Hut Upgrade

Hut Upgrade Options - Toilets in the Dorm Block

2020 is probably the time to do some hut upgrades to better accommodate both groups and individual users. when asked the single biggest item from groups is "more toilets in the dorm block". Below is a simple scheme using the currently empty storage room next to the shower room.

As BUilt - 1 Toilet

Above we have the hut as it is now. Note the two hot water cylinders which are currently both plugged in an neither is very well insulated.

Concept - 3 Toilets & Urinal

Keep it Simple, low cost, as much DIY as possible

Basic concept is to try and keep the cost and the work down. So keeping it as simple a conversion as possible. Much of the prep work could be done by members. Get plumber in the key bits.

Key Details

Remove the old toilet and square off the room, with access from the existing storeroom door. We could probably keep the existing toilet functional as we build that wall.
Reduce Hot Water Cylinders to 1 300 - 400L one. Initially we plumb it only for electric.
Toilet Soil pipe is on same wall as existing so should be relatively easy for plumber. If we pull the existing floor up it will be easy to install.
Floor has a lot of holes so re-lay the floor in plywood?
Cold water piping is exposed on face of North wall rather than inside. Will make maintenance much easier
Basins are situated where old tank was so their will be plumbing but probably easier to get new put in.
Likely need to re-install the breather vent which got taken out a few years back.
Room will be relined with plywood, and a back splash put behind the toilets, either Hardiglaze or the aluminium composite panels used in many commercial bathrooms.
Floor will be non slip vinyl.

When

Q1 2020
Plan will be to get going over the late summer and early autumn

Cost

We have some quotes from a local plumber
As well as looking at some other estimates for materials.
So the proposed budget is below.

Bathroom Upgrade

Other Comments

Can we afford it? - YES we have $36,000 in saving and another $5,000 in the current account.
Should we get a grant? Possibly but they can be difficult to get and coordinate. So the committee has chosen to undertake the work ourselves as we can afford it.
This upgrade would be a significant addition for the hut and really help make groups staying easier!