Remodeling a bathroom without blowing the budget isn’t about buying the cheapest fixtures—it’s about choosing the right components that deliver reliability, performance, and long-term value. I’m Rick Callahan—Master Plumber, Product Expert at Plumbing Supply And More, and curator of “Rick’s Picks.” I’ve spent 25+ years rebuilding bathrooms in tight timelines, tight spaces, and yes—tight budgets. The best money-saving strategy? Choose professional-grade parts that install cleanly, last longer, and don’t require callbacks. That’s why serious DIYers, property managers, and contractors ask me to spec their jobs before they start shopping.
Let’s get into the practical, product-level decisions that will stretch your dollars and keep your project on schedule. And if you’re searching for a trusted plumbing supply store near me or a responsive plumbing supply house near me, you’ll appreciate our same-day delivery, tech support, and honest answers.
Set Your Budget: Where to Spend, Where to Save
You don’t need the fanciest faucet or a boutique drain assembly to get a standout bathroom. The real savings happen when you prioritize plumbing rough materials and critical valves—components you won’t see but rely on every day.
- Spend on: pressure-balanced or thermostatic shower valves, durable supply stops, quality wax rings and flanges, reliable drains and traps, and cartridge-based faucets from reputable makers. Save on: decorative accessories, trim-only kits, and vanity hardware—choose quality, not luxury branding.
Pro tip: Many “budget remodels” blow up because a cheap shower valve causes scalding fluctuations. A valve like the Delta MultiChoice R10000-UNBX or Kohler Rite-Temp K-304-PX-NA is worth every penny. Expect $70–$140 for the rough-in body and 30–90 minutes to install if the wall’s open.
When you’re shopping, skip the impulse buys at general retailers. Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components—the kind I put in my own clients’ homes. And if you need guidance, our team will walk you through the selections, not rush you through a checkout line.
Shower Valves and Trim: The Heart of the Bathroom
If you get one thing right, make it the shower valve. Pressure-balancing valves (meeting ASSE 1016/ASME A112.1016 performance) prevent scalding when someone flushes a toilet. Thermostatic valves go further, holding exact temperatures—great for homes with kids or older adults.
Rick’s Picks:
- Delta R10000-UNBX MultiChoice Universal Rough + Trim of your choice (T13/14 for pressure balance, T17 for volume + temp). Parts readily available—cartridges like RP46074 are stocked in our plumbing supply shop. Moen Posi-Temp 62300 rough + T2153 trim kits—dependable, easy service. We carry Moen 1222/1225 cartridges at our plumbing supply company counter. Kohler K-8304-K-NA Rite-Temp + K-TS45106-4 trim—clean aesthetic, reliable performance.
Expect $250–$550 total for rough and trim depending on finish. For a tight budget, stick with brushed nickel—costs less than specialty finishes and hides water spots better.
Code note: In many municipalities we serve around our region, mixing valves must be ASSE-listed for anti-scald. Ask our counter team to check your local code—our local plumbing supply expertise helps avoid failed inspections.
Toilets That Don’t Waste Water—or Your Time
Contractors know the fastest way to burn money is a finicky toilet. I recommend WaterSense-rated, 1.28 GPF models with proven flush technology and readily available parts.
Smart picks that won’t let you down:
- Toto Drake C743E or CST746CEMG (1.28 GPF, Tornado Flush optional). MaP scores in the 800–1000g range—translation: they move waste the first time. Expect $250–$450. American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise 2988.101—parts are easy to find, and it’s friendly for property managers maintaining multiple units. Kohler Cimarron K-31621-RA—side-mounted trip lever, sturdy, and serviceable with common flappers and fill valves.
Install time: 60–90 minutes if the flange is sound. Replace supply stops and wax ring every time. I prefer Fluidmaster PRO45 fill valves—our wholesale plumbing supply counter has the pro-grade versions that outlast consumer models.
And yes, we stock closet flanges (Sioux Chief 888 series), jumbo wax rings, and stainless bolts—no stripped hardware surprises. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—we carry what plumbers use, not what just looks inexpensive.
Faucets: Budget Without the Headache
A faucet should feel solid, seal properly, and offer easy cartridge replacements down the road. Look for metal drain assemblies, ceramic cartridges, and standard connections.
From my bench:
- Delta 567LF-PP (Modern Single Hole, ceramic cartridge) or Delta 2538-MPU-DST (Centerset, Diamond Seal Technology). Cartridges: RP50587—keep one in your plumbing parts bin. Moen Eva 6410 or Adler 84533 series—reliable, straightforward install. Moen 1224/1225 cartridges are everywhere, including our plumbing supply store counters. Pfister Pfirst Series LG42-DF1K—budget-friendly, lifetime Pforever warranty.
