Laundry Room Potty: Installation Guide

Adding a potty to your laundry room can be a convenient solution, especially if it's located in a basement or far from the nearest bathroom. It may also increase the value of your home. However, it requires careful planning and consideration of plumbing and electrical requirements.

If you're creating a new bathroom where a laundry room once stood, you'll need to modify the plumbing. Your old washer likely had a hot and cold-water source pipe and a discharge pipe. For the new bathroom, these source pipes will need to be extended to accommodate the sink, shower, and toilet. Additionally, you'll require discharge pipes for each of these fixtures. It's best to consult a professional plumber for advice and to determine if a building permit is necessary.

Regarding electrical work, laundry rooms typically have special outlets for washers and dryers, which will need to be replaced with standard GFCI outlets for your bathroom. An electrician can advise on the safe placement of outlets and switches, ensuring they are located away from the shower or bath.

When designing your new space, create a floor plan to identify the placement of the sink, toilet, and shower or tub. Consider your storage needs and whether you'll add a vanity or towel rack. Proper waterproofing is also crucial, especially for tiled shower walls and the subfloor.

Finally, adding a supply line to the toilet is essential, and only cold water is required for flushing and filling.

Consult a professional electrician about swapping laundry room outlets for standard GFCI outlets

If you're thinking of adding a potty to your laundry room, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll need to hire a professional to install the necessary plumbing and electrical work. This is important, as you'll want to ensure that your laundry room has the correct electrical outlets and wiring to support the addition of a potty.

In particular, you should consult a professional electrician about swapping the laundry room outlets for standard Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets. GFCI outlets are designed to protect against electrical shock and are required by law in certain areas of the home, including laundry rooms. According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), GFCI protection is required for any 125 to 250-volt receptacles supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to the ground.

GFCI outlets have two buttons on their face: "TEST" and "RESET". They continuously monitor the electrical current and will automatically shut off the power in a fraction of a second if a ground fault occurs, helping to prevent electrical injury. This is especially important in laundry rooms, where water is often present.

When hiring an electrician to install GFCI outlets, it's important to ensure they are licensed and follow the latest NEC guidelines. The NEC is updated every three years to include revised electrical code guidelines, so it's crucial that your electrician is aware of the most recent requirements.

By consulting a professional electrician and ensuring your laundry room has the appropriate GFCI outlets, you can help create a safer environment for your family and protect against electrical hazards.

Consult a professional plumber to advise on building permits and pipe layout

Adding a potty to your laundry room can be a complex process, and it's important to consult a professional plumber to advise on building permits and pipe layout. Here are some reasons why:

Firstly, a professional plumber will be well-versed in the local plumbing codes and regulations. They can guide you through the process of obtaining the necessary permits and ensure that your project complies with all applicable laws. This includes knowledge of national plumbing codes, as well as state and county-specific regulations that supersede them. By consulting a professional, you can avoid costly mistakes and delays in your project.

Secondly, a professional plumber can create a detailed plumbing plan for your laundry room. This plan will map out the water supply lines, drains, vent pipes, valves, and fixtures, ensuring that everything is installed correctly and meets the required standards. A good plumbing plan can help prevent surprises during the installation process and minimize the need for extra trips to the supply store. It will also be beneficial when applying for any necessary permits.

Additionally, a professional plumber will be able to advise on the pipe layout, ensuring that all the fixtures are correctly spaced and installed. They will consider factors such as pipe sizes, fitting types, and valve locations, which are crucial for the proper functioning of the plumbing system. A professional will also be able to advise on the best pipe materials and fixtures for your specific needs, taking into account factors such as water pressure and usage demands.

Furthermore, a professional plumber can assess the existing plumbing in your home and advise on any necessary modifications or adjustments. They will have the expertise to identify potential issues and ensure that any new installations are compatible with your current systems. This can help prevent future problems, such as overloaded plumbing systems or unsafe conditions.

Finally, a professional plumber will be familiar with the special inspection requirements that may be necessary for your project. They can guide you through the process, ensuring that your installation meets all safety standards and is properly approved by the relevant authorities.

In conclusion, consulting a professional plumber is essential when adding a potty to your laundry room. They can advise on building permits, create detailed plumbing plans, ensure correct pipe layout and spacing, assess your existing plumbing, and guide you through any necessary special inspections. By working with a professional, you can ensure that your project is completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all relevant regulations.

Design the new space, including where to place the sink, toilet, and shower or tub

When designing your new bathroom, it is important to consider the placement of each fixture to ensure a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. Here is a proposed design for your new laundry room, taking into account the location of the sink, toilet, and shower or tub:

Space Planning and Layout

Begin by drawing a floor plan of your laundry room to scale. This will help you visualize the space and determine the best layout for your fixtures. Consider the dimensions of the room and the amount of space needed for each fixture.

Sink Placement

The sink, being a key component of the laundry room, should be placed near your work area, ideally close to the washer. This allows for easy access to hot and cold water sources and a drain point. If your laundry room has enough space, you may opt for a larger vanity with drawers and cupboard space beneath the sink for added storage.

Toilet Placement

The toilet should be placed near existing drains to simplify the plumbing process and reduce costs. Consult with a plumber to determine the optimal location for the toilet, taking into account the layout of your drainage pipes.

