Last Updated on October 14, 2025 by SampleBoard

You just spent thousands on a sleek new shower, shiny tiles, and trendy black faucets. Your bathroom looks like a dream. But then, the sink starts to drain slowly. The tub gurgles. And next thing you know, water backs up under that fancy new floor. If you skip drain work before a bathroom remodel, you could be flushing money down the drain.

Don’t Let a Clog Undo All That Hard Work

Remodels hide old pipes. Once tile and drywall go up, it’s hard to reach the plumbing again without tearing things apart.

That’s why it’s smart to check your drains first. One small clog can cause water damage, mold, and rot that ruins your new space.

Most people don’t think about drains unless they stop working. But hair, soap, grease, and buildup add up fast. And in older homes, pipes can already be part-clogged or corroded.

Before you lay tile or install a vanity, call a pro for Indianapolis Drain Cleaning. A quick cleaning now can save you thousands later.

It’s like brushing your teeth before you put on lipstick—small step, big difference.

Signs You Need Drain Help Before the Bathroom Remodel

Here are a few red flags:

• Water drains slowly, even after using a plunger
• You smell sewer gas or musty odors
• Gurgling sounds from the pipes
• Backups in the tub or sink
• You’ve had clogs before

These are all signs your drains need work. And if you're planning to close those pipes behind tile or cabinets, now is your only good shot to fix it.

What Happens If You Skip It?

Let’s say you remodel first. You install a new vanity, seal your tile, and start using your new bathroom. A few months later, a slow leak starts. Water creeps into the walls. Mold grows. The vanity swells and warps.

Now you're not just calling a plumber. You’re calling a contractor, maybe a mold specialist, and redoing parts of your remodel. It's a chain reaction that could have been avoided with a simple cleanout or camera check.

Common Causes of Hidden Clogs

Hidden clogs form slowly. They’re not dramatic at first, but they quietly grow into big issues. Here’s what usually causes them:

• Hair and Soap Residue: The main culprits in bathroom drains. Hair tangles easily with soap, creating stubborn blockages deep in the pipes.

• Grease and Oils: They seem harmless when washed down, but these substances solidify and stick to pipe walls.

• Corrosion: Metal pipes in older homes rust and narrow over time, making even small blockages problematic.

• Tree Roots: Surprisingly common, roots find tiny cracks in pipes, entering and expanding until they completely block the flow.

Knowing what might lurk in your drains helps you appreciate why a thorough check is crucial.

Understanding the Risks: Mold and Structural Damage

When water backs up behind new drywall or under tiles, the moisture feeds mold and mildew.

Mold can lead to serious health problems, including respiratory issues and allergies. Structural damage occurs as drywall swells, wood rots, and tiles loosen.

Insurance might not cover this damage if neglect is involved. By proactively cleaning your drains, you significantly reduce this costly risk.

How Drain Cleaning Works (And Why It’s Fast)

Don’t picture a week-long mess. Professional drain cleaning is fast and tidy. Plumbers use tools like motorized snakes, hydro-jetters, and drain cameras to:

• Remove clogs and buildup
• Check for damage or corrosion
• Clean the full length of the pipe

If there's a bigger issue, like tree roots or collapsed lines, you’ll catch it early. And that means you can fix it before it wrecks your new space.

The Power of Camera Inspections

One of the most effective tools in modern plumbing is the drain camera. A plumber inserts a small, waterproof camera into the pipes to visually identify problems. This method quickly reveals:

• The exact location of the clogs
• Extent of corrosion or buildup
• Presence of roots or cracks

This precise diagnosis means targeted repairs, saving you both time and money.

Planning Your Bathroom Remodel Timeline With Drains in Mind

Add 1-2 days for plumbing inspection and cleaning before your demo starts. Here's a quick sequence:

1. Schedule a drain check-up
2. Get a camera inspection (especially in older homes)
3. Clean the lines
4. Approve the remodel plan
5. Start your demo

That tiny bit of extra time gives you peace of mind—and keeps your new bathroom safe.

The Bonus: Better Water Flow and Fewer Smells

Clean drains don’t just protect your remodel. They make daily life better:

• No standing water in the sink
• No funky odors
• Faster drain times
• Less risk of gunk buildup in new fixtures

It’s one of those things you don’t notice until it goes wrong—then you wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

Choosing the Right Professional for Drain Cleaning

Your handyman might be great at tile, but drains are a different beast. Always hire a licensed plumber who specializes in drain work.

They’ll use professional gear, spot issues you can’t see, and help you avoid big surprises down the road.

Questions to ask before hiring:

• Are you licensed and insured?
• Do you use camera inspections?
• How long will the cleaning take?
• Will this protect my remodel long-term?

Think of hiring a drain specialist as insurance for your remodel.

How Often Should You Clean Your Drains?

Regular maintenance keeps drains healthy. Here's a simple guideline:

• Annual Cleaning: Best practice for homeowners.
• Every 6 Months: Ideal for older homes or heavy usage.
• Immediate Cleaning: If you spot slow draining or odors.

Regular check-ups prevent minor issues from turning into major headaches.

DIY Drain Care Tips for Homeowners

Between professional cleanings, you can maintain your drains:

• Use drain screens to catch hair.
• Avoid washing oils or grease down sinks.
• Regularly flush drains with hot water.
• Try natural cleaning solutions like vinegar and baking soda monthly.

Small steps like these significantly extend the health of your drains.

Case Study: How Drain Cleaning Saved One Remodel

Consider the story of an Indianapolis homeowner, Sarah. She scheduled drain cleaning before her remodel.

The plumber found significant corrosion and a partial clog. By addressing these problems early, Sarah avoided potential leaks and damage behind her newly installed tile.

Her remodel remained beautiful—and worry-free.

Wrap-Up: Start Clean, Stay Clean

Before you install the dream shower or that Pinterest-worthy sink, start with the basics. Your bathroom can’t shine if the pipes underneath are clogged.

Call a pro. Clean the lines. Protect your remodel. A small step today keeps your remodel safe tomorrow.