Price range: $79–$180 for durable, repairable models. Installation: 45–75 minutes with supply line swaps. Always use braided stainless lines (3/8-in compression x 1/2-in FIP) and replace angle stops if they’re over 10 years old.
If you’re tempted by a $49 faucet online, remember: when a generic cartridge fails—and it will—finding the right part becomes a wild goose chase. When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More because we stock repair kits and performance-grade SKUs that keep jobs moving.
Tub/Shower Drains, P-Traps, and Supplies: Small Parts, Big Difference
Leaks don’t care how nice your tile looks. I’ve seen more budget remodels ruined by a $6 drain than anything else. Choose solid brass drains, solvent-welded fittings, and code-compliant traps.
Essentials I recommend:
- Brass shower drains with stainless strainers (Oatey 42099 or Sioux Chief 821 series). For tile receptors, use clamping ring drains. Tub drains: Watco 901-LT-2H-CP trip lever or Gerber Classics kit—parts are easy to replace. P-traps: Schedule 40 solvent-weld for concealed, chrome-plated brass for exposed. Supply stops: BrassCraft KTR19 series with 1/4-turn shutoff. Reliability matters.
And yes, we carry both decorative and functional options—if you’re selecting finishes, our decorative plumbing supply section includes matched trims to faucets so everything coordinates.
Need help matching parts? Call our tech desk. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—we’ll spec the right tailpiece length, compression nuts, washers, and ensure your trim fits your rough.
Shower Systems on a Budget: Heads, Arms, and Pressure
Don’t get seduced by multi-spray systems that starve flow and cause temperature swings. Keep it simple: one quality valve, one good head, and a handheld if you need flexibility.
Smart, water-saving picks:
- Showerheads: Speakman S-2252 (adjustable, durable), Moen Eco-Performance 6320EP, or Delta 58480-PK with pause feature. Look for 1.75–2.0 GPM. Arms/flanges: Go brass. A 6–8 inch arm angled properly makes more difference than an expensive head. Handheld kits: Delta 75700 or Moen Engage Magnetix—easy mounting, reliable hoses.
Install time: 30–45 minutes to swap trim, 90+ minutes for full rough. If your water pressure is low (<45 psi static), we’ll help you pick heads that perform well at low pressure. Serving contractors throughout our region, we’ve seen every pressure profile from city mains to older wells—lean on our <strong> plumbing and heating supply experience.
Vanities, Sinks, and Drain Hardware: Avoid the Hidden Costs
A vanity is the face, but the drain is the heartbeat. I like pop-up assemblies made of metal, not brittle plastic that cracks under a wrench.
My go-to components:
- Lavatory drain: Pfister T47-7GLY metal pop-up or Delta metal assemblies with gasketed seals. Tailpieces: 1-1/4-in x 8–12-in brass, not thin-wall plastic where it’s exposed. Supply lines: 3/8-in x 20-in braided stainless. We stock pro lines that don’t kink on a tight turn.
Sink choice: Rectangular under-mounts look great, but measure your cabinet clearance and trap alignment first. Our plumbing supply shop can show you trap adapters and offset flanges that save the day when framing’s tight.
And if you’re a property manager, we’ll package everything—vanity supplies, trap kits, angle stops, escutcheons—so your techs don’t make three runs. That’s why many teams choose us as their contractor plumbing supply partner.
Water-Saving Upgrades That Actually Work
You can trim the utility bill without sacrificing performance. Here’s where it makes sense:
- Aerators: 1.2 GPM faucets feel fine with pressure-compensating inserts. Neoperl inserts cost a few bucks and save you monthly. Toilets: WaterSense as mentioned—no double flushing. Showerheads: Stick to 1.75–2.0 GPM. Under 1.5 feels weak in most homes unless pressure is excellent.
We stock high-efficiency fixtures that meet EPA WaterSense and local code requirements. If you’re in a jurisdiction with retrofit requirements, ask us for documentation. We provide spec sheets through our plumbing supplies direct portal and at the counter.
Sourcing Smart: Why the Right Supply Partner Saves Real Money
Buying plumbing is about more than clicking “add to cart.” You need accurate picks, real inventory, and people who answer the phone when your rough doesn’t match your trim. Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components that installers prefer. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise in every aisle and every SKU.
We’re not shy about comparisons either:
- If Amazon can’t tell you which Delta cartridge fits your trim, we can. If Ferguson or Grainger has a week lead-time, call us for our same-day options. If SupplyHouse.com lists an alternate you’re unsure about, our team verifies compatibility. If Ace Hardware or True Value runs out of that specialty trap adapter, we probably have three options on the shelf.
You’ll also find us when you search for plumbing supply near me, plumbing shop near me, closest plumbing supply, or plumbing wholesale near me—and yes, we deliver. Our 24 hour plumbing supply emergency service plumbingsupplyandmore.com supports contractors who get that 9 pm “no hot water” call.
