-3398](tel:5015043398) All-Star Renovations has served Central Arkansas since 2014. We are veteran-owned; licensed, insured, and workers' comp covered; with in-house, certified pros. *** \*Timelines, costs and results described here are typical examples, not guarantees. Every home is different; your project, pricing and schedule are confirmed in your written estimate and contract. ## Related topics - [Bathtub Replacement: What's Involved and When to Replace](https://allstarreno.com/docs/planning/bathtub-replacement.md) - [Vanity and Storage Planning Guide](https://allstarreno.com/docs/materials/choosing-a-vanity.md) - [How Long Does a Remodel Take?](https://allstarreno.com/docs/planning/project-timelines.md) - [What Affects Bathroom Remodel Cost?](https://allstarreno.com/docs/costs/bathroom-cost-factors.md) - [How to Budget for a Home Remodel](https://allstarreno.com/docs/costs/budgeting-your-remodel.md) This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.