Shower or Tub Placement

When deciding between a shower or a tub, consider your personal preferences and the amount of space available. If you opt for a shower, ensure it is placed near existing water supply lines to minimize the need for extensive plumbing work. If you prefer a tub, consider a freestanding option, which can be placed against a wall or in a corner, depending on the shape of your room.

Additional Considerations

Don't forget to include storage solutions in your design, such as cabinets or shelves, to keep your laundry room organized and efficient. Proper lighting is also essential, so consider adding an overhead light near the shower or tub, and additional lighting above the sink.

Remember to consult with professionals, such as plumbers and electricians, to ensure that your design is feasible and compliant with local building codes and regulations.

Install liquid or sheet membranes behind shower walls to ensure the room is waterproof

Adding a potty to your laundry room can be a great idea, especially if you have kids. However, it is important to ensure that the room is waterproof to prevent any potential water damage. Here are some detailed instructions on how to install liquid or sheet membranes behind your shower walls to achieve that:

Step 1: Understand the Different Types of Waterproofing Membranes

There are four main types of shower wall and floor membranes: sheet membranes, liquid membranes, foam wallboards, and foam shower bases. Each of these products has its own unique features and benefits.

Step 2: Choose the Right Waterproofing Membrane for Your Project

When choosing a waterproofing membrane, consider factors such as ease of installation, cost, and durability. Sheet membranes, such as the Schluter Kerdi Waterproofing Membrane, are made from plastic compounds and can be attached to the surface of the tile backer board with thin-set mortar or a "peel and stick" method. Liquid membranes, like RedGard Waterproofing Membrane, are applied with a paint roller and dry to form a flexible, rubber-like layer. Foam wallboards, such as Kerdi Board, serve as both structural support and a waterproofing layer. Foam shower bases, which are often sold as part of a kit, provide a waterproof surface for your shower floor.

Step 3: Prepare the Surface

Before installing the waterproofing membrane, ensure that the surface is clean and free of any debris. If you are using a liquid membrane, you may need to apply a bonding agent to the surface of the backer board to improve adhesion.

Step 4: Install the Waterproofing Membrane

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific waterproofing membrane you have chosen. For sheet membranes, cut the membrane to size and attach it to the surface using thin-set mortar or the "peel and stick" method. For liquid membranes, use a paint roller or sprayer to apply an even coat, ensuring that you achieve the recommended thickness. Allow the membrane to dry completely before applying a second coat, if necessary.

Step 5: Seal the Seams and Corners

For sheet membranes, use pre-formed membrane pieces or sealant tape to seal the corners and seams. For liquid membranes, you may need to reinforce the corners and seams with fiberglass mesh tape before applying the second coat.

Step 6: Install the Tiles

Once the waterproofing membrane is fully cured, you can proceed to install your tiles using thin-set mortar. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific membrane and tile products you are using.

By following these steps and choosing the appropriate waterproofing membrane for your project, you can ensure that your laundry room potty is fully waterproof and protected from potential water damage.

Add a supply line to the toilet, but only cold water is needed

Adding a toilet to your laundry room can be a great idea, especially if you're converting a room into a bathroom. Here's a detailed guide on how to add a supply line to the toilet, which will provide the necessary water connection for flushing. Remember, only cold water is needed for the toilet's supply line.

Step 1: Measure and Prepare

First, measure the distance between the water supply valve and the point where the line connects to the toilet tank. Include an extra inch or two for slack. Take photos of your current setup to ensure you get the right parts.

Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the water supply valve and turn it clockwise to shut off the water flow to the toilet. If it's a quarter-turn ball valve, a slight turn will do; if it's a gate valve, turn it several times clockwise. If the valve is stuck, you may need to seek further instructions.

Step 3: Empty the Toilet Tank

Place a bucket or bowl beneath the toilet tank and flush to remove most of the water. Use a cup or sponge to remove any remaining water from the tank and bowl.

Step 4: Remove the Old Supply Line

Use a crescent or open-ended wrench to unscrew the fitting from the supply valve, turning counterclockwise. Then, repeat this process to disconnect the line from the toilet tank. Be careful not to break the porcelain tank.

Step 5: Purchase a New Supply Line

Take the old supply line with you to the hardware store to ensure you get a replacement that fits. Choose a braided stainless-steel flex tube or hose, which is flexible and durable. It should cost around $5 to $15. Make sure the ends match the size of your old supply line.

Step 6: Connect the New Supply Line

Attach the large end of the new supply line to the toilet tank's fill valve nipple. Hand-tighten the plastic nut, being careful not to overtighten to avoid damaging the tank. Then, connect the small end to the nipple on the angle stop valve and hand-tighten. Use a wrench to tighten the connection just a bit more, but no more than a quarter turn past hand-tight.

Step 7: Turn On the Water and Check for Leaks

Turn on the water supply and carefully inspect both ends of the new line for any drips or leaks. If you notice a leak, gently tighten the nut at the leaking end to seal the connection. Dry the tube, flush the toilet, and check again to ensure there are no leaks.

Now you've successfully added a supply line to your new toilet! Remember to always follow local plumbing codes and regulations, and don't hesitate to consult a professional plumber if you have any doubts or issues.

Frequently asked questions