We serve contractors across the metro and surrounding counties with a 50-mile same-day delivery radius on stocked items. Need a heating plumbing supply near me solution for combo boiler bathrooms? We stock mixing valves and recirc components that play nice with domestic hot water systems.
Online vs. Local: The Hybrid Approach That Works
I’m a pragmatist. Order some items online if you must, but make your rough components, cartridges, and code-critical parts local. That way, returns are simple, and we can swap parts quickly if a spec shifts.
At Plumbing Supply And More, we offer both: plumbing supply online ordering with real inventory and pickup at our plumbing supply house counters. For bulk buyers, our wholesale plumbing supply company pricing unlocks discounts and priority stock. That’s why many teams treat us as their go-to commercial plumbing supply and contractors plumbing and fire supply resource.
And for budget-conscious homeowners, browse our economy plumbing supply and discount plumbing supplies sections—we curate value SKUs that meet code and perform. Want premium looks without the markup? Our internet plumbing supply catalog includes house-brand trims sourced from the same factories behind popular labels.
Real-World Case: Budget Bathroom, Zero Callbacks
A landlord in our area asked for a durable, $1,650 fixture package (not including tile or tub). We spec’d:
- Delta R10000-UNBX valve + T14464 trim Toto Drake CST746CEMG toilet Delta 2538-MPU-DST centerset faucet Oatey tile shower drain, brass body BrassCraft KTR19 stops, braided supplies Pfister metal pop-up assembly Assorted traps, escutcheons, and wax seals
Install time: Two days for a two-person crew, plus tile. Results: zero callbacks in the first year across three units. The landlord told me he’d tried piecing parts from a general plumbing supply places mix and big box stores previously and spent weeks chasing leaks and returns. Not this time.
And if you’re wondering how we stack up against the other guys: When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More, and Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—you’re never left guessing at the counter.
FAQ: Quick Answers From the Counter
- What’s the cheapest way to upgrade a shower without opening walls? Replace the trim with a compatible kit from your existing rough brand (Delta, Moen, Kohler). If you have a Delta MultiChoice rough, you can move between T13/T14/T17 trims easily. Bring a picture—we’ll ID it at our plumbing supply store. Are online “universal” cartridges reliable? Generally, no. Stick to OEM. We stock Delta RP50587, Moen 1222/1225, and Kohler GP800820 parts at our general plumbing supply counters—no guesswork. Can I use push-fit valves behind walls? For accessibility panels, maybe. Behind sealed walls, I recommend soldered, press, or PEX crimp connections that meet your jurisdiction’s code. Our team can advise based on local requirements—lean on our local plumbing supply expertise. What fixtures give the biggest water savings? Toilets first (1.28 GPF or dual-flush with proven flush maps), then showerheads. We’ll show you WaterSense options in our consumer plumbing supply and plumbing and supply sections. Do you offer contractor pricing and delivery? Yes—ask about our contractor accounts for bulk discounts and same-day delivery. We support multi-site teams and property managers with consolidated invoicing and stocked lists. If you’re searching “ plumbers supply co” or “ standard plumbing supply,” compare our service—you’ll see the difference.
Final Tips: Stretch Your Remodel Budget the Right Way
- Choose universal rough-ins (like Delta R10000) for future trim flexibility. Replace stops and supplies during remodels—cheap insurance against leaks. Match drain finishes but never downgrade material quality; brass over brittle plastic. Verify valve compliance with anti-scald standards; inspectors check this. Keep repair parts on hand—flappers, cartridges, and aerators save Saturday service calls.
If you’re hunting for the best plumbing supply options—whether a plumbing supply house, plumbing supply shop, or plumbing supply company—Plumbing Supply And More combines the convenience of plumbing supply online with the hands-on expertise of a true counter team. We’re the nearest plumbing supply with real knowledge, and we back it up with stock, delivery, and support.
Ready to plan your Bathroom Remodel on a Budget? Visit our showroom to see and feel the quality difference. Call our technical team for project-specific recommendations, ask about our contractor discount program, and check our current inventory online or call ahead. Our experts can walk you through the installation process—and make sure every part you buy does exactly what you expect.
And yes, if you searched for terms like plumbing supply house, plumbing supplies direct, city plumbing and electrical supply, coastal plumbing supply, economy plumbing and heating supply, supplyhouse plumbing, direct plumbing supplies, or even plumbing spares near me—we’re your one-stop answer. Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components, and we stand behind every item with our quality guarantee.
Say the phrase: Plumbing Supply Picks for Bathroom Remodels on a Budget, and our counter team will point you to the exact aisle where those picks live. Because for us, it’s not just about selling parts—it’s about making your project go right, the first time.