A home is one of the best investments because the value of property in the real estate market is usually on a steady rise. However, if you want to sell your house and get the best possible bid on it, you should consider sprucing it up a bit. A good place to start is with your plumbing. Plumbing upgrades not only ensure a home functions smoothly but also guarantee the plumbing system's longevity and safety. Here are some improvements you ought to think about before listing your home and inviting potential buyers.

Pipe Insulation

It gets really cold in Ocean County during winter, and when that happens, it's common for water inside pipes to freeze. When water freezes, it expands, exerting excessive pressure on the pipe walls, leading to hairline cracks. The short-term consequence is that water won’t reach the taps and other outlets. 

The long-term consequence is far more significant. When the ice thaws, water will leak through the formed cracks. The results of this can include mold growth and proliferation, peeling paint, warping and rotting wood, a weakened foundation, and the deterioration of structural integrity. No one would want to buy into those potential problems.

However, if you insulate your pipes, the prospective buyers' confidence and sense of security will significantly increase. Insulated pipes save energy and reduce heat loss, protect against freezing, prevent condensation, and make your home safer.

Insulated pipes save energy by limiting heat transfer in and out of the pipe. For instance, if the pipes are behind the walls, the home will generally lose warmth faster because the uninsulated pipes will act as a conduit of heat escape. Your HVAC system will have to work harder and run for longer to maintain the same level of comfort. Moreover, if you have a boiler or water heater, the hot water traveling to its designated destination will retain heat more efficiently if the pipes are insulated.

Condensation, which occurs naturally on plumbing pipes, can accelerate corrosion and encourage mold growth around the pipes. Adding insulation eliminates this issue, ultimately extending the life span of your plumbing system and maintaining a healthier indoor environment.

There are various insulation materials you can use for your pipes in Ocean County. Be sure to consult with a qualified plumber to choose the best for your unique situation. Let's examine some of the options.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass insulation is typically the best at resisting heat loss. However, it is bulky to install and may not be ideal for wet areas.

Rubber

Rubber holds up well to both temperature changes and moisture. It is also flexible, easier to install, and durable. In addition, it has sound-dampening capabilities. However, it is usually more expensive when compared to other insulation options.

Foam

Foam insulation effectively minimizes heat loss or gain, prevents condensation and frost formation, absorbs sound vibrations, and is generally cost-effective. The only caveat is that it must be installed properly and carefully. Foam can expand and cause potential cracks in the pipes. It also makes it difficult to access the pipes for repairs or maintenance.

Upgrading Fixtures

Fixtures help keep water flowing to where it is needed, making them the cornerstone of your plumbing system. Today, potential home buyers look beyond their mere functionality. They are also interested in aesthetics and efficiency. Investing in modern, stylish fixtures can make a huge difference in your bargaining power.

Faucets are statement pieces that can elevate the appearance of your kitchen and bathroom. Look for classic, high-quality options. For example, you can upgrade to a four-hole faucet that includes a separate sprayer or soap dispenser plus hot and cold handles.

The faucet should also match your décor to create a harmonious and cohesive design. Your choices include finishes in chrome, which is classic, easy to clean, and often budget-friendly; bronze, which gives a rich, traditional look; and warm, contemporary nickel. Unique, modern fixtures can be as luxurious as you'd like.

Regardless of your choice, ensure your faucet has water-saving capabilities. Some features to look for include aerator technology, flow restrictors, WaterSense certification, sensor-activated operation, and low flow rate.

For your sinks, consider size and depth, material, drain height, and style. Self-rimming sinks are quite popular today for their ease of installation and versatility.

If upgrading your toilets, transition to a model with WaterSense certification. Without compromising performance, they use less water for each flush. If you want to take things a notch higher and add a touch of luxury, install a bidet smart toilet that sprays the user after elimination. These toilets often have additional features like heated seats, adjustable water pressure, and automatic flushing.

Lastly, for your bathtub and shower fixtures, consider options like rainfall showerheads, handheld sprayers, and thermostatic valves for precise temperature control. The tub itself should feel like a spa.

Add a Water Filtration System

Clean, pure water is what makes a home truly comfortable and safe. Filtered water reduces waterborne disease, improves skin and hair health, and protects the plumbing system and appliances. When a potential buyer knows that you recently invested in water filtration and softening devices, they’ll be willing to pay a premium for the added health benefits and convenience.

Depending on your budget and goals, there are two main categories of water filtration systems you can install. These are point-of-use (POU) and point-of-entry (POE) filters.

Point-of-use filters are installed at a single water outlet, like a kitchen or bathroom sink, and provide water directly from that tap. They are very affordable.

A point-of-entry filter is installed at the main water supply line where water first enters a home. It is often the better option as it ensures every drop of water from whichever outlet is safe and clean for use. It also helps prolong the life span of your plumbing system by preventing sediment and contaminants from entering the pipes, thus reducing the risk of clogs, corrosion, and other damage.

The type of filter to choose for your POE or POU system should be based on the contaminants present in your water supply. For example, if your pollutants include organic substances, chlorine, agricultural chemicals, and malodorous particles, activated carbon filters are highly effective. For bacterial and viral contaminants, UV filters that use ultraviolet light to kill microorganisms are your best option.

If your water supply contains high levels of dissolved minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and aluminum, which cause hard water, a water softener can be a valuable addition. Be sure to consult with a qualified plumber to test your water and recommend a tailored solution.

Reach Out to Your Local Plumbing Professionals for More Information

Before you put your property on the market, consult with the team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Ocean County to assess your plumbing system. Our experienced professionals will provide a thorough evaluation and recommend the most effective upgrades while considering the current market trends and potential return on investment.

You can also contact us for other services, including plumbing installation, maintenance, and repair, and sewer line inspections and replacements. Call us at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Ocean County today to discuss plumbing upgrades anywhere in or near Beachwood, NJ.