Tips And TricksUpdated July 3, 2026
Adding a pot filler or a second sink during a kitchen remodel is a smart move for many Kenilworth homeowners. With so many houses in the village built before the 1950s and sitting on generous lots, kitchens are often spacious enough to support these upgrades. But with the age and style of local plumbing systems, these projects can bring some challenges. We've handled a lot of kitchen remodels around the north suburbs, and there are a few things you need to know before you start tearing up walls or countertops.
Why Kenilworth Kitchens Benefit from a Pot Filler or Second Sink
In homes with older layouts, the kitchen often serves as a central hub. A pot filler above the stove means fewer trips carrying heavy pots from the sink. It's also helpful for anyone who likes to cook big family meals or batch prepare soups and pasta. A second sink, often called a prep sink, lets more than one person work at the same time and keeps mess separated. Both features can add convenience and might even boost resale value in higher-end markets like Kenilworth.
Plumbing Challenges in Older Kenilworth Homes
Most homes in Kenilworth have plumbing that's several decades old. Many of the original systems were built with galvanized steel or cast iron pipes. By now, these materials can be corroded, restricting water flow or causing minor leaks out of sight. Clay-rich soils in Cook County also put stress on foundation plumbing, so we often spot repairs or retrofits when working in crawl spaces or basements. If your home still has older pipes, you might want to look at our repiping services during your remodel.
It's also common for the water supply to be routed in a way that limits expansion. Running a new cold-water line for a pot filler, or both hot and cold for a second sink, may involve opening up walls or cabinets more than you expect. You'll want to check for potential issues like:
- Restricted access due to plaster, lath, or brick walls
- Proximity to older wiring or heating runs
- Lack of shutoff valves on branch supply lines
- Limited water pressure from original pipes or fixtures
Planning the Pot Filler What to Consider
A pot filler needs a dedicated cold-water line, usually tapped from the nearest supply. Placement is key, most are installed 12 to 18 inches above the cooking surface, and there should always be a shutoff valve nearby so you can cut off water for repairs. In older homes, we're careful to check for stable wall framing and avoid cutting into any structural supports.
Pot fillers aren't meant for hot water, and pipes running through poorly insulated exterior walls may freeze during Kenilworth's cold winters. We often recommend running that supply through interior walls when possible, or wrapping it with insulation if it can't be avoided. If you've ever worried about low water pressure at the kitchen faucet, get that checked before you add another tap. Addressing these issues now saves headaches down the road, and dealing with corrosion early can prevent unexpected trouble. For any fixture installation, our crew can walk you through the options at faucet and fixture installation.
Second Sink Location and Drainage
Adding a prep sink often means finding space on an island or secondary counter. This requires both water supply lines and a drain connection. In some Kenilworth kitchens, you might need to run new drain pipes across a crawl space or basement ceiling. Clay soil and high water tables in the area mean that any new drain line should be carefully sloped to prevent backups. Whenever we add a drain, we always include a new P-trap and check for venting, since proper venting prevents gurgling and bad smells.
Before connecting to the main drain, we inspect the condition of existing pipes, especially if they're cast iron. Sometimes cleaning the pipes with a method like hydro jetting helps avoid problems with slow drainage. We also keep an eye out for issues that could lead to leaks behind walls, which is why our leak detection services can come in handy during a remodel.
Water Quality and Pressure Concerns
Kenilworth receives municipal water from Lake Michigan, which is moderately hard. Over time, scale can build up in fixtures and valves, especially in older kitchens. When we install a new pot filler or prep sink, we like to check the supply for sediment or signs of mineral buildup. If your water pressure seems lower than it should, the culprit is often an old pressure reducing valve (PRV), corroded pipes, or debris in the aerators. Regular water line inspections can help catch these problems before you commit to remodeling work.
Steps to a Smoother Kitchen Plumbing Upgrade
- Assess the current pipe material. Look out for galvanized or cast iron lines that may need replacing.
- Map out supply routes early. Plan for access, avoiding exterior walls when possible.
- Check for adequate water pressure throughout the kitchen. Address pressure issues before installing new fixtures.
- Inspect drainage options for the second sink, including venting and main line connections.
- Don't forget the shutoff valves, these are essential for maintenance and emergencies.
Our team is used to coordinating with general contractors and electricians during remodels, so whether it's a full kitchen overhaul or a targeted upgrade, we work to minimize downtime and prevent costly surprises. If you plan to replace a garbage disposal alongside your sink project, you can see what's involved with our garbage disposal service details.
Adding a pot filler or a second sink isn't just about style, it's about making your kitchen work for your family and your home's particular plumbing history. If you'd like a professional assessment or want to get started on your own Kenilworth kitchen project, call us at 224-537-0229. We're ready to help you make the most of your space.